Photography Basics

Lesson 4: Lighting

Types of Lighting

Hard Light

This type of light comes directly from the source. Sunlight and on-camera flash are two types of hard light. They're strong types of light that create strong and distinctive shadows. Strong light can eliminate details, flatten a subject, and produce the harsh shadows.

Soft Light

This type of light is indirect. It can be sunlight coming through curtains or the hazy sunshine we often see on a cloudy day. Shadows are not as harsh with softer light. This type of lighting is ideal for portraits.

Natural Light

Pretty self-explanatory, I know, but worth mentioning. This type of light comes from a natural source. Sunshine is the prime example of natural light.

Artificial Light

Artificial lighting comes from photofloods, halogen, "local" light (the lamps in the room), candlelight, etc.

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