As you all have probably come to know about me I am a minimalist when it comes to equipment/props. I like to use my natural environment without a whole lot else! In that vein I have had to get creative about how to isolate my subjects without use of seamless papers and backgrounds when trying to get "portrait" shots. One of my favorite tricks is using a window or bright white wall, then basically blowing it out to create a feeling that my subject is "glowing".

It can be a little tricky because you have to make sure that there is also sufficient light in front of your subject otherwise you will end up with a silhouette instead of the look I am describing.

Here is how you set it up:

1. Position your subject in front of either a very light colored wall or a large window. I like my windows that have a sheer linen curtain, because it eliminates any trace of color that may be outside the window.

**Make sure that you have plenty of light also in front of them whether that is another window or facing a light source like the sun or a reflector. Look into their eyes do you see catchlights?

2. Set your camera to spot metering.

3. Take a meter reading from the front of your subjects face and then push your meter a couple stops "over" the middle with your settings. Basically your reading should look like you are overexposing by about a stop.

4. Snap away!

A pictorial of this is coming soon to our Learn By Looking Section. And please share your results HERE!

 

Happy Snapping!

 

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4 comments

  • Comment Link ninali Friday, 21 May 2010 13:55 posted by ninali

    Just stunning! And great advice too! I have been practicing with catch lights and have been getting some decent results. I still need major practice though, but it is amazing what just a little difference it makes when you get it right. :)

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