BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Questions

Side lighting

1)If I try to shoot this kind of picture at my home where I do not have a
studio can I simulate this situation with available artificial light? Also does flash
play any role here. If someone can advise me on this aspect that will be very helpful.
I have a Canon AF SLR with 28-80
f/4-f/5.6 variable Canon zoom lens with me.

2) If I have a similar day light situation where light is falling on the face of the subject in 45 degree angle and the other side has the shade should I zoom to the face of the subject and take the meter reading ? My camera has Partial metering mode other than Evaluative and center weighted meter modes. Will partial mode be a better option here.

Thanks..

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September 04, 2001

1) You can simulate side lighting by setting your subject next to a large window. Experiment with placing a reflector, first near the camera at 90 degrees to the window (this will wrap the light around), then opposite the window to bounce light into the shadow side, then without a reflector (this will give you a more dramatic look. When you use the reflector experiment with putting it very close and then try some shots with it farther away.

2) You don't say what kind of film you are using (slide or neg). If you are using slide film meter on the bright side. If you are using b&w film meter on the shadowed side. If you are using color neg film take an average of both sides. In any instance get close (zoom in) to take your reading and if you are shooting caucasian skin open up one stop from the meter reading.

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September 04, 2001

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September 05, 2001

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September 05, 2001

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September 16, 2001