This powerful lighting simulation software lets photographers and filmmakers build virtual sets, position real-world gear, and pre-visualize lighting scenes in a realistic 3D environment — all before you touch your camera. And now, you can save 15% when you use my link and enter coupon code JOHN-15 at checkout.

Exclusive Discount: Click + Use Code JOHN-15

To get the 15% discount, you must click here and use the code JOHN-15 during checkout. This supports my channel and helps keep tutorials like this coming — thank you!

See It In Action

In the video above, I walk through all the major features, build a sample lighting setup, and demonstrate how to export detailed set plans you can use on your next shoot.

Why Lighting Simulation Software Matters

Lighting can make or break a photo or video shoot. But studio time is expensive, models are on the clock, and clients expect perfection. That’s where simulation tools like Set.a.light 3D shine. Instead of wasting valuable time adjusting lights on set, you can experiment virtually and arrive fully prepared. This means fewer surprises, faster shoots, and more creative control.

Whether you’re teaching lighting concepts, planning a commercial production, or just trying to understand how light works, Set.a.light 3D gives you the ability to test and refine ideas in a safe, flexible, and endlessly repeatable environment. No gear? No problem. The software includes a wide range of lighting equipment, modifiers, models, and backdrops to let you work through creative setups before you even pick up your camera.

🚀 What’s New in Version 3?

Version 3 is a massive upgrade from previous versions — both in terms of realism and functionality. Here are the biggest changes:

• Model Morphing: Blend characters to create infinite combinations. Adjust height, weight, facial features, and body shape — even pregnancy and muscle tone — to match real-world clients or subjects.
• Expanded Gear Library: Includes new cameras, tripods, continuous lights, softboxes, strip lights, modifiers, V-Flats, and even jibs. You can now build sets with familiar tools — from photo tripods to large C-stands with booms.
• Realistic Posing and Clothing: Choose from dozens of new wardrobe options, change hair and makeup, and use preset or custom poses to mimic your real-world workflow.
• Advanced Lighting Tools: Use a built-in virtual light meter, apply gels, simulate haze, or add background props for more complete visualizations. You can even feather light, grid modifiers, or tweak power settings exactly as you would on set.
• Export Tools: Export set plans with lighting diagrams, camera settings, light positions, and packing lists in high-res PDFs — ideal for sharing with assistants or clients.

🎥 Who Is Set.a.light 3D V3 For?

This isn’t just for high-end commercial photographers. It’s a must-have for:

• Portrait photographers who want to master studio lighting
• Event shooters looking to plan multi-light setups in unfamiliar locations
• Filmmakers who need to visualize lighting and camera moves
• Educators teaching lighting fundamentals or advanced concepts
• Content creators building repeatable lighting setups for YouTube or commercial work

The software is available in three versions — Basic, Studio, and Cinema. I personally use the Cinema version, which adds even more tools for hybrid and video shooters. But even the Studio version offers incredible value, including full 3D environments, a light meter, continuous lighting, and export capabilities.

🧠 How I Use Set.a.light 3D In My Workflow

I use Set.a.light 3D in three major ways:

1. Pre-Production Planning: Before a shoot, I build the set virtually to solve lighting challenges, test gear combinations, and refine compositions. This has saved me hours of trial and error on real sets.
2. Client Communication: I use exports to share lighting diagrams and visuals with clients and assistants. Everyone understands the vision before we arrive on set, and shoots go faster with fewer questions.
3. Education & Content Creation: I use the software in YouTube tutorials, lighting handbooks, and my digital downloads. It’s especially helpful for creating consistent, clean visuals that show lighting setups from multiple angles.

🔖 Set.a.light 3D Coupon Code & Link

Ready to get started? Use the link below and apply coupon code JOHN-15 at checkout to save 15% on Set.a.light 3D V3:

CLICK HERE: https://www.elixxier.com/

THEN USE THE Discount Code: JOHN-15

Note: You must use both the link and the code for the discount to apply. This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission — at no cost to you — if you make a purchase.

🛠 Additional Tools to Level Up Your Photography

• Digital Downloads — Lighting handbooks, presets, and posing guides
• Recommended Gear — Lights, modifiers, cameras, and stands I use and trust

📈 Final Thoughts: Is Set.a.light 3D Worth It?

If you’re serious about photography or filmmaking, Set.a.light 3D V3 is an investment in your workflow. It helps you create with intention, saves time on set, and gives you a professional edge whether you’re shooting for clients or creating personal work. The 15% discount makes it an even better value — especially when you consider how much time and frustration it can save you.

Get started with the software today, and unlock smarter lighting before you ever touch your camera.

The post Set.a.light 3D V3 Review + 15% Discount Code for Photographers & Filmmakers appeared first on Chicago Photographer & Director of Photography.

Are you looking for a way to improve your lighting skills without the need to book expensive studio time? With Set.a.light 3D, you can now simulate working with studio lighting right from your computer. This advanced lighting simulation software allows you to plan photoshoots, visualize setups, and even create diagrams to share your creative ideas with clients—all from the comfort of your own home. In this post, you will learn how Set.a.light 3D can enhance your lighting techniques, explore its powerful features, and find an exclusive Set.a.light 3D discount coupon to get started.

Why Set.a.light 3D is a Game-Changer for Photographers

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, Set.a.light 3D offers an incredible opportunity to enhance your lighting setups. It’s a virtual lighting studio software that helps you design, test, and refine your lighting configurations before stepping into a real studio. Imagine having all the tools you need to set up your ideal photoshoot without moving heavy equipment until the exact shoot day—saving you both time and effort.

Set.a.light 3D allows you to experiment with different light sources, such as flash and continuous lighting, in a fully customizable virtual space. This tool has been instrumental in my own process, helping me resolve lighting issues before shoot day. With advanced simulation features, I can create multiple setups, test angles, and decide on modifiers—all crucial to ensuring the final photoshoot goes off without a hitch.

Get an Exclusive 15% Set.a.light 3D Discount with Code JOHN-15 - Click Below!

Start Your Journey Today!

My Experience Using Set.a.light 3D to Improve My Lighting Setups

One of the first times I used Set.a.light 3D was to recreate a classic old Hollywood-style shoot. I had seen behind-the-scenes images of a famous studio setup in Paris and wanted to capture that specific lighting style. The software allowed me to place virtual lights, adjust their positioning, and fine-tune their settings until I achieved the desired look. This was an eye-opener—it saved me countless hours that I would have otherwise spent experimenting in a physical studio. Thanks to Set.a.light 3D, I could resolve most lighting issues virtually, giving me the confidence to step into the studio knowing exactly how to achieve my vision.

Another key benefit of Set.a.light 3D for me was during the planning of a commercial shoot. I had only ten minutes to execute multiple lighting setups, which would have been incredibly challenging without pre-planning. By using Set.a.light 3D, I was able to work out the entire setup in advance, export detailed lighting diagrams, and share them with my assistant. This kind of preparation allowed us to work more efficiently and gave me peace of mind, especially when dealing with tight schedules.

Perhaps most importantly, I also used Set.a.light 3D to model and layout my new studio before even moving in. This allowed me to customize every detail—from where to place equipment to how the space would flow for client sessions. Being able to “see” my studio before physically setting it up was invaluable, and it ensured that I used the space efficiently from day one.

Set.a.light 3D not only enhances my photoshoots but has also improved my ability to teach lighting. Whether I’m creating mood boards, exporting set plans, or explaining a concept to a client, this software is an invaluable part of my workflow.

A Lighting simulation showcasing complex shadow play using multiple light sources in Set.a.light 3D.

Key Features of Set.a.light 3D

Set.a.light 3D is packed with powerful features that make it invaluable for any photographer. Here are some of the highlights:

• • Lighting Simulation: With over 50 different light sources, including strobes and speedlights, Set.a.light 3D allows you to simulate various lighting setups. The software uses real light data to replicate how lights behave in the real world, offering precise previews of light fall-off, shadow behavior, and reflections (Set.a.light).

 

• • Room Customization: You can adjust the virtual studio’s size and wall color, and save your customized studio space as a template. This flexibility is ideal for tailoring your setup for small home studios or expansive professional shoots, making sure you’re always prepared (Set.a.light).

 

• • Camera Simulation in Real Time: The virtual camera in Set.a.light 3D lets you adjust crop factor, aperture, and focal length, providing a live preview that changes in real time. This gives you complete control over the technical settings of your lighting and camera to ensure perfect results every time (Set.a.light).

 

• • Film & Continuous Light Support: Perfect for hybrid shoots, Set.a.light 3D Studio allows you to seamlessly integrate both flash and continuous light in your setup. This flexibility is invaluable when working on both film and photography projects, enabling the testing of complex lighting combinations without limitations.

 

• • High-Resolution Rendering: Render your lighting setups in up to 4K resolution for client presentations and storyboards—ideal for showing clients the creative vision before shoot day. These high-quality visuals are a significant asset when pitching concepts to corporate clients or creative directors.

 

A A continuous lighting setup using Pavotubes, showing how Set.a.light 3D seamlessly integrates continuous lighting for futuristic shoots.

Choosing Between Set.a.light 3D Basic and Studio Versions

Set.a.light 3D comes in two versions: BASIC and STUDIO. Both versions cater to different expertise levels and offer distinct functionalities. Click here and Use Code JOHN-15 to get an additional 15% Set.a.light 3D discount.

Basic Version ($71.40, discounted from $119)

The Basic version is a great starting point for those new to photography lighting. It includes all the essential tools for simple lighting setups and allows users to explore photography lighting techniques at a lower price. However, it lacks features like continuous light support, which limits its use to simpler projects. This version is also an excellent option for amateurs who want to start developing their lighting skills without breaking the bank.

The Basic version includes access to a community feature, where users can share and download lighting setups. This resource provides inspiration and a hands-on learning experience, especially beneficial for beginners looking to learn from seasoned professionals.

Studio Version ($143.65, discounted from $229)

The Studio version, in contrast, is designed for professionals and ambitious amateurs who want more control and creative freedom. It includes features such as unlimited flashes, film and continuous light, color temperature adjustment, and multicamera support, making it ideal for more complex commercial shoots.

The ability to render up to 4K, export detailed set plans with custom branding, and even incorporate your own 3D objects makes the Studio version a powerhouse tool for advanced projects that require the utmost attention to detail and client presentation.

Comparing Set.a.light 3D Basic vs. Studio Versions

Feature	Basic Version	Studio Version
Price (Discounted with code JOHN-15)	$71.40 (with my code, originally $119)	$143.65 (with my code, originally $229)
Room Adjustments	Three preset studio sizes (small, medium, large)	Customizable studio dimensions to match any size or layout
Flash & Lighting Support	Supports up to 5 flashes simultaneously	Unlimited flashes, plus film & continuous light options
Multicamera Support	Not available	Supports multiple photo and video cameras for complex projects
Color Temperature Adjustment	Not available	Adjustable color temperature for lights (2400K-10000K)
Gobo Projector	Not available	Available, with 20 gobo templates (add your own templates as well)
Picture Wall	Up to 7 picture walls (JPGs only, no transparency)	Unlimited picture walls (JPG & PNG supported)
Set Plan Export	Export available, but logo customization not supported	Set plan export with the option to add your own logo
Rendering Quality	Renderings up to 1920px	Renderings up to 3840px (4K resolution)
Access to Community	Yes, full access to community resources	Yes, full access to community resources
Customization Options	Limited to predefined lighting setups and fewer customization options	Unlimited customization, including the ability to create and save unique setups

 

Customer Testimonials About Set.a.light 3D

Here are what other photographers have to say about using Set.a.light 3D:

“I’ve had a chance to spend a couple of hours with set.a.light 3D V2 and I have to say it seems pretty damn incredible! I’ve thrown some very complicated lighting at it and I can confirm that it’s handled all of the lighting as it would in the real world. Very impressive indeed.” – Jake Hicks, via jakehicksphotography.com

“I’m trying out the demo now. It’s so much fun! And what better way is there to learn something when it’s even fun? This will really help me to grow as a photographer.” – Dirk Weitzel, via dforum.de

“I’ve been using the studio version for some time now and can only tell good things about it. I’ve learned a lot. I now show a sample picture to my model, so she knows what to do – until she’s ready with all of her stuff, I built up the light setup and we’re able to shoot beautiful pictures for so much longer than in the past.” – Dirk S, via psdtutorials.de

Frequently Asked Questions About Set.a.light 3D

What Is Set.a.light 3D and Who Is It For?

Set.a.light 3D is the world’s first virtual lighting simulation software. It allows photographers and filmmakers to set up lighting in advance, realistically simulate image results, and visualize ideas before actually executing them in the real studio. It’s an essential tool for anyone from aspiring photographers to seasoned professionals who want to improve efficiency and creativity without the trial-and-error approach of traditional shoots (Set.a.light).

How Can Set.a.light 3D Improve My Photography?

Set.a.light 3D allows you to experiment with lighting setups, camera angles, and even model poses before the day of the shoot, making your preparation highly efficient. You can also export lighting plans as detailed diagrams, reducing the uncertainty of on-site setup and ensuring that your creative vision is perfectly realized.

What Are the Minimum System Requirements?

For Windows, a Microsoft® Windows® 11/10/8/7 (64-bit) with at least an Intel® Core i3/i5/i7/i9 processor, 8GB RAM (16GB recommended), and 2GB VRAM is required. For macOS, any Mac model from 2012 or newer with at least 8GB RAM and 2GB VRAM will work (As of October 2024 Set.a.light).

How can I get a Set.a.light 3D discount?

To get a set.a.light 3D discount, click here and use code ‘JOHN-15’ for 15% off your purchase.

 

Ready to Master Lighting?

Set.a.light 3D is the perfect tool to elevate your photography and videography skills, allowing you to visualize, plan, and execute your creative lighting ideas like never before. Whether you’re a beginner just starting to experiment or a professional looking for advanced features, Set.a.light 3D has a version that fits your needs.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your lighting setups. Click here and Use Code JOHN-15 to get an additional 15% Set.a.light 3D discount on either the Basic or Studio version. Make your lighting ideas a reality today!

The post Boost Your Photography Lighting with Set.a.light 3D Discount and Coupon Code appeared first on Chicago Photographer & Director of Photography.

A QuickBooks Alternative That Transformed My Photography Business

If you’re like me, managing a photography business requires wearing a lot of hats—photographer, client manager, accountant, and more. When I realized that I needed a more efficient way to manage all these roles, I started looking for tools that could streamline my operations. That’s when I discovered 17hats which transformed my business. Not only did it help me manage clients, contracts, and scheduling, but it also provided a powerful alternative to QuickBooks. Use my 17hats referral code pcxdfctwkw or click here to get 50% off your first year and start streamlining your business today.

Save 50% on your first year of 17hats!

17hats Referral Code

Why I Switched from QuickBooks to 17hats Using a Referral Code

I had been using QuickBooks Desktop for years to manage my finances, but everything changed when QuickBooks disabled key functions, pushing me to upgrade to a costly monthly subscription. That’s when I found 17hats. Their top-level membership replaced QuickBooks for my needs, and offered a whole lot more features than Intuit’s accounting software.

How 17hats Streamlined My Photography Business

The true power of 17hats lies in its automation features, which have transformed how we manage clients and streamline operations. On our website’s contact form, potential clients select from one of seven options via a dropdown menu. This triggers an automated response that delivers FAQs for simpler jobs like headshots or sends a questionnaire for more complex projects, such as event and commercial shoots. This ensures that leads are responded to immediately and allows us to gather the necessary information to create custom quotes.

From there, we can easily send out a quote, an electronically signed contract, and generate invoices, all with minimal manual input. This automates the onboarding process, ensuring everything flows smoothly from the first point of contact to securing the job.
For fulfillment, 17hats has been a game-changer. My virtual assistant follows clear workflows to complete each step of the project—from initial communication to gallery prep, retouching, and final delivery. Tasks like sending prescripted emails to clients, gathering feedback, or managing photo deliverables are automated through the workflow. My involvement is streamlined down to reviewing the final images before they are sent to clients. This process allows us to manage multiple projects simultaneously, making it much easier to scale while maintaining high-quality standards. Once the photos are delivered, 17hats automates a follow-up survey, prompting clients to leave reviews on Google or Yelp if they rate us highly.
Check out my headshot photography rates page and click booking calendar to also see how I integrated 17 hats into my website.

Why 17hats Is a Great Alternative to QuickBooks

For creative professionals, 17hats is a comprehensive tool. Here’s 17hats is the perfect solution for my business:

• All-in-One Platform: CRM, scheduling, invoicing, and project management in one system.
• Automations: Save time by automating client communication, a feature QuickBooks lacks.
• Pricing: The Premier package is more affordable, especially with 50% off using my 17hats referral code (link).

Comparing 17hats Plans and Pricing

17hats offers three membership levels—Essentials, Standard, and Premier. With my 17hats referral code, you’ll get 50% off your first year by clicking here. Here’s how the normal pricing and plans compare before the discount:

Pricing (before using my 17hats referral code) and Feature: Essentials, Standard, and Premier Plans

Whether you’re a freelancer just starting out or a growing business in need of advanced tools, 17hats has three distinct plans tailored to different business needs. Here’s a breakdown of the features and normal pricing for each option:

Essentials Plan ($15/month, paid annually)

The Essentials Plan is perfect for freelancers or small business owners who are just beginning to systematize their operations. For $150 per year, it offers a solid foundation of essential tools to keep your business organized without overwhelming you with complex features.

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Manage all your client information, project details, and communications in one place. Keep track of each client’s status and interaction history.
• 1 Lead Capture Form: A simple form that can be embedded into your website to capture client inquiries. The information is automatically added to your 17hats account for easy follow-up.
• Online Scheduling: Clients can schedule meetings or appointments directly through a basic online scheduling tool. This feature syncs with your calendar, reducing the back-and-forth of appointment-setting.
• Basic Workflow Automation: Set up simple task lists to keep track of your projects, helping you stay organized without the need for manual follow-ups.
• Document Management: Create and send invoices, contracts, and quotes, streamlining your paperwork.

This plan is great if you’re focused on getting organized and need basic client management, scheduling, and billing tools.

Standard Plan ($30/month, paid annually)

The Standard Plan, 17hats’ most popular option, is designed for growing businesses that need more robust automation and branding options. For $300 annually, it offers more customization and workflow management tools to help you scale your operations.

• All Essentials Plan Features: Enjoy everything included in the Essentials Plan, plus more features to help you grow your business.
• 3 Lead Capture Forms: Expand your lead generation with multiple forms. For example, use separate forms for headshot inquiries, event photography, and commercial projects. This allows for better organization and tailored workflows.
• Brand Customization: Add your company’s branding (logo, colors, fonts) to documents like invoices and contracts, giving your business a more professional appearance.
• Advanced Online Scheduling: Offer clients more advanced scheduling features, like automated appointment reminders, reducing no-shows and last-minute cancellations.
• Advanced Workflow Automation: Set up more complex workflows that trigger specific tasks or client communications based on actions, such as a signed contract or paid invoice.
• Basic Email Automation: Set up email templates and automate responses to clients based on their interactions, freeing you from repetitive tasks.

The Standard Plan is perfect for businesses ready to streamline their client onboarding and take advantage of more automated workflows and branding capabilities.

Premier Plan ($60/month, paid annually)

The Premier Plan is ideal for established businesses with higher volumes of clients and more complex workflows. At $600 per year, it offers advanced automation and flexibility, making it a powerful solution for companies that need to scale without sacrificing client service quality.

• All Standard Plan Features: Includes everything from the Essentials and Standard Plans, plus even more tools to streamline your business.
• Unlimited Lead Capture Forms: Perfect for businesses with multiple service offerings. You can create as many lead capture forms as needed for various types of inquiries, each triggering its own tailored workflow.
• Advanced Workflow Triggers: Automate your business on a deeper level. For example, once a client signs a contract, you can automatically trigger the next steps, like invoicing or a questionnaire. These triggers allow you to automate up to 80% of your client management process.
• Advanced Reporting: Access detailed reports that help you analyze your business performance, from revenue growth to client acquisition trends.
• Document Templates with If/Then Logic: Create smarter questionnaires, contracts, and other documents that change dynamically based on client inputs. This feature is particularly useful for service-based businesses offering multiple packages or customizations.
• Priority Support: Get access to priority customer support for quick resolutions to any issues you encounter.

The Premier Plan is ideal for established businesses or those that need the power of full automation, customized workflows, and advanced client communication.

Which Plan Is Right for You?

When comparing 17hats’ plans to other software like QuickBooks, it becomes clear that 17hats offers more than just bookkeeping. With features like CRM, lead capture, scheduling, and workflow automation, 17hats provides comprehensive business management at a lower cost than many other software solutions. While QuickBooks focuses primarily on accounting, 17hats delivers a full suite of tools to manage your entire business from client acquisition to final delivery, making it an excellent choice for freelancers and small businesses who want to stay organized without breaking the bank.
If you’re just starting out or need basic organization, the Essentials Plan is a solid, affordable option. As your business grows, the Standard Plan offers more robust automation and branding options. For larger businesses or those ready to scale, the Premier Plan gives you full control and automation across all aspects of your business.

Why You Should Use My 17hats Referral Code for 50% Off

If you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or creative professional looking to streamline your operations and get more done in less time, 17hats is a fantastic option. And with my 17hats referral code, you’ll get 50% off your first year by clicking here, making this an even more affordable choice for managing your business.

Watch: How 17hats Transforms Business Management

See how 17hats can change your workflow by watching the video below:

Conclusion: Why 17hats and Its Referral Code Was the Right Move for Me

Switching from QuickBooks to 17hats has transformed how I manage my photography business. Its CRM, automation, and scheduling features make running my business smoother than ever. If you’re looking for a QuickBooks alternative that simplifies everything, use my referral code to get 50% off your first year and start streamlining your business now.

The post 17hats Referral Code: A QuickBooks Alternative That Transformed My Photography Business appeared first on Chicago Photographer & Director of Photography.