I tried some different lighting today. Used a style known as clamshell lighting. Consists of one large soft box (main light) directly above the camera and facing down at about 45 degrees. A 2nd smaller soft box acted as the fill light also directly in front of camera but lower and facing up at about 45 degrees. The catch light in her eyes comes from this light.
This produces a flat light with only soft shadows on the sides of the face and under the chin. Perfect for us older folks.
I did put another light on the background to make it white. It’s all about the light (and the expression).
This style of a head shot is strongly influenced by Peter Hurley. The lighting is general lighting principles.