The Power of Distance - How the Inverse Square Law Applies to Your Photography
Photography is all about capturing light and shaping it to create stunning images. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your journey, understanding the fundamental principles of light is crucial. One of the principles that can significantly impact your photography is the inverse square law.
Understanding the Science of Harsh vs. Soft Light
It’s all about size and placement when it comes to light, and bigger is better. This is one topic that many photographers often misunderstand. It seems natural that when a light source moves closer to a subject or becomes larger, the light falling on that subject becomes brighter and harsher.
You will often hear descriptors of light in terms of it being harsh or soft. Harsh light is often equated with bright light sources, whereas soft light is often associated with dimmer sources. However, the brightness of the light is not what makes the determination.
Exploring the Possibilities of Using Off-Camera Lighting
Many photographers start out as I had when it comes to the subject of using off-camera lighting. Light was an enigma, and it was far easier to avoid than dabble with it. If you are like me, you may have refused to use off-camera lighting and swore that natural light was the only way to go. After all, landscapes are taken under natural lighting conditions. However, understanding off-camera lighting does not have to be complicated, and there are good reasons to start using it if you have not.