Creating Epic SPORTRAITS: Behind the Scenes with Ray Alvarez

Video Description

Step behind the scenes with photographer Ray Alvarez (@shootwithray) as he takes us on an epic sports portrait session with a young football star. This video is perfect for photographers of all levels who want to master off-camera flash and learn how to create bold, dramatic images that wow clients — especially those interested in creating SPORTRAITS (Sports + Portraits) that look like they belong on the cover of a magazine. Ray starts with a simple one-light setup using the MagMod Reflector XL and a Westcott FJ400 II. By channeling the light forward instead of letting it spill everywhere, he’s able to maximize power and create crisp, controlled light that makes his subject pop. He also shows how to work with natural light — using the sun as a second light source and dialing in his camera settings to perfectly balance sky, sun, and flash for a killer look. Then it’s time to go next level. Ray adds a second flash and brings out two MagBox Pro 36” Strip Softboxes, creating a super edgy, cinematic lighting setup. These strip boxes give incredible control and shape to the light, letting Ray craft moody, high-impact portraits that look like they belong on the cover of a sports magazine. And don’t sleep on the sun — it’s playing a pivotal role as a third light in his setup, giving these images an extra layer of depth and drama. You’ll get a full behind-the-scenes look at Ray’s process — from where he stands to shoot, to how he positions his lights, to the final jaw-dropping results. This is an easy-to-follow, short video packed with inspiration and tips you can use right away on your own shoots. If you’ve been wanting to learn how to: • Use off-camera flash outdoors • Nail your one-light setup • Balance flash with ambient light and the sun • Shape light with the MagMod Reflector XL and MagBox Pro 36” Strips • Capture epic sports portraits that stand out …then this video is for you. 📌 Follow Ray: @shootwithray 📌 Subscribe for more off-camera flash tutorials, lighting tips, and behind-the-scenes shoots every month! 00:00 Intro 01:15 - First Shot 01:50 - Second Shot 02:26 - Third Shot 03:19 - Fourth Shot 04:07 - Fifth Shot 04:39 - Sixth Shot 05:26 - Seventh Shot 05:52 - Eight Shot (Strip Boxes) 06:56 - Ninth Shot 07:20 - Tenth Shot 07:31 - Wrap Up