Projector Portrait Photography: What You Need to Know Before Getting Started

Using a projector in your photography lets you combine a model with graphics, unique textures, or creative lighting effects. The result is modern, artistic, and often hypnotic. You can project color gradients, geometric shapes, or abstract textures onto both your model and the background, creating a look that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.  

In this article, we cover: 

• what to consider when choosing the right projector for portraits 
• the conditions required for projector photography 
• which themes, textures, and videos work best for projection
• what camera equipment and lenses to use to keep the image clean and sharp  
• how to incorporate styling, wardrobe, and lighting when shooting with a projector 

If you want to try this technique, just turning on the projector and shooting isn’t enough. To get truly impressive results, you need to think through the space, equipment, styling, and the shooting process itself. Most of the prep work can be done in advance, like choosing wardrobe or downloading what you want to project. This lets you fine-tune the lighting on site and focus on the creative part of the shoot.   

Choosing the right projector

Brightness is essential. Look for at least 2,800 lumens, or the image will look faded on the body and background. I rented an Epson EH-TW6250 with 4K resolution. The resolution was excellent, the image was sharp and detailed, but I would have appreciated a larger projection diagonal.  

It’s worth testing the projector beforehand to see how it performs in your specific space so you know exactly what to expect. 

Larger spaces are better

Projectors need distance. These photos were taken in my studio, which is roughly 6×7 meters, and it already felt tight. Ideally, you should be able to project from at least 7 meters from the wall. Even then, I only reached a maximum projection diagonal of five meters. The farther the projector is from the wall, the larger the projected image. 

Also consider movement—if you plan to use animation or change projections, a larger space gives you far more creative freedom.  

The larger the space, the better.

Models and assistants

You need a model and the work can be demanding. Posing in a dark environment and under a moving image isn’t always easy.  

Two assistants are ideal. One manages the projector and focus, while the other helps with the model and styling. If you’re working alone, expect the shoot to take considerably longer.  

If you don’t have an assistant, set the projector up on a tripod and come in with a clear plan.  

In addition to your model, it’s a good idea to have 1-2 assistants. 

Darkness is your friend

The darker the room, the stronger and more defined the projection is. Darken the studio with backdrops, outdoor blinds, blackout curtains, or simply wait until evening. Even small light sources can reduce contrast. 

It’s easy to overlook details like indicator lights on your gear. Cover them so they don’t disrupt the final look. 

Image sources

Use a laptop, tablet, or phone, depending on what your projector supports. Personally, I recommend a laptop with a long HDMI cable and an extension cord so you can move around freely during the session. 

Prepare a folder with the images or videos you want to use so you don’t waste time searching for them while shooting.  

Styling and creative effects

Decide what you want to project, onto what/whom, and what effect you want to achieve. If you want the projection to show clearly on clothing, choose light-colored or white outfits. Black absorbs most of the light. Styling is key—simple dresses or t-shirts tend to work much better than patterned fabrics.  

Even small details, like hairstyles or jewelry, can influence the composition. It’s best to have your creative vision set in advance.  

Images and videos

Abstract textures, graphic patterns, geometric shapes, neon colors, and bold black-and-white contrasts work best. For more dynamic shots, choose video or animation. I downloaded my materials from Pixabay, which has a wide range of free options.  

Have several images ready. Sometimes the model or the atmosphere of the session will inspire you to go in a different direction than you planned. 

Choosing your gear

For this style of shooting, you need a camera with a fast lens (f/1.4–f/2.8) because there isn’t much light. I rented a Sony Alpha A1 with a Sigma 24–70 mm f/2.8 ART zoom lens. This combination gave me flexibility in focal length and fast optics. 

A fast lens makes it easier to work even in situations where the projector isn’t very powerful. It can also help to raise the ISO, but keep in mind that noise will be more noticeable in the final photo. 

Additional lighting (optional)

A small continuous light or subtle flash can bring out the model’s facial features and add depth. However, for this project, I relied solely on the projector because it gave the photos a cleaner, more raw look.  

Don’t hesitate to experiment. Combining additional lighting with projections can produce completely different results.  

FAQs

Is a standard office projector enough? Yes, if the brightness is at least 2,800 lumens. Anything weaker will produce a faint or indistinct projection on the model and background. 

How much space do I need? The more space, the better. Ideally, you should have at least 6-7 meters between the projector and the wall so the image can be large enough for both the projector and model to move. 

Does it have to be completely dark? No, but the less ambient light, the more contrast and clarity you get from the projection. It’s a good idea to remove any distracting light sources, including window light and LED indicators. 

Which motifs work best? Abstract textures, geometric shapes, neon colors, high-contrast black-and-white designs, and slow animations. Highly detailed scenes or dense photos often get lost when projected.   

What lens should I use? A fast lens between f/1.4–f/2.8. Since projectors don’t emit much light, a fast lens allows you to shoot without pushing ISO too high.