Photo · People · Mixed light

Window-light portrait

Lens Tamron 17-70mm F2.8 Di III-A VC RXD
Focal length 50–70mm
Mode A
Aperture f/2.8
Shutter Auto (min 1/125)
ISO auto 100–1600
Autofocus AF-C, Human eye
Drive Single
Stabilization VC on

The constraint is quality of light, and a window is the softbox you already own. Place your subject near a window with the sun off it, turn them toward the light for even, flattering illumination — or across it for shape and shadow. Shoot aperture priority at f/2.8 and 50–70mm to isolate the face against the room, let Auto ISO ride low near a bright window, and put AF-C with eye recognition on the near eye.

Watch out for the light falling off faster than you expect. A window is soft but directional, so the shadow side of the face can drop very dark — step the subject closer to the glass for softer, or add a simple reflector (even a white wall or sheet) to lift the shadows. Watch the catchlights in the eyes: when they glow, the light is landing where it should.