When shooting on location, there’s the light that is already there and the light that is created by the photographer. Knowing how to manage both is the key to turning an ordinary scene into an extraordinary image.
Of course, to manage light, one must understand how to see light. The week starts with the five characteristics of light: direction, intensity, color, contrast, and shadow line. Building on these concepts, students explore how changes to the character of lighting change the viewer’s perception of the subject. Students are encouraged to take a highly creative approach to lighting – rather than capture the light as it appears, students craft light to express their creative vision.
The main lighting tools for this workshop are studio-sized, battery-powered strobes and modifiers (softboxes, umbrellas, grids, gels, flags, etc). Students also learn how to use professional grip gear – such as C-stands and booms. Other sources of photographic light (small flash, LEDs, tungsten, and fluorescent) are introduced as needed.
Class time includes discussion about lighting issues that arise in the field, as well as strategies for shooting portraits on location. Students shoot on location in the afternoons and evenings. Critiques follow the next morning. By the end of the week, participants feel confident in the use of light and strobe lighting systems in a variety of conditions.
This workshop is oriented to advanced amateurs and pros who have a basic understanding of flash photography. No prior experience with large strobes is required.
SYL | 'sill'