The Gift of Light

I am forever chasing light. Light turns the ordinary into magical. – Trent Parke

Understanding light is crucial in photography. It is the effect of light and shadow that give forms to shapes. As photographers, we capture light and its effects on our subjects. When we craft light that reflects our intentions for photographing the subject, viewers will be engaged in our interpretation of our subjects and mood.

We see light every day and easily take it for granted. To understand how to utilize different light source effectively, we need to make conscious effort to observe light and study its effects on subjects. With light, it comes with color, contrast, direction, and intensity. We need to understand the dynamics of those qualities and their impact on forms, space and atmosphere which are all crucial elements in photography. When we learn to utilize those tools efficiently, it can make a big impact on our photography.

I find myself very sensitive to the changes light has on my mood throughout the day, and during different times of the year. Living in Rhode Island, we have very little sunlight during winter, and we have more soft overcast days too. Instead of dreading those days that have little direct sunlight, I learn to embrace the low angle and softer natural light. I try to translate those quiet emotions I experience during winter months into my photographs. It takes more than picking what subjects to photograph and the time of day I photograph them. It is the light that determines the visual impact a photograph has. The type of light we choose to use to illuminate our subject plays a crucial role in effecting the mood, feeling and emotions we want to convey in our photographs.

So how do we learn to capture the magic of light in our photographs? The simple answer really is to be a student of light. Allow ourselves quiet moments to stop, to look, and to reflect on light. Reflect on the feelings you experience during different times of the day, learn to see the characteristics and nuances of different light sources. Observe and feel the presence of light, learn to appreciate its subtleties and varieties. how do you feel when the sunlight hits your face? What about the days when they get so dense and foggy, you can’t see anything beyond a couple of feet? The more you observe those transient moments and their effect on your mood, you are more prepared to choose the best lighting condition that works with the subjects you choose. Essentially there is no good or bad light. Each type of light has its own qualities and effects. Having a good understanding on the properties of different types of light allows us to make the best use of the available light.

Each of us will have natural inkling to certain light conditions. Regardless of the quality of light, be it soft, subtle, harsh, high contrast, it is always present and ever changing. Observing and studying light is a lifelong journey. Wherever you look, there is light. We make new discoveries when we open our heart and be receptive of those moments.