May's Photo Challenge...directional light...

"Look and THINK before you open the shutter.  The HEART and MIND are the true lens of the camera." -Yousuf Kargh

I am finding that different types of light can fall into several categories.   For example, in March we explored 'hard light'.  Well, hard light can also be directional light as you will soon see.   Directional light simply means light that travels in a specific direction, while general lighting provides even, overall illumination.  Directional lighting is usually provided by a strong light source, which will result in strong pictures full of contrast, and it creates a deep, or strong mood.  This type of light will result in strong highlights, and dark shadows.  Directional light can include side, above, beneath, across, back, or rim.  It conveys texture by skimming across details of the subject, and renders form through the use of deep shadows.

Challenge: 

• Take up to 4 photos preferably one each week showing directional lighting.  

• Do not use archives: photos must be taken between the March and April meetings.

• Include you photo information

• Have fun

Here are some examples of directional lighting.

Photo by Steve Adams...strong, side window lighting adds drama to this picture.

Photo by Rob McKelvy...Side window lighting taken with an iPhone.

Photo by Rob McKelvy...Sunset light

Photo by Rob McKelvy...light from a beauty dish...(I think).  Look at the definition of his arm muscles, and face.  

Photo by Rob McKelvy...parabolic lighting

Photo by Rob McKelvy...rim lighting from the sun back light.

Photo by Gennean Hendricks...lighting from a skylight, and a torch light from the side.  This lighting adds so much texture, and creates a dramatic picture.  The mood is strength, and very masculine.

Photo by Gennean Hendricks...taken 30 minutes after sundown...side lighting from  the sun.  The camera picks up a blue light that our eye does not see.  The lights from the mill add depth, and dimension to the structures.  Nice sunbursts.  Very dramatic.

Photo by Gennean Hendricks...night scene...Windmill painted with a flashlight.  Does this not evoke the feeling of loneliness, and vastness?  

Photo by Gennean Hendricks...side lighting from the sun...golden hour.   

I hope this gives you some idea of how directional lighting can stir the emotions, set the mood, and add drama to your pictures.  It is fun to explore, see, and capture different kinds of light.  Go look for some directional light, and get clicking.  I cannot wait to see your photos in May.