Project 6: Window Portraits
To start we are going to watch the first segment of David Hobby's Lighting In Layers:
From this video we learn a few key things:
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| 2011 David Hobby/Strobsit |
We learned a few really useful things about ambient lighting using a large window.
In the layout we can see how everything was arranged:
- A large window opposite the subject acts like a large softbox and becomes a key light.
- On-axis light can create clean shadow-less light if the subject is a few inches to a foot away from the backdrop.
- The light source is so big in relation to the subject that the light is very soft. Relative light size determines how hard or soft the light/shadows will be.
- Any backdrop will do. A white sheet would work in a pinch.
- Use Auto white balance.
Take a look at the setup illustration below:
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| 2011 David Hobby/Strobsit |
Then, Hobby went over moving the subject relative to the window. So the key light/window became more directional.
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| 2011 David Hobby/Strobsit |
By moving the subject 45degrees relative to the light source it's the same effect as moving a light box. Hobby also had the subject sit down and that made the light effectively move up relative to her face. In this format the window mimicked the high "up-and-over" light.
As you start working on this window key-light project, pay attention to the things we learned.
Deliverables
Turn in the best shot and a contact sheet of all your shots.