Lighting is one of the most important elements that will have an impact on the quality of your pictures. It can add emotions and improve the clarity of the photos, among other things. That said, if you want to improve the quality of your photos through better lighting, read on and learn from some of the tips we will share.
1. Start with the Right Gear:
One of the most important things to do is to invest in the right equipment. Especially if you are just starting out, you do not need to buy brand new. Instead, you can consider a lighting rental as an alternative. Flashbulbs, LEDs, CFLs, and incandescent bulbs are just some of the lighting gear that can help in your photography.
Step up your lighting game with the right equipment. If you are looking for the best place where you can rent, one worth checking out is BorrowLenses.
2. Utilize Natural Light:
Using natural light to take great photos can be challenging. If you are shooting indoors, open the lights and doors to add light. When you do this, make sure to turn off the lights inside. When shooting outdoors, on the other hand, choose the right time. Choose the golden hour, which is before sunrise and sunset. These times will surely add more character to your pictures.
3. Position the Light Properly:
You should also pay attention to how close or how far is the source of light from the subject. Placing it close to the subject is recommended. The closer the light source is, the softer the light will be. The farther it is, the harder the light will end up. It becomes narrower the farther it is, which also makes the light narrower and ineffective. With regards to the position, it is also best to position it on the side than in front, especially when shooting human subjects. This prevents the light from hitting the eyes directly. Otherwise, the subject may end up squinting.
4. Diffuse the Light:
If you are shooting outdoors, clouds and trees will be your natural diffusers. Nonetheless, it may not be enough. With this, for improved lighting, it will also be essential to invest in a diffuser. This will reflect the light and will also have an effect on making it softer. Putting a cloth or paper over the light source is a great way to avoid the light from being harsh. Better yet, invest in a portable reflector.
5. Explore Different Angles:
You should also consider the angles at which you shoot the subjects. Experiment with different angles to know which one will work the best for your subject. By playing with the angles, you can come up with different shots, some with added drama. This can also change the lighting pattern to alter the look of the photos.
Indeed, the role of lighting in photography should never be ignored. Pay attention to the tips mentioned above to take advantage of great lighting for taking better pictures.
Read Also:
