Working with Light
Photography literally means “light writing” or “writing with light.” The word “photography” is derived from two Greek words: photos (light) and graphos (drawing).
Light is the essence of photography. It’s important to understand some of the challenges, opportunities and techniques of working with both natural and artificial light.
Working with varying light
Learn to work with the three main types of natural light:: direct, diffuse, or ambient. Each type poses its own challenges and has its own opportunities, and demands different approaches from the photographer.
Using outside light inside
Use natural, available light from the outside to take photos inside. Unlike a built-in digital camera flash, outside light illuminates a subject with a more natural glow by yielding a softer transition between highlights and shadows.
Infrared photography
Explore the surreal world of infrared photography. When using an infrared filter, infrared “radiation” is made visible to the camera eye and produce wonderfully unique photos.
Using a laser to focus
In low light, a laser pointer can help a digital camera focus faster and more accurately.