The Tip: Look for the Catchlights and the Shadows
Instead of just staring at your subject's face, focus primarily on their eyes and the shadows on their face. This will tell you almost everything you need to know about the light.
* Catchlights: These are the reflections of the light source in the subject's eyes.
* Why they're important: They make the eyes look alive, add sparkle, and tell you the location of the light source.
* What to look for:
* Position: Where are the catchlights? High, low, left, right, centered? This tells you where the light is coming from. A light source above is generally flattering, while a light source from below can look unnatural.
* Size: Big catchlights come from larger, softer light sources (like a softbox or an overcast sky). Small catchlights come from smaller, harder light sources (like a direct flash or the sun). Softer light is usually more flattering for portraits, as it creates softer shadows.
* Shape: Is the catchlight round (like from a bulb) or rectangular (like from a window or softbox)? The shape can hint at the type of light source.
* Absent catchlights - are sometimes intentional, and can give a moodier look.
* Shadows: Pay close attention to the shadows on your subject's face.
* Why they're important: Shadows define the form and create depth.
* What to look for:
* Softness/Hardness: Hard shadows have sharp edges (direct sunlight, bare flash). Soft shadows have gradual transitions (overcast day, softbox). Softer is generally more flattering (but not always).
* Placement: Where are the shadows falling? A shadow falling across the nose can dramatically change the look. Shadows under the chin can emphasize a double chin. Shadows from the eyebrows can obscure the eyes.
* Depth: How deep (dark) are the shadows? Deep shadows can add drama but can also hide details. Lighter shadows are more subtle.
How to Practice:
1. Everyday Observation: Start noticing the light and shadows on people's faces throughout the day. Pay attention to how different light sources (sunlight, lamps, windows) affect the look.
2. The Hand Test: Hold your hand out in front of you and move it around, observing how the light changes the shadows on your hand. This helps you understand the relationship between light source and shadow placement.
3. The Apple/Orange Test: Set up an apple or orange on a table and shine a lamp on it. Observe the catchlights and shadows as you move the lamp around. This is a great, low-pressure way to learn about light.
4. Selfies: Take selfies in different lighting conditions and analyze the results. What looks good? What doesn't? Why?
Example:
Imagine you're photographing someone indoors near a window:
* Catchlights: You see a large, rectangular catchlight in each eye, slightly to one side and slightly high. This tells you the window is your primary light source and it's positioned to the side and slightly above your subject.
* Shadows: You notice soft shadows on the opposite side of the face from the window. The shadows are gradual, indicating a relatively soft light.
Based on this, you can then adjust your subject's position to fine-tune the light and shadows for a more flattering portrait.
Key Takeaway: Practice looking for catchlights and shadows, and you'll quickly develop an eye for good portrait lighting. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what works best!