It's All About Light

Saturday Ambassador

Photography, literally, light writing, is all about light...or lack thereof. Logically, we know this; but what does it mean to you, as a photographer? Obviously, you require at least a modicum of light to capture an image, and you should, of course, ensure that your photographs are properly exposed. However, there is more involved in the process than just the technical aspects; there is also the creative approach to using light.

Sierra Nevada Mountains, Deva Mayorga-Malone, 2013, HDR Composite

 

There are times when hauling around a lot of heavy, bulky equipment seems a chore...and the wind is blowing...and there are no outlets...and so forth. Consider this, however: A bland scene or portrait without the light which defines its character or conveys the proper mood is not likely to impress anyone.

So, what can you do if fabulous natural lighting fails to fall precisely where you need it? Why, you create it, of course! Do not fear to experiment with light, for it is the heart of every great image you will ever produce. It matters not what style you employ or the genre you prefer; light – and how you use it – is paramount to your success as a photographer.

Here are some options for achieving great light:

 

      When the dynamic range (between the deepest shadows and brightest highlights) is vast, try an HDR composite. This involves creating three or more exposures of the same scene, exposing for the highlights, the mid-tones and the shadows. In Photoshop, you can compile them by selecting file > automate > merge to HDR Pro. HDR processing requires some practice, a delicate hand and the discernment to know when it is appropriate. The results can be exceptional, as everything throughout the image is represented with proper exposure and a tremendous amount of detail.

 

      Another option is to create fill with a hand-held flash unit or reflector. When shadows obscure some important detail within a scene, that is both close enough and small enough to be lit in this fashion, fill light can reveal the detail while maintaining the dimensionality imparted by shadows.

 

Lake Powell, Deva Mayorga-Malone, 2013, Digital photograph with fill flash

 

      Light with intent. Employ your strobes, tungsten lights, ambient light, et cetera to create an image with drama or motion, mood or balance.
 

 DVD Spectrum-38, Deva Mayorga-Malone, 2011, Digital photograph with continuous lighting

Photography is a perpetual quest for exquisite light. Pursue it with vigor!

~Saturday Ambassador