How to Set Up Lighting for Still Photography
Taking a good still photograph depends on myriad factors. But always know your subject, what you want to convey, and the type of camera and related equipment most appropriate for the job.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Good camera, such as a high-quality Nikon
- Knack for snapping photos
- Technical background
- Patience
- Ability to take direction
- Subject to photograph
Instructions
-
Know Your Subject
-
1
Know what the subject is. That makes a big difference in what the lighting is going be--if it's fashion, you want the fashion model lit really well because high fashion, of course, is basically high lighting. If you are shooting a portrait of an author, you want it to be more dramatic. Columbus, Ohio-area photographer John Johnston says that if, for example, you are shooting a bowl of fruit, you will obviously want it lit differently.
-
2
Know that a large diffused light source such as a bank light, or more a directional light source with spot lights, or maybe a combination of both, may be used.
-
-
3
Think about what else you might need. Along with lights, think about using reflectors of white or silver to fill in shadows or black boards to create shadows.
-
4
Fourth, take into account the angle you take, such as positioning yourself directly overhead for a bird's eye view or a low angle, for example.
-
5
Note that, in photography, tungsten light is a generic reference to standard, artificial room lighting such as from household bulbs rather than fluorescent lamps.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consumer and personal cameras are made for bright light.
Generally, the more you pay, the better the camera.
Always read the manual.
Resources
- Photo Credit Kevin Harkins, Londonderry, NH-based photographer
