Kitchens by Riland

In photography, the photographer’s paramount concern is lighting. To be able to capture the essence of what a photographer is trying to impart to the viewer through his lens, it is absolutely important that the lighting is just right. Light plays a vital role in that it sets the mood for the photograph that is to be taken. Be it life portraits or still life, lighting will dictate whether a picture is a success or a complete disaster. Bad lighting makes bad photographs.

Photographers usually use what they term existing light to take realistic photos of their subjects. Tungsten or ordinary light bulbs and fluorescent bulbs found inside the homes are lodged in this category. Existing light photographs are advantageous and convenient than flash photography because no special lighting equipment is needed.

An example of a subjects or objects that would require existing light for photography are instances of product photography such as jewelries. When taking pictures of jewelries it is important to remember that diffused lighting must be used to get clear and sharp pictures. It is sometimes also necessary to use continues lighting for product photography so that an unambiguous image of the product may be visualized. The flash on cameras is not effective on jewelry photographs because the flash will create harsh pictures and shadows on the subject. Jewelries are shiny and gemstones sparkle. In order to catch the sparkles and bring out the beauty of jewelries, light bulbs are utilized and must be positioned carefully to bring about the perfect jewelry photo. It is no surprise that photographers use 3 or more light bulbs, (diffused) positioned at specific angles, when taking photos of jewelries.

In capturing night scenes it is important that it appears natural. Hence, night scenes are situations which make use of existing light, i.e. lights from a lamp posts. Also, a skilled photographer would be able to create daytime scenes at night by using light bulbs. Three to four ordinary 300 watt bulbs placed strategically in a room would create the illusion of sunlight or daylight during night time shoots.

Photographers also make use of light boxes in creating beautiful photos. Light boxes are usually made of pvc pipes and sheets. The subject is placed in the center of the light box and a halogen bulb or spotlight is placed in a part of the box. If everything is placed appropriately the result will be a dramatic and beautifully illuminated product.