Exercise: Experimenting with light.

We should try and use the same model for this exercise and take between four and six head and shoulders portraits that are very different in lighting effects. Find locations where the light varies and frame tightly so that the setting is not distracting, paying attention to the differences in shadows ad highlights on the face.

Indoors, white background, natural light.

 

1/20 f5.3 ISO 200 66mm WB Auto

 

 

Indoors, white wall, built in flash.

 

 

1/40 f5.3 ISO 200 70mm WB Auto

 

 

Outdoors, natural dappled light, under tree.

 

 

1/320 f5 ISO 200 58mm WB Auto

 

 

Outdoors, full sun.

 

 

1/320 f5 ISO 200 58mm WB Auto

 

 

Outdoors, shade.

 

 

 

1/320 f5 ISO 200 52mm WB Auto

 

 

I have previously carried out a similar project while completing The Art of Photography. I have never been a fan of photos taken indoors and I especially dislike the one taken with the built in flash. The image needs to be lit from both sides or a reflector used as there is an unsightly shadow on the right of my model. There is also reflection in her eyes. I much prefer the photos taken outside as they look less clinical. My favourite would be the shot taken under the tree as I like the lighting. The shot in complete sun is washed out in places and the one in complete shade is quite dull and not particularly interesting.