I've been taking photos since I was old enough to own my first Polaroid camera about 40 years ago. I remember how horrible the quality was. Well, we have come a long way since those days. Technology has taken the world of photography, especially digital photography, to a whole new level. However, as great as the technology is, nothing can make up for poor lighting, no matter how great the camera. I, and many others, have learned this the hard way. This article is going to give you a few solid tips on lighting that will help make your digital photography experience one that won't be one of frustration and disappointment.
The first thing you need to understand about lighting is where to place it, if you're using artificial lighting. Never place the lighting in back of the subject. This is going to result in terrible glare in your photos. You want the lighting to be in back of the photographer or off to the sides of the subject, slightly in front. The more lighting the better. A couple of 500 watt halogen lamps should be more than enough to do the trick.
You need to be careful of shadows. Too much lighting can produce too much shadow...not enough and your subject could end up in the dark. This is going to be a trial and error sort of thing. Unfortunately, with digital cameras, what you often see in the view finder is usually brighter than the finished product that you end up with. So you will have to take a couple of test photos to make sure the lighting is just the way you want it. The good thing about digital cameras is that there is no film to waste. Just delete your test shots after they are finished.
If you are using backdrops, try to choose one that is a light color. Black is definitely out of the question as it will absorb too much of the light. A plain white backdrop is best. These are not expensive. However, if you can't afford to purchase one, simply roll up some plain white material and scotch tape it to the wall behind the subject. It may seem tacky, but nobody is going to care or notice. The bottom line is that you want a photo that is clear and sharp.
These are just a few of the many things you can do when it comes to lighting and your digital photos. If you'd like a really great guide to digital photography, check out the review at my blog that you can find in my signature. It has hands down the best resource available, especially if you're not a professional photographer.
To YOUR Photographic Success,
Steven Wagenheim
Want to turn your digital photos into pure gold? Please check out the review of a great resource at my blog at http://digitalphotographytipsonline.blogspot.com/ where you'll find the answers to all your questions about digital photography that will turn you into a master of the lens in no time.
