“Look for the light!” is often shouted from the rooftops when telling new, and experienced, photographers how to create great images.
Today’s quote is from Trent Parke, an Australian photographer. He’s created photography books; won numerous national and international awards including four World Press Photo Awards; and his photographs are held in numerous public and private collections according to Wikipedia.
“I am forever chasing light. Light turns the ordinary to the magical.” Trent Parke
I have seen absolutely horrendous photographs of fabulous rock formations and exquisite images if mundane subjects.
What is the difference??
Light. And shadow.
I’ll give you a hint about finding that sweet light that makes images come alive with depth and dimension. Look for the the shadows that define the light. It is a change of mindset that I believe helped take my image making skills to a higher level. Think about shadow edge transition. It defines the light.
Deciding on the shadow can help set a mood. Soft shadow edge transitions help give shape and form and 3 dimensionality to your subject. Harsh shadow edge transitions can give an edgy harsh feel to an image, think sunlight at noon or a strong light source in a very low light situation.
I’ve found watching for the shadows makes it easier to find the ‘right’ light.
Go create some magic of your own…
Yours in Creative Photography, Bob
