How to Use a Scrim to Create Soft, Controlled Portrait Lighting

August 24, 2026

Understanding how to use a scrim can transform the way you light portraits. In this PhotoVision lesson, Daniel Norton demonstrates how a scrim creates soft, natural-looking light while giving photographers greater flexibility than traditional lighting modifiers. You'll learn how changing the position of the light behind the scrim affects contrast, softness, and light direction, as well as practical techniques for shaping light in the studio. 

Whether you're working with strobes or simulating natural window light, this lesson will help you create more intentional, controlled portraits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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