If you’re reading this blog, you probably A) have had your photo taken by me and appreciate good photography, B) are hoping to have your photo taken by me (ya!) and appreciate good photography, or C) are interested in learning more about good photography. (Notice the common theme here?) What makes up a good photograph, you ask? Many different things, which I will cover over the next few weeks. But first and foremost…drum roll please…GOOD LIGHTING!
You know what they say about buying a home: location, location, location. Well with photographs, it’s more like lighting, lighting, lighting. No matter what camera you’re using, lighting is crucial to getting a good photograph. My absolute favorite lighting is that hour before sunset when the lighting is golden and gentle. Typically mid-day is when the lighting is harshest. During that time of day, photographs are best when the subject isn’t in the direct sunlight (think inside or under some sort of overhang like at the edge of a covered porch or in a garage). Direct sunlight tends to create harsh shadows, which don’t flatter anyone.
This photo was taken near sunset. See how soft the lighting is? I like to shoot with the sun behind the subject (called backlighting).
Another good rule of thumb is to make sure that there’s light in the eyes. See the reflections in his eyes? Those are catchlights. In this photo, he’s looking up toward me and the sky is being reflected in his eyes. Sometimes light from a window, light-colored sidewalk, or a white t-shirt in front of the subject will create catchlights. This light in the eyes makes subjects look alive.
In sum: place your subject near a window for inside photos and for outside photos shoot when the lighting isn’t directly overhead. Furthermore, make sure that there’s light in the subject’s eyes.
More on lighting and other photo tips to come! Leave a comment..was this helpful? Any other photo questions you want answered?
~Virginia
