lauantai 28. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Knowing the Sunset Phases as a Photographer

Sunsets are nature’s canvas, painting the sky with a myriad of colors and offering photographers a golden opportunity to capture breathtaking moments. Understanding the different phases of a sunset can significantly enhance the quality of your photographs, allowing you to anticipate changes in light and color. Let’s delve into these phases and explore the unique characteristics of each.

Quick reminder: for a cheat sheet on this topic that you can print out to remember (and many more), venture over to the Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets Sunlight Sale

sunset phases

1. Golden Hour

The golden hour is a magical time for photographers. Occurring roughly an hour before sunset (and similarly after sunrise), this phase is characterized by a warm, golden glow. The sun’s rays, traveling through a thicker portion of the Earth’s atmosphere, scatter, producing this enchanting light. The resulting soft and diffused illumination is perfect for various photography genres:

  • Portraits: The flattering light minimizes skin imperfections and casts gentle shadows.
  • Landscapes: The elongated shadows add depth and dimension to the terrain.
  • Cityscapes: Buildings glow with a soft luminescence, adding character to urban scenes.

2. Civil Twilight

As the sun dips below the horizon, we enter the phase of civil twilight. Lasting until the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon, the sky undergoes a transformation. The warm hues of the golden hour give way to cooler blues and purples. With reduced contrast and minimal shadows:

  • The atmosphere becomes serene, perfect for capturing tranquil landscapes and reflective waters.
  • City lights begin to twinkle, offering a balanced interplay between natural and artificial light.

3. Blue Hour

Contrary to its name, the blue hour is brief, occurring when the sun is between 4 and 6 degrees below the horizon. The sky adopts a deep blue hue:

  • City lights shine brightly, creating a stark contrast against the darkening sky.
  • Landscapes take on a moody ambiance, perfect for evocative imagery.

4. Nautical Twilight

Named for its use by sailors for navigation when the horizon is still discernible, nautical twilight occurs when the sun is between 6 and 12 degrees below the horizon. The sky deepens in color:

  • Blues and purples become more pronounced, adding drama to the scene.
  • The first stars might make an appearance, hinting at the celestial show to come.
  • Silhouettes become prominent, offering creative opportunities for compositions against the vibrant backdrop.

5. Astronomical Twilight

As the sun retreats further, between 12 to 18 degrees below the horizon, we enter astronomical twilight. The sky turns very dark:

  • Most stars become visible, paving the way for astrophotography.
  • The Milky Way might make its grand appearance, allowing for mesmerizing captures.
  • Landscapes under starry skies can create ethereal compositions.

To truly harness the beauty of a sunset, preparation is key. Plan your shots, scout your locations, and be ready with your equipment. Remember, the exact timing and characteristics of each phase can vary based on your location, the season, and prevailing weather conditions. With knowledge and anticipation, you can immortalize the fleeting moments of nature’s grand spectacle.

For Further Training:

Lighting is arguably the most important aspect of photography; but do you know how to use it? These new Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets are designed to help. With critical information on ALL the types of natural light and artificial light you can use. In the spirit of summer, they are currently 80% off until the end of the month as summer wraps up.

lighting cheat sheets

New! Cheat Sheets for Photography Lighting (see how they work)

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, photography cheat sheets can be a valuable resource for improving your skills and taking your photography to the next level. By having all the key information you need in one place, you can focus on what’s important – capturing amazing photos.

Only 1 day left: The Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets at 80% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Knowing the Sunset Phases as a Photographer appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/yIpW3f2
via IFTTT

keskiviikko 25. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Understanding Flash Unit Settings

When used effectively, a flash can be a powerful tool in photography, helping to illuminate your subjects and add depth to your shots. However, understanding flash settings—such as delay, intensity, and others—can be tricky. This guide will help you get the most out of your flash by exploring these critical settings.

Quick reminder: for a cheat sheet on this topic that you can print out to remember (and many more), venture over to the Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets Sunlight Sale

flash unit

Photo captured by Luciano Zanollo

1. Flash Intensity: Controlling the Light

Flash intensity refers to how bright the flash will be. Adjusting this can help create different lighting effects, avoid overexposure, and give your image the desired mood.

  • Low Intensity: Use this setting for subtle fill light or when you’re shooting in well-lit environments. A lower intensity balances natural and artificial light without overpowering your subject.
  • High Intensity: This is ideal for low-light conditions or when you want a dramatic effect, but be cautious of overexposure. You might need to compensate by adjusting the camera’s aperture or ISO.

2. Flash Delay: Timing is Everything

Flash delay determines when the flash fires in relation to when you press the shutter. There are typically two main delay options:

  • Front Curtain Sync (No Delay): The flash fires at the beginning of the exposure, which is useful for freezing motion. This works well in action shots or scenes where you want to stop movement right as it happens.
  • Rear Curtain Sync (Delayed): The flash fires at the end of the exposure, allowing ambient light to be captured first. This setting is great for motion blur effects, such as trailing car lights or when you want to show movement before freezing the subject.

3. Manual vs. TTL Flash

  • Manual Mode: In manual flash mode, you control the power output. This setting gives you full creative control but requires more experience to adjust the light correctly.
  • TTL (Through The Lens) Mode: TTL mode automatically adjusts the flash power based on the camera’s reading of the scene. This is a more automated option, ideal for beginners or when shooting in dynamic lighting environments.

4. Flash Zoom

Some flashes allow you to control the zoom, which focuses the light spread. A narrower beam is useful for highlighting a specific subject, while a wider beam lights up a broader area.

  • Wide Zoom: Best for group shots or when you want to light up a large area.
  • Narrow Zoom: Ideal for portraits or spotlighting a single subject.

5. Bouncing Flash for Soft Light

Instead of pointing the flash directly at your subject, you can bounce it off a ceiling or wall for a softer, more natural look. Most flashes have a tilting head for this purpose. Experiment with the angle to achieve the right balance of light and shadows.

6. Slow Sync Flash

Slow sync flash allows for longer exposures with flash, combining natural and artificial light. This setting is particularly useful in low-light environments where you want to capture background details without losing focus on your subject.

  • Use it in Night Photography: Capture the atmosphere of a dimly lit environment while still keeping your subject well-lit.

Summary:

Flash photography can seem daunting, but once you understand how to control settings like intensity, delay, and zoom, you’ll have much more creative control over your lighting. Whether you’re freezing action or creating soft, natural light, mastering these settings will elevate your photos to the next level.

For Further Training:

Lighting is arguably the most important aspect of photography; but do you know how to use it? These new Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets are designed to help. With critical information on ALL the types of natural light and artificial light you can use. In the spirit of summer, they are currently 80% off today for a Sunlight sale.

lighting cheat sheets

New! Cheat Sheets for Photography Lighting (see how they work)

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, photography cheat sheets can be a valuable resource for improving your skills and taking your photography to the next level. By having all the key information you need in one place, you can focus on what’s important – capturing amazing photos.

Sunlight sale ending soon: The Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets at 80% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Understanding Flash Unit Settings appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/0ExPJOl
via IFTTT

maanantai 23. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: When to Use On-Camera or Off-Camera Flash Photography

Lighting plays a crucial role in photography. With the right lighting, you can create a masterpiece; with poor lighting, even a perfect scene can look dull. Flash is one tool in a photographer’s arsenal to combat tricky lighting situations. But when should you use on-camera flash, and when should you shift to off-camera flash? Let’s dive into the nuances of both.

Related reminder: sunlight sale ending soon for the Photo Lighting Cheat Sheets

flash photography types

Photo captured by Tuyen Vo

On-Camera Flash

Pros:

  • Portability: Being attached to the camera, it’s always with you, ready to use.
  • Simplicity: It requires less setup and is often easier for beginners.
  • Quick shots: Ideal for dynamic situations where you have to shoot quickly.

Cons:

  • Direct Lighting: This can result in harsh shadows and the dreaded “red-eye” effect.
  • Less Creative Control: Its fixed position limits creative lighting angles.

When to Use On-Camera Flash?

  1. Fill Flash: In situations with backlighting, such as a subject with a strong light behind them, on-camera flash can fill in shadows on their face.
  2. Fast-paced Events: Think about wedding receptions or parties where you’re moving quickly and don’t have time to set up off-camera lighting.
  3. Backup: When your main lighting fails, the on-camera flash can save the day.

Off-Camera Flash

Pros:

  • Creative Control: You have full control over the direction and quality of the light.
  • Softer Shadows: With the ability to use modifiers, such as softboxes or umbrellas, you can achieve softer and more flattering shadows.
  • Dimensionality: Off-camera flash can create more three-dimensional and dynamic photos by illuminating the subject from various angles.

Cons:

  • Setup Time: It requires more time to set up, especially if using multiple flashes.
  • Portability: Carrying separate stands, modifiers, and flashes can be cumbersome.

When to Use Off-Camera Flash?

  1. Portraits: To achieve that professional look with soft shadows and well-lit subjects.
  2. Dramatic Lighting: When you want to play with shadows and highlights to create mood.
  3. Complex Scenes: When you need to light different parts of a scene separately.

Tips for Making the Choice:

  • Assess the Situation: Consider the environment you’re shooting in. If you’re indoors with low ceilings, an on-camera flash can be bounced off the ceiling for softer light. In an outdoor evening event, off-camera flash can add depth to your shots.
  • Think About Mobility: If you’re constantly on the move, on-camera might be the way to go. But if you have the luxury of time and space, setting up off-camera flash can be worth the effort.
  • Experiment: The best way to learn is by trying both. Shoot the same subject using both methods and compare the results.

Conclusion

Both on-camera and off-camera flashes have their place in photography. Your choice will often depend on the situation, your creative vision, and the resources at hand. Remember, lighting is a powerful tool. Whether you’re using an on-camera or off-camera flash, mastering it will elevate your photography to the next level.

For Further Training:

Lighting is arguably the most important aspect of photography; but do you know how to use it? These new Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets are designed to help. With critical information on ALL the types of natural light and artificial light you can use. In the spirit of summer, they are currently 80% off today for a Sunlight sale.

lighting cheat sheets

New! Cheat Sheets for Photography Lighting (see how they work)

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, photography cheat sheets can be a valuable resource for improving your skills and taking your photography to the next level. By having all the key information you need in one place, you can focus on what’s important – capturing amazing photos.

Sunlight sale ending soon: The Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets at 80% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post When to Use On-Camera or Off-Camera Flash Photography appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/0eBb8Dl
via IFTTT

keskiviikko 18. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Black and White Photography: A Two-Skill Process

This article is based on concepts from the Better B&W Photography Guide which is currently on sale.

There are two essential skills you must develop to become great at black and white photography.

The first is learning to see—to identify—a great black and white subject. Some subjects demand to be rendered in color, and others scream for a black and white treatment.

The second skill is taking the necessary and precise steps to convert a color image file into black and white. Yes, some cameras allow you to originate your picture in black and white. However, that’s not recommended. You have given up control over how the colored hues will be rendered into shades of gray.

In this article, we will discuss the following skill points:

  • Choosing a proper black and white subject matter
  • How to identify tone value in a scene
  • Composing in black and white using light, shadow, shape, contrast and texture
  • How colors convert to black and white in photography
  • How to properly expose for black and white photography
black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Shahin Khalaji

Black and white photography relies on tone (light to dark shades of gray), as there are no color contrasts to compose in your picture.

Remember this: When searching or deciding on a subject for black and white photography, look for the following:

  • Intense light and dark values within the scene
  • Dominant shapes and lines
  • Light to dark contrast
  • Noticeable and revealing texture

The example photograph above hits every one of those bullet points. Now, let’s examine each concept separately.

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Aline Berry

A photograph such as the one above gains its visual power through tone and shape. The elimination of color forces viewers to explore the outward repeating and radiating patterns of dark and light tones. It also emphasizes the darkness of the pupil.

Imagine if the cornea of this eyeball were blue. It would steal the show, and the rest of the compositional elements would be significantly reduced in their impact. A viewer would home in on that bright blue color versus the whole of the eye.

blue cat eyes

Photo by Kent DuFault

What do you see when you look at the photograph above? You can’t see anything but the blue eye color. Right? The cat’s face practically disappears.

The close up of the human eye was a perfect subject for black and white photography because there are strong light and dark values within the frame. There are dominant shapes. Plus, there are light and dark contrasting lines.

Critical Thought: If the eye cornea was bright blue (such as in the cat photo), and the picture was rendered in color, would that be a bad photo? No—it would merely change the dynamic of the final image. The picture of the cat’s eye picture isn’t bad. I think it’s rather good. It’s a matter of what message you the photographer want to communicate to your viewers. What if the eye color was a dark brown? Would that change its value as a black and white photograph? Good question. I’ll address that momentarily when we discuss color conversion.

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Carlos Quintero

Try This: When determining if a subject might be best produced in black and white or color, ask yourself, “What is the element I find interesting here—a shape, line, contrast, shadow or texture?” If the answer is yes to any of these, the subject is likely a good candidate for a black and white photo. Now ask, “Is color important to the message?” If the answer is no, then you have an excellent candidate for black and white photography.

Let’s consider the flower photograph above. It would have been beautiful as a color photograph as well. But what interested the photographer was the shape and the repetition of form.

By choosing the black and white presentation, the photographer communicated what they found most interesting about this flower. They’ve isolated the essential component!

Critical Thought: When shooting black and white film, the photographer is forced to make all these considerations while taking the picture. As a digital photographer, we have leeway to make these considerations after the fact.

Pro Tip: If you have trouble seeing in tone versus color, buy yourself a pair of sunglasses with the absolute darkest lenses you can find. As you try to determine the levels of tone in a scene, put the sunglasses on. They will help eliminate color and you will see the scene in shades of tone.

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Shahin Khalaji

The image above is an exquisite use of texture in black and white photography. The texture would be completely overwhelmed in a color photograph. It would still be there—however, the color of the model’s eyes, skin and nails would overtake the texture as leading points of interest.

When you look at this photo, what do you notice first, and then where do your eyes return to linger? It’s the texture of her skin!

I think the texture is the magic element in this portrait. It humanizes this woman.

Now that you’ve learned what elements to look for in a black and white photography subject, and how you can better communicate a specific type of message with black and white photography, let’s talk about the second skill—the conversion process of turning color to black and white.

color tones

Graphic by Kent DuFault

When color is converted to black and white, the conversion process considers the tone and not necessarily the hue. This means greens, blues and reds of the same approximated tone can convert to the same approximate shade of gray in black and white.

A bit of nostalgia

Black and white film photographers use colored glass filters on the front of the lens to control how the film would behave toward the various colors of the spectrum.

  • Red filters block blue and green, darkening blue skies and lightening red objects such as flowers
  • Green filters block red, lightening green objects such as foliage while darkening red flowers
  • Blue filters block red, yellow and orange; blue subjects, such as the sky, will lighten, while red objects will turn almost black
  • Yellow filters block blue, darkening blue skies for better contrast to clouds, and lightens red, orange, green and yellow subjects. This filter is often used to lighten skin tones in black and white portraits
  • Orange filters work similarly to yellow—blues become darker and all warmer tones appear brighter than green

Consider this: It’s essential to understand how colored filters work on black and white film. You will use that same knowledge to convert your digital color files to black and white!

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Shahin Khalaji

Let’s take this full-color image and convert it to black and white while applying the different filters to see how the image is affected.

black and white photo tutorial

Black and white conversion

This first example is a black and white photograph—with no filtration or adjustment by me—as determined by the Photoshop algorithm.

Below, we have the same picture with four different filters applied during the conversion. It’s pretty clear how a color filter can change your black and white image.

black and white photo tutorial

Filters

Let’s look at another example with a different type of subject matter:

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Jason Blackeye

The above image is our full-spectrum color landscape image. Below, we have a black and white photograph, with no filtration or adjustment by me, as determined by the Photoshop algorithm.

black and white photo tutorial

Black and white conversion in Photoshop

Knowing how color filtration will affect your black and white conversion is critical to producing pro-level work in black and white photography.

black and white photo tutorial

Filters

This is why I am not a fan of presets or actions for black and white conversions. There is too much at stake to leave the decisions up to a computer.

Now, let’s return to the photograph of the Siamese cat for an exciting comparison experiment.

black and white photo tutorial

Black and white

Let’s say I wanted to convert this color picture to black and white, but I still wanted to emphasize the eyes. This first example, above, is a default conversion. As you can see, the software went for a broad range of tones with little emphasis placed anywhere:

black and white photo tutorial

Adjusting sliders

This screenshot is what the default conversion looks like in Photoshop using the black and white adjustment layer feature.

Notice the various sliders with different colors. These have the same effect as the colored-glass filters we discussed earlier.

The algorithm of the software has decided what would be the best settings for those six sliders.

What the software doesn’t realize is that I would like to emphasize the eyes of the cat. So, I need to put my creative input into this conversion.

black and white photo tutorial

Emphasizing eyes

Having my intent for the photograph established, I moved the filter sliders until the eyes became emphasized through the tone conversion.

black and white photo tutorial

Conversion with eyes emphasized

Above is my photographer-approved conversion of the color image file.

Let’s look at the two side-by-side.

black and white photo tutorial

Default vs custom

You can see a vast difference. My understanding of color to black and white conversion has improved this photograph and cemented my intent into the minds of my viewers.

Proper exposure in black and white

black and white photo tutorial

Original photo by Andreea Chidu

Have you heard of the phrase, “Shoot to the right”?

Shooting to the right tells us that an overexposure error is better than an underexposed one.

Shooting in RAW makes this statement even more accurate.

The phrase also references the camera’s histogram, where—on the right side of the scale—all the highlights and whites are located.

And in black and white photography, it’s essential to bear this advice in mind as the finished photograph has only tone to rely on.

Lost shadow detail is lost. End of story. This should only be the case if the effect that you’re striving for: deep, dense blacks with no detail.

Practice shooting to the right in your exposures.

The example photos of the model clearly illustrate how effectively the highlights can be adjusted in post-processing with a RAW file.

Let’s recap!

The best subjects for black and white photography have bright whites, deep blacks and a full range of tones in between. An inexpensive  black and white viewing filter, such as sunglasses, will teach you to see in “tone” versus color.

black and white photo tutorial

Photo by Nathan Dumlao

Great subjects for black and white photography will often display strong shapes and textures.

Vastly different colors can convert to very “similar” tones. When converting to black and white, try and separate the tonal values of different color channels.

If the color values present in a scene aren’t particularly interesting, look to black and white as an alternative—only if the scene offers distinct tonal values, textures and/or intense shadows.

Pop Quiz

What filter darkened that sky in the elephant photo?

Now it’s your turn!

Take an afternoon and go for a photo safari. Your assignment is to hunt down subjects that meet the criteria discussed. For each shot, establish your intent for the photo. Write it down, so you don’t forget.

Photograph your chosen subjects while remembering to shoot to the right.

Now convert your color files to black and white using what you learned about color filtration, while emphasizing your original intent.

Have fun!

About the Author:
Kent DuFault is an author and photographer with over 35 years of experience. He’s currently the director of content at the online photography school, Photzy.com.

For Further Training:

Have you ever quickly converted your shots to black & white, hoping to make them “Better”? And the result was bland to say the least? This is a very common occurrence. Knowing how to convert color to B&W with a working understanding of tone and contrast in post-processing is a very different story. This in-depth eBook is designed to cover EVERYTHING you need to know about producing your own powerful and professional B&W images.

black and white photo guide

Better Black & White Photography Guide (See What’s Inside)

Every step is detailed in all three programs: Photoshop, Lightroom, & Elements. But even if you don’t have these applications, there’s enough information in here to help you achieve the same results with the software you already have. It is currently 76% off if you want to check it out.

Deal ending soon: The Better Black & White Photography Guide at 76% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Black and White Photography: A Two-Skill Process appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/VmWBAT1
via IFTTT

sunnuntai 15. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Understanding Black Point for B&W Photography

This article is based on concepts from the Better B&W Photography Guide which is currently on sale.

What is the color black?

It seems like that should be a relatively easy question to answer.

However, it’s not – especially when it comes to black and white photography.

dog photo with arrows to learn about black point

Photo by Fabian Gieske (arrows and text put in by writer)

There are infinite shades of color and tone all around us.

Our brain, through the help of our eyes, categorizes and identifies each object that we view. We look at an object and say, “Oh, that’s black.”

The truth is that there are infinite shades and tones of the color black.

The cute picture of the dog illustrates this idea. What’s black in that picture?

Question

Are all of those points at the tip of the red arrows the color black?

Yes, they are, and that brings up a critical concept in black and white photography.

This concept is known as the Black Point.

If you take a moment and look at the three gray boxes in the puppy photo, you’ll see that there are areas of the dog’s ear, face, and leg that have disappeared into the background. They have quite literally melted away.

This can mean that the Black Point was not appropriately placed, and in this case, I would say that was true.

black point placed intentionally for portrait face only

Photo by Quinten de Graaf

In this second example photo, the woman’s head, neck, and shoulders disappear into the background.

The difference is that in this case, it was intentional for effect.

Knowing how to place your Black Point is a valuable skill in photography (particularly for black and white photography)!

Let’s Define Black Point

The Black Point is the darkest and most dense black area of your photograph. On a histogram, it’s located to the very far left of the scale. When you read that area with an RGB eyedropper, it reads 0,0,0.

portrait with well placed black point

Photo by Huynh Tan Hau

This photograph is a superb example of a well-placed Black Point.

This woman is literally covered in black. Yet notice how you can see detail and texture in her blouse, hair, on the camera, and even under the hat.

Where is the Black Point in this picture?

photo with arrows for black point

Photo by Huynh Tan Hau (arrows put in by writer)

A well-placed Black Point is typically located in a non-significant shadow area within the frame.

Here’s your Quick Tip:

Black Point is vital to your photography, especially black and white photography, as it helps to ensure that you have a full range of tone within your picture!

You place the Black Point by carefully watching the histogram as you convert a digital color file to a black and white photograph. Once you’ve made the conversion, you can further fine tune the Black Point with the Adjustment Brush and/or the Lightroom sliders labeled Shadows and Blacks.

About the Author:
Kent DuFault is an author and photographer with over 35 years of experience. He’s currently the director of content at the online photography school, Photzy.com.

For Further Training:

Have you ever quickly converted your shots to black & white, hoping to make them “Better”? And the result was bland to say the least? This is a very common occurrence. Knowing how to convert color to B&W with a working understanding of tone and contrast in post-processing is a very different story. This in-depth eBook is designed to cover EVERYTHING you need to know about producing your own powerful and professional B&W images.

black and white photo guide

Better Black & White Photography Guide (See What’s Inside)

Every step is detailed in all three programs: Photoshop, Lightroom, & Elements. But even if you don’t have these applications, there’s enough information in here to help you achieve the same results with the software you already have. It is currently 76% off if you want to check it out.

Deal ending soon: The Better Black & White Photography Guide at 76% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Understanding Black Point for B&W Photography appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/QCh6gu3
via IFTTT

lauantai 14. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Photography Basics: Qualities of Natural Light

We all know that we need light to take pictures. If you’re planning to take pictures outdoors during the daytime, you might believe that light is the least of your concerns. While that might be somewhat true, many people don’t realize that natural outdoor lighting has an effect on the overall look of their pictures. Natural light has different qualities. It may have warm tones or cool tones. Natural light can also be soft or hard. The quality of the light that shows in your images will depend on outdoor conditions (weather) as well as the time of day you are taking pictures.

shadows in natural light

photo by kewlscrn

Something else to consider is the fact that sunlight creates shadows. Shadows are a part of nature, but depending on your subject, those shadows could enhance or detract from your picture. Another reason to “see the light” when you are taking pictures outdoors is the fact that the available light influences camera exposure settings that will produce a properly exposed picture. You can’t change the natural lighting outdoors, but paying attention to light will help you make better decisions about how and when you might want to take your pictures.

Cloudy Days and Sunny Days

Direct, bright sunlight on a clear day is considered to be hard light. Depending on the angle and intensity of that light, sharp edged shadows may be cast on your subject. Those shadows work well for some subjects, such as landscape scenes, but a portrait that shows one part of the subject’s face in shadows is usually not very flattering. Bright light and shadows also create more contrast in an image. Pictures with higher contrast will bring out more details in a subject or scene.

cloudy day photography

photo by William Warby

The light on a cloudy, overcast day is not as bright or as hard as the light on a sunny day. Pictures taken on cloudy days have much less contrast than those taken on bright, sunny days. Pictures taken on cloudy days have very soft shadows, if there are any at all. The overall light on a cloudy/overcast day is pretty even, making it ideal for portraits. Take note that pictures taken in shaded areas on clear days will have pretty much the same light qualities as those taken under very cloudy conditions.

Color Tone and Time of Day

Many people don’t think about the color tone that will be in their pictures while they are taking the shots. Yet, as previously mentioned, the color tone in the atmosphere can have a distinct effect on the overall look of your pictures. The color tone on a very cloudy or overcast day is considered to be cool. The overall tone on a cloudy day is slightly bluish and gray. The natural colors of a scene or subject taken on a cloudy day will still show in your images. However, they won’t appear to be as bright or vivid as the same subject taken on a clear day. The colors will appear to be more subdued or cool.

On a clear day, during the hour or two after sunrise, the early morning light has a warm, yellowish color tone. The same is true for the hour or two before sunset. The hour or so after sunrise and before sunset is known as the golden hour(s). Many photographers love taking pictures at these times because of the warm tones, but also because the light is not as hard or harsh as it might be around midday. Since the sun is still near the horizon during these hours, it produces long shadows. However, these shadows are not quite as sharp and hard as shadows produced by midday sunlight. As the sun continues to rise, the warm tones gradually fade during the hours from mid-morning to midday.

golden hour

Photo captured by Oliver Pacas; ISO 100, f/2.8, 1/2500s.

The light at midday is considered to be neutral or colorless (as far as color tone). However, the midday light is the hardest light of the day and produces hard, sharp edged shadows. This type of light may work well for some subjects, but it is probably the least desirable type of lighting for portraits. After midday, the tone of the light in the atmosphere gradually begins to become warmer as we head into late afternoon. We then head toward another golden hour before sunset. All cameras have a white balance feature, which is designed to make sure that anything white in a scene shows as white in the picture. However, depending on your camera settings, it might cause the warm glow to be eliminated from your picture. On the other hand, your camera also has settings that can enhance the warmth or coolness of your images. Check your camera’s manual to see which white balance setting will work best for the effect you want.

Once again, you can’t change outdoor conditions when you’re taking pictures. But you should get to know how natural light affects your photos. There may be times when you have something specific in mind as far as what type of natural light would work best for a particular scene or subject. Now, since you know the main qualities of natural light, you will be able to make good decisions as to how and when you take those pictures.

About the Author:
Keith Jones writes for https://www.easybasicphotography.com/, a site geared towards beginners through serious amateurs who want to learn a little more about basic digital photography.

For Further Training:

Lighting is arguably the most important aspect of photography; but do you know how to use it? These new Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets are designed to help. With critical information on ALL the types of natural light and artificial light you can use. In the spirit of summer, they are currently 80% off today for a Sunlight sale.

lighting cheat sheets

New! Cheat Sheets for Photography Lighting (see how they work)

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, photography cheat sheets can be a valuable resource for improving your skills and taking your photography to the next level. By having all the key information you need in one place, you can focus on what’s important – capturing amazing photos.

Sunshine sale ending soon: The Photography Lighting Cheat Sheets at 80% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Photography Basics: Qualities of Natural Light appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/3gJ8Q46
via IFTTT

perjantai 13. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: Workflow Example in Lightroom

The most common workflow order/steps photographers use in Adobe Lightroom can vary depending on the individual’s preferences, but here’s a general workflow that many photographers follow if it helps:

Related reminder: exclusive deal ending soon for the Lightroom Mastery Guide at 50% Off

lightroom workflow

Photo captured by Mylene Tremoyet

Importing photos: Add photos to the Lightroom catalog by importing them from your camera or storage device.

Culling and organization: Browse through your imported photos and delete any unwanted images. Use flags, ratings, and color labels to sort and organize your images.

Apply metadata and keywords: Add metadata such as copyright information, location, and other details to your photos. Assign keywords to make it easier to search for specific images in the future.

Develop module: Start editing your photos by adjusting exposure, contrast, and other basic settings in the Develop module. This is where most of the creative work takes place.

Apply presets or profiles: Use presets or profiles to apply a specific look or style to your images. You can use built-in presets, create your own, or import presets from other sources.

Local adjustments: Use tools like the adjustment brush, radial filter, and graduated filter to make local adjustments to specific areas of your images.

Detail enhancement: Sharpen your images and reduce noise using the Detail panel.

Lens corrections: Apply lens corrections to fix issues such as distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting.

Transform and crop: Use the Transform panel to straighten and correct perspective issues, and the Crop tool to frame your image to your liking.

Spot removal: Use the Spot Removal tool to clean up any dust spots, blemishes, or other unwanted elements in your photos.

Export: Once you’re satisfied with your edits, export your images in the desired file format, size, and quality for sharing, printing, or archiving.

This is a general workflow, and photographers may adjust it to their preferences or skip certain steps if they are not applicable to their project. The key is to develop a consistent process that works best for you and your photography needs.

For Further Training:

Are you tired of spending hours on end fiddling around in Lightroom Classic and not getting the results you expect? This in-depth eBook is designed to help photographers master Lightroom Classic to its full potential. We were able to arrange an additional 50% discount for our blog readers which ends soon.

lightroom mastery

Lightroom Mastery (Click to Learn More)

Not by droning repetitions of someone else’s editing style, but through teaching you the basic premises of the software using easy to understand, real-world language that will unlock your potential for learning.

Deal ending soon: The Lightroom Mastery eBook at 50% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post Workflow Example in Lightroom appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/T6ny1z0
via IFTTT

keskiviikko 11. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: 10 Lightroom Tools for Photographers to Know

Adobe Lightroom is an essential tool for photographers, as it offers a range of features to help edit, organize, and enhance photos. Here are the top 10 most important Lightroom tools that photographers should know how to use:

Relevant note: offer going on now for the Lightroom Mastery Guide at 50% Off

lightroom tools

Photo captured by Szabo Viktor

Histogram: The histogram provides a visual representation of the tonal range in an image. It helps you assess exposure and make adjustments as needed.

Crop and Straighten: The Crop tool allows you to trim your image to a desired aspect ratio, while the Straighten tool enables you to correct any slanted horizons or lines.

White Balance: This tool is essential for correcting color temperature in your images. You can use the eyedropper tool to select a neutral area or manually adjust temperature and tint sliders.

Tone Curve: The Tone Curve allows you to make precise adjustments to the tonal range of your image. You can control highlights, shadows, and midtones to create the desired contrast and tonal balance.

Basic Panel: The Basic Panel offers controls for Exposure, Contrast, Highlights, Shadows, Whites, and Blacks. These sliders help you adjust the overall brightness, contrast, and tonal balance of your images.

HSL / Color Panel: This panel allows you to adjust Hue, Saturation, and Luminance (HSL) for individual colors. This is useful for enhancing specific colors or correcting color imbalances in your photos.

Sharpening and Noise Reduction: These tools help you enhance image details and reduce noise, particularly in high ISO images. The Detail Panel contains the sharpening and noise reduction sliders.

Lens Corrections: Lightroom has a built-in database of lens profiles that can automatically correct common lens issues like distortion, vignetting, and chromatic aberration.

Graduated and Radial Filters: These filters allow you to apply adjustments selectively to specific areas of your image. Graduated filters are ideal for landscapes, while radial filters work well for isolating subjects and creating vignettes.

Spot Removal: The Spot Removal tool is perfect for getting rid of sensor dust, small blemishes, or other unwanted elements in your images. You can choose between Clone and Heal modes, depending on the desired effect.

By mastering these essential Lightroom tools, photographers can greatly improve their workflow and image quality.

For Further Training:

Are you tired of spending hours on end fiddling around in Lightroom Classic and not getting the results you expect? This in-depth eBook is designed to help photographers master Lightroom Classic to its full potential. It is currently 50% discount for those of you working on your photo editing skills – which ends soon.

lightroom mastery

Lightroom Mastery (Click to Learn More)

Not by droning repetitions of someone else’s editing style, but through teaching you the basic premises of the software using easy to understand, real-world language that will unlock your potential for learning.

Deal found here: The Lightroom Mastery eBook at 50% Off

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post 10 Lightroom Tools for Photographers to Know appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/faYk7pZ
via IFTTT

tiistai 10. syyskuuta 2024

PictureCorrect.com: New Outdoor Backpacks for Photographers

Peak Design has launched its latest product range, the Peak Design Outdoor Line, aimed at enhancing the carrying experience for outdoor adventurers and photographers. This new collection includes backpacks, slings, and modular packing tools, all designed for optimal organization, comfort, and ease of use.

outdoor line

Peak Design Outdoor Line

Addressing Common Outdoor Carry Issues

The Outdoor Line is designed to tackle common challenges in outdoor and photography carry, such as poor fit, bulky harness systems, and limited access to gear. The collection consists of two backpacks, two slings, and a series of packing tools to provide customizable and modular organization. The goal is to improve comfort and accessibility without sacrificing functionality or durability.

Outdoor Backpack Features

At the core of the collection are the Outdoor Backpacks, available in 45L and 25L sizes. These backpacks are built with a low-profile, adjustable harness system featuring shoulder and waist straps designed to distribute weight more evenly. Inspired by running vests, the straps aim to provide a more comfortable carry over longer distances.

The backpacks feature two access points: the Ultra Cinch™ quick-opening top hatch and a large rear access panel. These offer flexibility in packing and retrieving gear. External storage is enhanced by the Cord Hook™ carry system and Flex Pockets™, which accommodate items like water bottles, tripods, and clothing.

Outdoor Sling Features

The Peak Design Outdoor Sling is available in 7L and 2L sizes and is designed for versatility. The slings can be worn either cross-body or around the waist, with a padded, removable strap and quick-adjustment hardware.

outdoor sling

The 7L version can hold a Peak Design X-Small Camera Cube, making it suitable for carrying a camera, while both sling sizes can be attached to the Outdoor Backpacks for additional storage.

Compatibility and Durability

The new products are fully compatible with Peak Design’s Camera Cubes and Ultralight Packing Cubes, allowing users to configure their storage for a wide range of outdoor gear or photography equipment. Built to withstand rugged conditions, the bags feature PFAS-free recycled Terra Shell™ fabric, Ultra Zips™, and ultra-durable, slash-resistant UHMWPE cording.

camera cubes

Availability and Pre-Orders

The Peak Design Outdoor Line is available for pre-order through a Kickstarter campaign, running from September 3 to October 15, 2024. Pre-order discounts of 20-25% off MSRP are offered during this period, with prices ranging from $59.95 to $329.95. Products are expected to ship in January 2025, and the line will be available through Peak Design’s website, Amazon, and other retailers worldwide starting in late November 2024.

Kickstarter pre-order offer found here: Peak Design Outdoor Line

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Photography, like any art or skill, thrives on consistency. The journey to becoming an adept photographer is paved with regular practice. Learn how PictureCorrect Insiders can help.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This post New Outdoor Backpacks for Photographers appeared on PictureCorrect.



from PictureCorrect https://ift.tt/RbJF5DV
via IFTTT