Abi Coop
Melissa Richard
Kristen Ryan
When I first started into photography, I dove right in and read every “Intro to Photography” article I could get my hands on. And each one of those talked about how photography is all about light.
I mean, even the literal meaning of the word photograph is “drawing with light”.
So I did what most amateur photographers do, I started looking for light, lots of light. I would open all doors and windows when I was forced to take pictures indoors. Else, I was stuck taking pictures outside during the Golden Hour. Isn’t that’s what we are supposed to do?
And then, almost accidentally, I stumbled upon an e-book by Meg Loeks where she talks about different types of light and how “low light” is her favorite type of light. As amazed as I was with this discovery, I instantly fell in love with the results of my initial attempt. Though imperfect, I still loved the how those photographs made me feel when I looked back at them.
There began my journey of Low Light Photography. Since then I have learned techniques and practiced almost every single day to get it right and I am still a work-in-progress.
And here is why I love Low Light photography so much:
The subject that is closest to the light source is the brightest, as you get farther from the light source the scene and its subjects gets less brighter and falls into shadow eventually. The viewer’s eyes travels through the scene and go straight to the brightest object in the picture.
Like in the picture below, you can tell, the scene is set in the kitchen, they are probably eating breakfast and the kids are being silly. The background is almost in the shadow so it’s not distracting the viewer from the subjects, but it’s visible enough to build the story.
The gear for low light photography is just one window or door. You don’t have to set up anything, no strobes or studio lights, no reflectors and no backdrop! All you need is your camera and a willing subject. From dark hotel rooms to basement, you can always find a small window to work with.
The beauty of Low Light is it creates amazing contrast with bright highlights and deep shadows.
The depth that this light creates brings the subject to life, when the subject is smiling you can see their deep glittering eyes and when they are sad the frown lines creates shadows on face enhancing the mood of the subject.
Because the viewers eyes search for the brightest spot in the picture, the details in the highlights become more noticeable. As in the picture below, the profile of the kid, her reflection and the rain drops on the window is the first thing a viewer notices. And the second image, the little fingers and the strings of the Ukulele are the most prominent details.
With small kids at home, clutter becomes part of life. But it doesn’t have to be a part of our pictures. In the picture below, my daughter is decorating her gingerbread house first thing in
the morning. Instead of trying to clean the living room to take a good picture, I closed in our
curtains and all the mess conveniently falls into shadows, highlighting the story that I want to
tell.
Low light photography has my heart, although its work in progress, I am loving every single
image I am making. Meter for the highlights and shoot to your heart’s content, I am sure, like me
you will fall in love with Low Light photography too.
Beautiful photos
Lovely photos .. telling a story no matter the medium is hard .. a picture may replace a thousand words but great pictures create everlasting memories .. that’s what you have done Heena.. proud of you
You captured it all Heena. I used to think that you have an eye for spotting picture worthy moments and that’s what makes you a good photographer. That might still be true but the ability you have, to make a scene from any day of our lives into a head turner is what makes you a great photographer. Loved reading your piece right from etymology to each reason for why low light makes all the difference.
Way to go Heena!
Most photo albums are full of major events in ones life – birthdays, vacations, etc. It is amazing how you have picked up the downright ordinary events and made them remarkable. They are so real and so authentic. LO is lucky to have such nostalgic memories of her growing up being captured!! Kudos.
Fantastic pictures Heena, especially loved the ukelele picture. I like the pictures and storytelling style, natural and evocative. You have a gift, keep at it!!
Only you can make it this beautiful Heena.. Lovely pictures! Each of your photo tells a story, shares an emotion which even a thousand words won’t be able to express it.. You are making memories🤗
Great to read about low light photography. I loved how you have explained your play with lights and shadows.. This will surely inspire many people and build their interest in photography too. Amazing work.
Our little baby girl in all her glory being showcased by her mom! The pictures are beautiful and so is this article, so happy that you are pursuing your love and giving it all the time and mastering the craft 😃
Big fan of your work Heena! While the focus here is on low light photography, one of the biggest reason I like your work is your way of story telling. This separates you from the rest!
Great article, you made me want to try low light more! I love your portraits they are always so rich and deep.
Your every click is a piece of your heart.
And your storytelling is an anthor form of art that paints for heart.