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07/17/2003 01:25:49 AM · #1 |
I have been attempting to a create a photo where the entire photo is black expect for one object that is lit! It is a very popular way to shoot a photo, and I understand the basics of it, but am having trouble with lighting it properly! Right now I'm using a desk lamp, and by using tinfoil can somewhat control the directness and direction of the light. Unfortunately it's not providing the desired affect. The black fabric that i am using is still being lit, and the object doesn't seem to have enough light, and is hard to see! What do I need to do to make this work right?
Lee |
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07/17/2003 01:42:02 AM · #2 |
My personal trick is to shoot the light from above or below at the object, perhaps from right under the camera. The subject should be a reasonable distance from the background. The further the better, as long as you don't run out of room.
Being able to control the camera properly helps a lot. A really low F number and faster shutter (provided your subject has sufficient light to accomodate this) will help. Don't think the stylus cams have that much manual control though.
//www.dpchallenge.com/image.php?IMAGE_ID=20845
//www.dpchallenge.com/image.php?IMAGE_ID=18084
The first image I used the flash. The second image all the light used when making the shot was one flashlight.
I think is imperative to be far away from your background if at all possible and also to aim your lights so they shine on the subjects but not on the background. Front lighting is tough unless its pointed up at the subject. If you need the front lit, it may be wise to use 2 lights, one on either side at angles almost parallel to the backdrop so that no part of the light is shining on the backdrop behind the subject. Hope this helps. I'm surely no expert, but this is what has worked for me.
Bob
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07/17/2003 02:17:27 AM · #3 |
Well I have had some good luck. Keep the light off the Background. Softbox with Luvers. It is of utmost importance to be in control of your light when you are trying to black out the background
Look at my Speed shot
John (TurboTech) |
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07/17/2003 03:29:48 AM · #4 |
pretty much everything inspzil said is right on.
i first really experimented with lighting a shot like that for a long ago challenge--wound up being pretty happy with the lighting results.
eros and psyche
it was tricky to try and get right--i pretty much had to use small ap, slow shutter, low iso to get it even close to what i was imagining. lit by a lamp from above--same tin foil trick, and a couple of tea light candles for the front. candles rule for close up work like that. very exact sort of process and i still have alot to learn, but its fun.
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07/18/2003 12:19:54 AM · #5 |
I've been working at what you guys have said and have had only one other problem, i haven't been able to light the object quite enough so that when I select a shutter speed using my manual meter it still says a 1 sec exposure is a little dark. I took this about an inch away from the object. Do i need a brighter more powerful lamp? Mayb two lamps? Right now i'm just using a standard 120V bulb in a desk lamp. Any suggestions?
Lee |
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07/18/2003 12:30:11 AM · #6 |
I am sorry I did not mention I use Pro photo Strobes. So I just adjust my Camera to the amount of light that is produced by my Alien Bee and secondary flash.
John (TurboTech)
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07/18/2003 12:36:46 AM · #7 |
I don't quite understand what some of that means... not use to the lingo! Would you mind spelling it out for me?
Lee |
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07/18/2003 01:07:24 AM · #8 |
Originally posted by Spanish Grease:
I've been working at what you guys have said and have had only one other problem, i haven't been able to light the object quite enough so that when I select a shutter speed using my manual meter it still says a 1 sec exposure is a little dark. I took this about an inch away from the object. Do i need a brighter more powerful lamp? Mayb two lamps? Right now i'm just using a standard 120V bulb in a desk lamp. Any suggestions?
Lee |
hi lee!
hmmm, not really sure--i dont believe i generally use anything stonger than 60 watt bulbs for most of my macro type stuff (usually 25w), so im not sure thats it--although since i dont know exactly what your subject is, it is hard to say! :) without seeing your set up--i can only guess at the closeness of your lighting to the subject. did you check your aperature setting? if you are shooting that close, you can probably go as small as you want. also, is 1 second as low as your shutter will go? tell you what, send me a PM if you want, and maybe i can help further! :)
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