The theory behind photography is really simple. Light sensitive material (film or pixel) collects the light that enters the camera through the lens. The process is regulated by aperture and shutter, simple but effective mechanisms. The process itself is as simple as filling an empty bucket with water. It’s just the case of filling the bucket to your liking. So why so many photographers get this so wrong?
I think the answer lies in not understanding the language of photography: light.
The formula for correct exposure is to make 18% grey look like 18% grey– a rule that will apply to all of us who want to capture and document the reality as it is. But that’s not the only way of creating photos.
What will happen if you will make that card look 10% grey? Well, you will start interpreting the scene. You can overexpose your photo, get rid of shadows, celebrate highlights and lift the whole scene. Or do the opposite, invoke darker moods, play with gentle flicks of light on a black canvas, leaving plenty of content up to the viewer’s imagination. And that for me is the beauty of our profession: we can all shoot the same thing and end up with completely different image.
Natural light at dusk
Light is a beautiful form of energy and for us photographers light is everything. And, as Joe McNally would say, we need to be eloquent when using it. We can create tension, drama, express the mood of the scene – all one flash and click away.
Mastering light comes from understanding theory backed with a lot of practice and actual shooting. Only this combination will bring you noticeable progress in the shortest possible time. I still haven’t found a book about lighting that wouldn’t summarise its content with:
…so that’s what we have to say; now go and shoot!
But sometimes we are trying too hard. I know plenty of talented photographers who were using multiple lights to create their photos and not doing it well: because they didn’t know the basics of lighting.
Why not start with something so obvious that makes perfect sense: with just one source of light.
Ambient light with one flash through softbox
Look at the sky, how many suns do we have? It’s the way the universe and nature are lighting our world. And look how well it makes the world look. One sun gives us so many different lighting scenarios. It can be harsh, soften by clouds, warm during sunrise… As photographers we can use the available light at its best or emulate this with our flashes, softboxes, umbrellas and gels.
I’m a big fan of simple lighting. One light can create amazing effects and looks very professional – if you know how to use it. I’m specialising in working on location, where – most of the times – I need to work quickly and deliver the results fast. Carrying a lot of gear is often not practical, that’s why I often use just one speedlite or flash head for my work. To be honest, at least 50% of my work visible on my website was created with just one source of light!
One flash, ND filter, ambient light and cold white balance
During photoNepal workshops we will be developing our skills and pushing our limits in every photographic aspect.
We will be creating some stunning images of Nepalese landscapes, making portraits of amazing people and practicing street and wildlife photography. We will go through theory, lighting scenarios and then we will take that knowledge and apply it in the field. We will move from natural light to flash lighting, making it harsh, soft, edgy, wrapping, directional, bounced, flattering, dramatic and moody – all of this with minimum amount of gear and maximum creativity. Through understanding of composition and lighting we will, day after day, become better photographers.
I’m very passionate about teaching photography and I can’t wait to meet you all. Let’s make some stunning photos together!
See you soon!
Sebastian
