Light Basics and Vocabulary

Part 1: Lighting Techniques

Rembrandt- It creates a triangle on the opposite side of the light. You would use it to create a dramatic picture. IT uses 1 light source.

Split- It creates a line that goes down the middle of the face one side will be a lit side and other will be shadow. It creates a contrast sort of look. It uses 1 light source.

Broad- You use it to create a bright photo. It uses the same form as rembrandt just the model turns and only shows the light side of the face. It uses 1 light source.

ButterFly- The light source creates a kinda sparkle in the eye and on the general person. It makes it more lit and looks completely lit except the shadow under the nose. It uses 1 source of light.

Loop Light- It uses the butterfly just moves the light to the right or left. This will create a loop around the person face, the opposite side. It goes from the chin around to the temple. It uses 1 light source.

Vocabulary- Key light/main source of light, skim/dimmer, and a fill light/ any other light besides the key light.

Part 2: Vocabulary

Fill Light- The light to fill the model in the photo. Other than the key light.

Key Light- Your main source of light.

Hair Light- It is a light that is made to light up the subjects hair.

Background Light- It is a light that is lighting up the back of the subject.

Shadowless- Has no shadows in the photo.

Hard Light- The shadows that more of a sharp edge to them.

Soft Light- The shadows have less of a sharp edge to them. The opposite of hard light.

Grey Card- It is a card that is used in front of a light that produces more of a constant light exposure.

Reflector- It is a reflective object that reflect the light towards the subject usually but can also be used to soften the light towards the subject.

Diffuser- Softens the light source.

Part 3: Five Characteristics of Light

Direction- This can change the shadows on the subject. It depends on where the light source is.

Intensity- The lights can be changed in intensity such as how light the light is. This also consists of the shutter speed and aperture being changed.

Color- The color of the light.

Contrast- Is the difference between the shadows and the lighted areas subtle or sudden.

Hardness- Is it a hard or soft light? Sharp edges in the photo or smooth edges.