The problem with ambient light is that it is uncontrollable. We can modify and attempt to alter the ambient light however we typically do not have control over intensity and colour and are ultimately finding work arounds to achieve the desired outcome.
Studio lighting refers to light that can be controlled. Typically, in intensity and then modified with attachment to the light head which can act to soften, direct, shape and colour the light.
In photography, we tend to use flash or 'strobe' light, which charge capacitors and then quickly dup the energy into a flash tube creating a very quick and strong burst of light.
There are many different brands of lights, popular ones include Bowens, Elinchrom, Profoto, Godox, Mets, Lastolite and Phottix though countless more exist and cover most price points.
Most brands tend to have proprietary systems which attach light modifiers to their flash head however modifiers are universal in function.
Please click each thumbnail and hover over the picture to see their descriptions.
With studio lighting you can also have as many light sources are your equipment allows. Each with different intensities and shapes. As strobe have a much greater intensity of light you can shoot at almost any camera setting allowing you to change settings for artistic purpose as opposed to compensating to gain correct exposure.