A photo taken in studio will normally look a lot better than those taken in other locations. Please keep in mind that if you don't have professional lights, chances are that the wrong LIGHTS are helping your photos look bad.
Here are some options to get started.
The best option is natural light.
Place yourself in front of the window (or door) bringing natural light into the room.
If it's behind you, you will look dark.
If it's beside you, or above you, there will be shades and facial imperfections will be
more noticeable.
If you are outdoors, do it before 10 am or after 4pm.
If you are indoors with little or no natural lights, here are some popular options to
improve your results.
Clip-on Light for iPhone or Notebook: This gives you just enough direct light for
your photos or videos. It helps you become familiar with the process of "Body
Mapping", before investing in more professional lights.
https://tinyurl.com/yd9pdfz3
Tripod: This is perfect for holding your iPhone during photos or videos and comes
with an easy to use remote.
https://tinyurl.com/ya7edkgg
Notebook: For body mapping you will need a notebook, so you can number your
photos and make comments: what you are doing right and wrong. You can of
course, take notes digitally, but an old-fashioned notebook normally gives you a
better perspective.
Microphone: You don't need a microphone to any of the exercises in our class,
but since some asked me about a great, inexpensive microphone for videos on
Iphone, here's my recommendation. Clip the mic to your lapel and plug it to your
phone.
https://tinyurl.com/y8mr6yo8
Using "domestic lights":
You can play around with desk lamps or floor/reading lamps if you don't want to
buy anything now. The key is to have one light in front of you, and if possible, two
others, one on each side of your face. If you have been constantly on Zoom,
please consider that there are differences between the lights used for photos and
videos.
Use only white lights for photos. White soft light, not fluorescent.
https://tinyurl.com/ycnbkyhc
If you need to make a video with reading lamps only (regular bulbs you can buy anywhere) , I personally use a white/cold light
in front of me and one of two warm ones, one on each side for some warmth.
In photography, the same warm lights could make most complexions look orange.
Please test what works best for your skin and hair color.
Below are options of more sophisticated lights. You do not need them for our exercises. Just adding this extra piece of information for those wanting to walk the extra mile in the future.
Desktop Ring Light: https://tinyurl.com/ycah9hr4
Selfie Ring Light: https://tinyurl.com/ybnw922h
Photo & Video Flexi light: Even thought it's not a professional light, this can be
very adjustable for both video and photo.
https://tinyurl.com/ycraxc7s
Home studio Lighting kit options:
https://tinyurl.com/y9xvzj8b
https://tinyurl.com/y7tayvzx