Light techniques - Advanced guides - Photo & Video - Digital & Tech

digital

Rise early, stay late
The golden hours around dawn and dusk are when the light tends to be the most exciting.
Use reflectors
You'll get more natural results if you use a reflector to fill in detail, rather than reaching for a flashgun.
Keep silhouettes simple
Make sure that you retain the distinctive shape of a subject don't let it bleed into other silhouettes.
Add flash subtly
Avoid the 'overflashed' look and reduce your flash output when shooting in daylight.
Avoid flare
Shield the front element of your lens with your hand when shooting into the sun.
Bring out colours
Shoot saturated colours, such as autumn foliage, on an overcast or cloudy-bright day.
Watch your meter
Your camera can be fooled by unusual lighting conditions; spot meter for total control.
Add light in fog
When shooting mist or fog, increase your exposure by 1EV to bring back the brightness.
Go slow
When shooting in low light, combine a slow shutter speed with a burst of flash for interesting results.
Be persistent
Inspiring views deserve inspiring light don't be satisfied until you get it.