Digital Photography Lighting Techniques

1

Unique Digital Photography Light Techniques!

Digital photography light is precisely the same as for film cameras. AND it can be ANY source of light! Or not even a light at all! Once you've learned to control one source of light, you're set! They all work the same.

Let's get into the basics...

Most studio photographers like to employ a 3 light set-up for the vast majority of their portrait work. This is the most common set and should be the 1st one you master.

But one photography light idea that many beginners/amateurs don't realize - an illumination source doesn't inevitably need to be an actual studio strobe. Or even an actual light for that matter.

Naturally we would all like to own the latest studio strobes with all the various options, but it just isn't necessary. Consider...

The first source of illumionation in a 3 light set is known as the main (or the key) light. This is the one that you establish first. You will take your meter reading from this light and set all your other lights based on the key light. But, it doesn't have to be a studio strobe.

The main light source could be the sun, it could be one of those mechanic's work lights (the ones you see hanging from a hook under the hood of a car), you could even employ your car headlights or even use a simple flashlight.

Put your pocketbook away and learn the lighting basics with whatever light is around. Once you acquire a thorough knowledge of light, how it works and how to manipulate it - THEN - is the time to buy expensive studio strobes.

Position your key light to be around 45 degrees between the subject and your camera's position. Then position your key light to be about 45 degrees above the subject. This will create a shadow on one side of the face. That's what you want - that's what makes your model appear 3D rather than flat and lifeless.

If the light source is fixed - like the sun - clearly you would have to move the model into the correct place rather than moving the light.

The next light source is called the fill light. It is used to lighten the shadow side of the face, so that facial details are visible. It can be a studio flash, an on camera flash, a mirror or other type of reflector.

Place your second light either behind and above the camera placement or opposite to the key light. The intensity of the light is where your creative vision takes over .

The third light source is the separation light and is generally positioned in back of the subject. It is used to light the background to separate the model so they don't merge with the background. Or the light is turned around and used to light the back of their body (rim light) or their hair (hair light). The 3rd light too can be a light, reflector or mirror.

A while back I saw a video by the late Dean Collins that demonstrated how - by strategically using mirrors and other reflectors...1 main light source can be the only illumination for a highly complex 5 light set! Keep in mind, in your studies of digital photography light, don't overlook the fact that it doesn't need to be a light at all!

About the Author

To learn more about photography, get your FREE copy of my ebook:

"7 Secrets To Creating Stunning Photos!"

Mastering <a href="http://www.OnTargetPhotoTraining.com">digital photography light</a> doesn't have to be difficult!

Check it out Here: <a href="http://www.OnTargetPhotoTraining.com">http://www.OnTargetPhotoTraining.com</a>

Photography Lighting Techniques : Lighting for Digital Photography


digital photography lighting techniques5
digital photography lighting techniques5
digital photography lighting techniques5

Digital Photography Lighting Techniques

1

What are the Natural Sources of Digital Photography Lighting?

Digital photography can be maximized to its full potential once you have the perfect camera, the proper color and the perfect lighting. Even if you have with you the latest model of digital camera, your photos will not turn out great if you are not making use of the right strategies in getting them right

Experts in digital photography have come to realize that the digital camera is only one of the things you need to have great pictures. There are also other factors to consider so that you will not be disappointed by the result. One of them is the digital photography lighting.

Have you ever seen digital photos that seem to blur and indistinguishable? There are a lot of cases like this. Even if you try and edit them using Photoshop or any other software, you cannot seem to get the desired lighting you want.

This is because you have not considered having the proper lighting when the photo was taken. You were thinking that the camera and its features will be able to do that for you. Yes it can. But they may not reach your expectations.

The secret to getting that perfect picture is to do it right the first time. By doing it right, it simply means that you need to think about how well or bad the lighting is in the process of taking the photo.

Below are some of the natural sources of digital photography lighting that will make your photos look terrific.

1. After sunrise and before sunset

It is during these times that photography is at its peak. Meaning, photos turn out great when they are shoot after sunrise and before sunset.

Why is this so?

This is because the orange color that appears in the sky during these times adds to the colors that your digital camera is capable. Most of the time, some photos appear dull and unrealistic when they are printed because of the representation of the colors when it is printed.

The color of the environment can add a sort of brightness to your photos. In addition, it will make it easy for you to edit them on your computer once you feel that you want to put in some combination in the natural setting of the picture.

2. Sunlight

Sunlight is one form of lighting that is very effective once you know how to modify your shots. Keep in mind that you are not capable of altering the brightness of the sun or the shadows that it can create on your photos.

It is up for you to choose the best position wherein you can make the most of the light that is emitted by the sun. Work them to your advantage. Try on different angles and see if they look perfect once frozen.

You can also make the most of the drop shadows that is created by the sunlight. Just make sure that they will not blur your photo. Fro minor adjustments, you can just edit the photos straight from your computer.

Shooting digital photos is not only about having the most advanced digital camera. It is also about looking for strategies and techniques that will benefit your shots. Try to shoot your photos with the perfect lighting and you will see that you do not need to edit or add some more colors in them.

About the Author

Aura Backdrops is a supplier of the highest quality muslin backdrops, photography backgrounds, digital photography backdrops,digital photography backgrounds,fantasy cloth and portrait backdrops since 2004, and is dedicated to provide you with the customer service you deserve. Our high quality photography backdrops and backgrounds will give you the professional look that your studio, portrait and photography needs.

Lighting for Photography : Lighting Techniques for Digital Photography


digital photography lighting techniques5
digital photography lighting techniques5