In this live chat show Karl and Ashleigh will discuss the importance of lighting control, reviewing a number of examples and explaining different techniques for controlling light.

When it comes to photography, one of the most essential things that helps make a strong, memorable image is light.

Light is one of the key factors in creating successful imagery. By controlling things such as the brightness or darkness of an image, shadows and colour, we can control the mood and feel of an image. By creating images that people connect to, we are essentially producing imagery that will stay with them, that they will remember. While creative elements such as composition, camera settings and the subject also come into play, it is light that has the biggest impact as it can essentially make or break an image.

So how do we control light to create memorable images?

Together, Karl and Ashleigh discussed why it’s so important to control light and explored the different techniques used to control light.

Techniques for controlling light

Whether you're using natural light or studio light, there are a number of different techniques you can employ to control light.

• Controlling the hardness / softness of the light
• Controlling the direction of the light
• Changing / controlling the colour of the light

Karl and Ashleigh looked at each of these techniques, discussing the effects of each and how they can be used to control mood and emotion.

This can be done in a number of different ways, including:

• Choice of modifier
• Using accessories (such as reflectors / flags)
• Distance between the subject and light
• Position of the light (height, direction, angle etc)

Throughout this show the pair looked at each of these techniques and how they can be used to produce a variety of different results. Looking at a number of different examples, they showed exactly what effect different lighting has and why this often overlooked creative element is in fact so powerful.

To watch this live show and learn more about lighting control, make sure to sign up to Karl Taylor Education. In addition to this live workshop, you’ll also get access to all our hundreds of other classes and past live shows.

In this live chat show Karl and Ashleigh will discuss the importance of lighting control, reviewing a number of examples and explaining different techniques for controlling light.

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