Lighting: The Four Principles of Light
In this workshop we will explore the Four Principles of Light. In it’s simplest form... photography is the recording of light on a subject or area and how the light is presented in the final form. But what is Light? You can’t see it or touch it or hear it. We can only see how it reflects from a subject. One of the easiest ways to understand light, is to think of it as water. Keep this analogy in mind when exploring the Four Principles of Light.
WEEK 1
We will go over the Four Principles of Light and go over the many different types of lighting available to photographers. We will also go over the many different types of light modifiers that allow us to direct, carve and sculpt light on our subject.
Homework Assignment: Email some photos that demonstrate at least one of the Four Principles of light. Be prepared to go over your images with the class.
WEEK 2
We will be going over homework assignment and also showing sample photos of different types of light scenarios, including available (ambient light) and then adding 1, 2 or 3 lights.
Homework Assignment: Continue practicing!
Writing with Light with Joe McNally
Below is a great video with Joe McNally using 23 Profoto lights on set. He is an amazing photographer and this video really shows how light works!
Supplemental Material (PDFs)
This area will have PDF files that you can download for each class and keep for future reference. Please note that PDF files may be updated as needed.
Useful Links
Canon - Link to Canon's camera manual page.
Lens Simulator (NikonUSA) - You can simulate images shot with various combinations of lenses, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto, and cameras, in different formats. Image varies with the value of the focal length. This is useful as lens configurations are similar for other camera manufacturers.BorrowLenses.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
LensProToGo.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
RentGlass.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
Mpix - Online printing company for affordable high quality prints.
Now That's a Wrap - Local large-format fine-art and commercial art print and installation company.
Backup Solutions
Carbon Copy Cloner - Backup software for MacOS. Simple. Customizable. Reliable. This is to be used for onsite backup from one drive to another.
Backblaze - World's easiest cloud backup for MacOS and Windows. Peace of mind. Period.
Organizations & Clubs
Professional Photographers of America (PPA) - If you want to be the best photographer you can be, you belong here. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve owned your photography business for years, PPA can help. Join a community that understands your goals and challenges and meet colleagues who want to see you succeed. We have a passion for helping photographers grow their practices, exceed customer expectations and push the artistic envelope. We are a source for inspiration, protection, community and education.
Florida Professional Photographers (FPP) - The FPP exists solely for the good of its members. The association provides the tools and educational opportunities for its members to achieve their business and artistic goals. It is committed to an ongoing exchange of information and experiences among all members in an open and friendly atmosphere.
Bay Professional Photographers Association (BPPA) - BPPA provides an opportunity for photographers to come together to exchange ideas and information and encourage each other to become better at their craft. The association allows photographers to improve their skills by presenting photographic programs and holding print competitions. The association also provides the benefit of networking with other photographers for business and social interaction.
Lakewood Ranch Digital Photography Club - The aim of the Club is to promote growth in members appreciation and skill in making digital photographs and videos through education in both the science and art of photography and videography. Monthly meetings are designed and offered for all levels of photographic understanding from beginner through professional. Special interest Workshops and educational classes are provided to both beginning and advanced photographers. Visitors and guests are welcome at all monthly meetings.
The North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) - The North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) is a nonprofit membership association that helps North America-based nature photographers at all levels of experience grow as artists, citizen scientists, and entrepreneurs through education, networking, and advocacy. Together with our members, we advance conservation and foster ethical field practices for the long-term benefit of all.