How to create a high key, soft light effect using the Lastolite HiLite — a professional light modifier used in studio and on-location shoots.
Lastolite Hilite by Manfrotto (6×7 feet) Useful links: Amazon (smaller size 5x7feet)
Camera body: Canon 5d M4 https://amzn.to/3tVqRjZ
Canon lens 50mm 1.2 https://amzn.to/3pgdBTl
Canon lens 24-70 2.8 https://amzn.to/2Zc3TqL
White balance X rite colour checker https://amzn.to/2Zl2n5r
Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which does not affects the buyer.
—- Link to an interesting video where model is photographed inside Lasolite Hilite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiEj6anNmus Website: http://www.aniaphoto.co.uk
UPDATE:
I purchased a large white vinyl flooring (I can just roll it away and hide behind sofa) I love my “white” setup. Also much less editing than my smaller studio space with cardboard-type backdrop.
Lastolite HiLite (Manfrotto) High Key Background – Creating a high key lighting
The Lastolite HiLite by Manfrotto has become one of my favourite tools for creating clean, high-key portraits while still maintaining a soft, natural light feel. At first glance, it looks like a simple white background system — but when lit correctly from behind, it transforms into a beautifully even, glowing backdrop that mimics airy daylight.
What I love most about the HiLite is the control it gives you. By placing lights inside the background itself, you eliminate harsh shadows and achieve a seamless white without the need for excessive editing. At the same time, you can light your subject separately with softboxes or window-style lighting to maintain dimension and softness on skin tones.
For maternity and family photography, especially, this setup allows me to create bright, timeless images that feel fresh and organic rather than clinical or overly “flashy.” The result is a high-key aesthetic that still feels gentle and flattering — closer to natural window light than traditional studio flash.
It’s portable, reliable, and surprisingly efficient for studio workflows — particularly when you want consistency without sacrificing softness.
Pros & Cons – Lastolite HiLite (Manfrotto)
Pros
✔ Beautiful, even high-key background
The internal lighting design allows you to achieve a clean white backdrop with minimal shadowing, reducing editing time significantly.
✔ Natural light feel
When paired with soft front lighting, the HiLite creates an airy, window-light look that feels soft and flattering — ideal for newborn and family portraits.
✔ Time-saving workflow
Because the background lights from within, you don’t need multiple background lights positioned around the studio. This simplifies your setup and keeps sessions flowing smoothly.
✔ Portable and foldable design
It packs down relatively compactly, making it practical for photographers who work in home studios or need flexibility.
Cons
✖ Requires space behind the subject
You’ll need enough room to avoid light spill and maintain subject separation.
✖ Proper lighting setup is essential
If not exposed correctly, the background can look grey or overblown — understanding light balance is key.
✖ Investment cost
It’s not the cheapest modifier, but for high-key specialists, it’s a long-term studio tool.
