Eventually, I decided to go downstairs to do something productive at least and perhaps in the process finally become sleepy enough to get some rest. So there I was with the sun just about peeking over the horizon, my eyes glued to this monitor reading and browsing various photography sites.
I read about hard light versus soft light. How one light modifier can affect the mood and output of an image. Softboxes, umbrellas, studio lights, guide numbers, wattage, remote triggers, lens reviews. Blah blah blah. It's amazing how the possibilities of taking a photo is endless. Maybe that's why I couldn't sleep. Too many options. Too many possible concepts to shoot. I really should take it one step at a time.
Anyway, from all of that reading, I decided to test out one particular technique for this shot.
Read the rest of the entry after the jump.
From the beginning, I was told that hard/harsh light is a no no because it is unflattering to the subject. It casts deep, dark shadows and for the most part uglifies a photograph. On the other hand, soft light is smooth, beautiful and lovely. And whenever possible, soft light is what photographers should try to achieve. That was my mindset before.
I now know that hard light can be flattering too. It's all about mixing ratios. Hard light filled in with soft light can create beautiful, dramatic and edgy images if done right. The photo above is just a rough example of what this type of lighting can do. And I'm more than excited to try out this style and incorporate it into my future shoots.
Strobistry:
1. 430exII on lightstand shot through white umbrella@1/16th power 24mm camera left just outside the room
2. YN 460II on slave mode with grid 1/32 power 35mm camera left pointed to subjects face
3. Triggered via CTR 301p's