I just got Danilos Cartacci book and was amazed at the quality of photos. I was particulary impressed by the backgrounds. Is this done with Photoshop or just smart placement of another light at the bottom?

I learned how to take photos of figures from Bill Horan and Danilos photos look like his. You use colored background paper and a second light to illuminate it, usually from the bottom. The figure is illuminated with a second light or two.

Thanks Jeff!