Adding Light to Your Photographs

Today’s Post by Mark Toal

I feel like photographic lighting is becoming a lost art. I think it has a lot to do with cameras being able to shoot at higher ISO’s and the popularity of cell phone photography. We don’t need strobes and studio lights as much as we used to. In my case it has a lot to do with laziness too, it’s easier to say that I’m a natural light photographer than it is to think about getting out and setting up the lights.

Most modern digital cameras will fire an external flash wirelessly. If you’re hesitant to get started with lighting check out your local camera stores for rental equipment. Also check out LED and other continuous lights to get started.

One of the masters of creative lighting is Michael Greco. I bought Michael’s book “Lighting and the Dramatic Portrait” a few years ago and then had the chance to meet and get to know Michael through my job at Panasonic. Take a look at the Michaels portraits and how he uses lighting outdoors to get dramatic shots. If you ever get a chance to hear Michael talk or take one of his workshops don’t hesitate. He’s a great teacher and willing to share his techniques and knowledge.There are a lot of great books like Michael’s and how-to videos on YouTube to help you get started.

Joe Farace is also a master at studio lighting and posing and has several books on the subject. For some tips, tricks and techniques on creating studio lighting effects without spending big bucks on gear, please pick up a copy of Joe’s book “Studio Lighting Anywhere” from Amazon or your local camera store.