USING LIGHT

Lighting is an essential creative element of composition. Make the best use of whatever light is available. 

In terms of lighting in photography, exposure is one of the things to be considered. It is a matter of letting light into the camera. It is the amount of light controlled by the aperture (lens opening) and the shutter. 

If the aperture is too large and the shutter is open for too long, the picture will look pale and overexposed. 

Overexposed photo, from Steve's Digicams

If the aperture is too small and the shutter is open for a short time, the picture will be underexposed. 

Underexposed photo, from Steve's Digicams

There are three basic LIGHTING ANGLES:

The front lighting which is effective for buildings or landscapes. Although, it tends to obscure details and make the things in a picture area look rather flat; 

Side Lighting_ photo from Icon Photography School

The side lighting can be the most flattering angle for portrait shots like the picture on the right  facial shadows will be more interesting.

*Shadows; which increase the appearance of perspective, shows up details and textures.




The back lighting is effective for dramatic pictures like sunrises and sunsets.
 

Light at different times of the day:

Light outdoor varies according to the time of the day.

There are strong differences in the colours, shadows and atmosphere according to the position of the sun.

Early Morning: misty, diffused light and hazy shadows.

Midday: harsh light; gives strong colours and short shadows.

Late Afternoon: yellowish light, long shadows.

 *the horizon can also be used to emphasize the most interesting aspects of the scene.