Gorgeous Light
January 29, 2010
Light is perhaps the most important consideration when photographing children. There are all kinds of light, sunlight, indirect light, incandescent light and fluorescent light. Regardless of the specific kind of light, where the light comes from and strikes the subject is also very important to us.
Light strikes our subject from four basic directions: Frontlight, Diffused Frontlight, Backlighting and Sidelighting. The most common is Frontlight, but the most useful for creating incredible images is Sidelight where you can create the most dramatic interesting photographs.
In the beginning most photographers are more concerned about the amount of light rather than the quality of the light and its effect on our subject. As you learn to see how the quality of light can work in your favor you will begin to use different kinds of light on purpose to create certain looks or evoke and convey a particular emotion.
Sweet Light
Sweet light is that light that we find early in the morning or at twilight. Some photographers will only photograph using this particular kind of light because it will minimize flare and is less likely to create unflattering effects on our subject.
Child at Sunrise
Light also affects mood – you have probably noticed the quiet hush just before dawn and twilight, and this is a wonderful time to be working with a child in a photographic session.The Challenges
One of the challenges of using this form of light is that it is fleeting, appearing and disappearing in a short period of time. In order to use this light effectively you need to be well prepared ahead of time and work quickly while you have the light you want.
Once you miss this window of opportunity a few times you will realize just how fleeting this gift is! Get familiar with sunrise and sunset times, and then observe these times on several occasions so that you understand the time available to get the photographs you want.
The Rewards
Once you become familiar with the timing, and have practiced preparing for the time available, you will discover some incredible images you can capture during this time.
Your reward will be a child who co-operates willingly, who presents some very sensitive looks and who will look very good in this kind of light.
Remember, keep taking lots and lots of photographs of your kids. You will be glad you did!
Betty Muscott, Child Photographer
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