The challenge
The conditions on the day could hardly have been more different from the desired final look. The forest was dark, overcast, and illuminated by flat morning light. Instead of accepting the conditions, the team wanted to transform the scene into something much more dramatic: warm highlights, cooler shadows, rich colors, and the feeling of a late-afternoon sunset. At the same time, the rider would be moving at high speed, requiring precise timing and enough flash power to freeze every detail sharply.
The goal
One common challenge when using flash outdoors is creating images that feel disconnected from their surroundings. The subject becomes brightly lit while the background falls into darkness, resulting in an artificial "flashy" look. For this project, the objective was different. The lighting needed to:
- Freeze fast-moving action
- Maintain the atmosphere of the forest
- Create separation without looking artificial
- Add depth and contrast
- Remain lightweight and easy to carry between locations
Why the Octamini 50?
From the beginning, mobility was a priority. The team planned to move continuously through the forest, following the rider down the mountain with only two lights and one camera. Every piece of equipment needed to justify its place in the setup.
This is where the new Octamini 50 proved invaluable.
Its compact size made it easy to transport and reposition quickly, while its light quality delivered far more than its dimensions would suggest.
Key advantages of the Octamini 50
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- Fast setup and breakdown
- White interior for even light distribution
- Directional yet naturally soft light quality
- Optional diffusers for additional softness
- Ideal for location, sports, portrait, and outdoor photography
The white interior creates a unique balance between contrast and softness. The light remains focused enough to shape the subject and add definition, while still feeling natural and integrated into the environment.
Why Stelos was essential
The broncolor Stelos 800 provided:
- Extremely short flash durations
- Precise color consistency
- Fast recycling times
- Reliable performance throughout the shoot
These characteristics allowed the team to freeze every movement with sharp detail while maintaining consistent color and exposure from frame to frame.
When shooting action, every second counts. Fast recycling ensured that no critical moment was missed between shots.
The lighting setup
Key light: broncolor Stelos 800 + Octamini 50
The Octamini 50 acted as the main light source, illuminating the rider while creating shape, depth, and separation from the surroundings.
Rim light: broncolor Stelos 800 + standard reflector + CTO gel
A second Stelos unit was positioned behind the rider to create a warm rim light, enhancing separation and reinforcing the sunset-inspired mood.
Remote control: broncolor RFS 3
The RFS 3 allowed fast and easy adjustments, even when lights were positioned in difficult-to-reach locations.
Behind the scenes
One of the biggest advantages of the setup was its simplicity.
With only two lights, one camera, and a compact modifier, the team could move quickly between locations without sacrificing creative control.
The combination of portability and performance allowed the crew to stay focused on the rider and the moment rather than managing equipment.
The results
The final images combine sharp action with rich color, strong separation, and a natural integration of flash and ambient light.
The rider remains the clear focus of the frame, while the forest retains its presence, atmosphere, and depth.
The project demonstrates how a compact modifier like the Octamini 50 can deliver professional-level results even in demanding outdoor environments.
Equipment used
Lighting
broncolor Stelos 800 Kit
broncolor Octamini 50
broncolor standard reflector
broncolor RFS 3
Camera
Sony A7R V
Credits
Photography: César Oliveira Photography
Assistant / BTS Photography: David Teixeira
Photography Assistant: Catarina Rocha
BTS Video: Filipe Mota
Key takeaway
The Octamini 50 proves that portability and light quality do not have to be compromises. Combined with the speed and precision of the Stelos system, it offers a powerful solution for photographers who need to move fast while maintaining complete creative control over their light.
