Photographers use different techniques depending on what they're photographing.
A photographer uses different tricks and techniques to get the finished photograph that he's looking for. There are many kinds of tactics from creative angles to specialized lighting, all depending on the type of photography. When photographing outdoors, a photographer may use lighting to help balance shadows, add highlights or brighten a photograph.
Lighting Overview
Most studio photographers use lighting in order to control the brightness and the shadows of the subject. What one photographer chooses to use may vary from what another would choose to use. The most common types of studio lighting are strobes, soft boxes, umbrellas, tungsten light bulbs and daylight bulbs. Different types of light bulbs give different colors and brightness levels. Other accessories help to control the lighting so the photographer can create the effects that he'd like. How the lighting is set up will also depend on what the photographer is trying to achieve.
Common Outdoor Lighting
Some photographer simply use a flash to fill in lighting and decrease shadows on subjects. The flash may be a stand-alone flash or a built-in flash system. This is a simple way to counteract shadows.
For more controlled lighting, a photographer may use some of the lighting equipment you'd find in a studio. The soft box and umbrella systems are the most commonly used in outdoor photo shoots. The photographer may use shades to block harsh natural lighting while filling in with artificial lighting. This helps to prevent shadows and give even lighting while still photographing outdoors.
A photographer may use tungsten light bulbs for a warmer glow or may use bright day-light bulbs to replicate the natural lighting. This will depend on the brightness and color that the photographer would like to achieve.
Is Outdoor Lighting Necessary?
In most instances, outdoor lighting isn't necessary during the day. Overcast skies can give very bright, natural light while minimizing shadows. In the bright sun, you can find natural shade or create your own. If you have a flash, you can use it to fill in lighting.
If you are doing a shoot during low-light or if you would like to control the lighting, you may want to consider using outdoor lighting equipment. You will need to make sure you are near a power source to plug in the equipment.
Learning More About Lighting
If you are uncertain about lighting and when to use it, you can experiment on your own. You don't need to invest a lot of money in lighting equipment. You can create your own with lamps, different types of light bulbs and different diffusers. If you are looking for a more formal learning experience, consider taking a class on lighting.
Tags: light bulbs, lighting equipment, control lighting, create your, fill lighting
