Monthly Archives: September 2016

Portrait Lighting – Part 2 – Understanding Functions of Light

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There are so many names for light that one could easily get lost.  We have a Main source, which some prefer to call the Key, Modeling or even the Contrast Light.  Then there is a Fill source, which is also referred to as Supporting or Base.  There are background , Hair, and Accent which have a multitude of names such as Rim, Kicker, Back or Pencil.  But what do these source styles really do and how do we use them? MAIN LIGHT (Key/Modeling/Contrast) The Main is normally the strong or broad light source such as the sun, or in a studio … Continue reading →

Portrait Lighting – Part 1 – Understanding Light Ratio

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Photographers use light to create definition in the subjects/objects we photograph.  Generally speaking, whether you are creating a portrait of people or photographing a still life, you need a solid understanding of light ratio in order to properly light your subject matter; we use shadow as a definition tool for lighter subjects/objects and highlights to define darker subjects/objects  One could say that photographers use light similarly as a make-up artist will use make-up on their subjects to define their faces. Light Ratio Photography is defined as painting with light. So, obviously light is light, but it is all about what … Continue reading →