2. Make silhouetted shapes distinct and uncluttered. If there is more than one shape or object in the image that you’re attempting to silhouette, try to keep them separated. i.e. if you are silhouetting a tree and a person don’t have the person stand in front of the tree or even leaning on it as it will merge them into one shape and as a result your viewers could be confused about what the shape is.
By Popphoto Staff | Published Mar 13, 2008 9:07 PM EDT
SHAREDigital Photography School offers eight things to keep in mind when you attempt to capture a silhouette
Aside from the technical tips on focusing, lighting, framing, and metering, they make useful suggestions about subject. After all, just because you can make a silhouette of a subject doesn’t always mean you should. Here are two of our favorites:
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1. Choose a Strong Subject** Almost any object can be made into a silhouette, however some are better than others. Choose something with a strong and recognizable shape that will be interesting enough in its two dimensional form to hold the interest of those viewing your image. Silhouettes can’t draw on the colors, textures and tones of subjects to make them appealing – so the shape needs to be distinct.
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2. Make silhouetted shapes distinct and uncluttered.** If there is more than one shape or object in the image that you’re attempting to silhouette, try to keep them separated. i.e. if you are silhouetting a tree and a person don’t have the person stand in front of the tree or even leaning on it as it will merge them into one shape and as a result your viewers could be confused about what the shape is.
Also when framing you’ll probably want to photograph silhouetted people as profiles rather than looking straight on. This means that more of their features (nose, mouth, eyes) are outlined and they are more likely to be recognized.
(Click here to read all eight pointers)