-How to find secondary light-
Happy fall everyone! Have you heard the term secondary light? Maybe your like me and your wondering what is it, how do you find it, and why is it so confusing! Well I am going to explain it in a way where hopefully by the end of this you will understand!
What is Secondary light? Secondary light is a second light source you add to the scene to control shadows. Think of it as the assistant to your main light (the sun/ harsh light ). While your main light does the heavy lifting by illuminating your subject, it also creates dark, heavy shadows. The secondary light step in to “fill in” those shadows so they aren’t completely black.
How do you find Secondary light? This is something I am still working on, but what I have learned is to look for the spots that don’t completely block out the sun, but allow an even mix of sunlight and shade. It’s important to understand how different times of day influence the quality of light, as well as how the surrounding environment, such as trees or buildings, can create pockets of secondary light.
Here is a diagram to help!
How do you use secondary light? When I do photoshoots the goal is secondary light; if you can find it use it! Make sure your subject is facing towards the secondary light, and their back is to the harsh light, so it fills in those gaps, and lights up their face. I have found secondary light is sometimes easiest to find mid afternoon on a sunny day. Additionally, paying attention to the softness of shadows and the way colors shift in this ambient light can also help refine your approach to finding and utilizing secondary light.
Note From The Author…
Fall is one of my favorite times of year! #1- Because of the sweater weather! #2- Because of the color of the leaves! #3- The light! Fall light mixed with the trees, colors, and fields make for the wonderfully vibrant pictures! Secondary light is a tricky concept, so don’t beat yourself up if you don’t understand it right away. I know I didn’t get it first try!
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
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Wherever you are. Wherever you go. You can find beauty in Gods creation.
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