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Basically everything that can be seen by
the naked eve, from the light of the early dawn to moonlight, can be
photographed. I much prefer either early-morning light (the two hours
after sunrise) or the late afternoon the two hours before sunset), when
the warmer light of the sun gives a more romantic and appealing effect.
The long shadows cast at these times can also add visual interest to
the photograph.
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The direction of the light in relation to
the camera makes an enormous difference. Most pictures are taken with
the light either behind the camera or to one side of it. Strong side
lighting will emphasize the texture of an object. An altogether
different effect is obtained through back lighting: when the light
source is behind the subject, its form stands out in dark outline as a
silhouette.
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If I have to photograph people outdoors,
I generally prefer to shoot when the sunlight is diffused by a high
overcast, because this gives a soft, pleasing light with good
modulation of tones. Or else I look for an appropriate spot in the
shade. Direct sunlight produces strong shadows, which are too harsh and
“contrasty” for flattering portraits. Not only can the sun make your
subject to squint, but when it is high overhead, the eyes are in shadow
and will come out too dark. If there is no alternative, it is advisable
to use either an electronic flash or flood light to illuminate the
shadow area around the eyes.
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In photographs taken outdoors at night it
is often the bright lights contrasted against the dark background that
provides the dramatic effect. One must, however, be careful not to take
photos when a few dots of light appear against a solid black
background. The best time for night pictures is within half an hour
after sunset, when the sky is still light enough to silhouette the
subject. When one is unsure of the correct exposure for a scene,
bracketing above and below the initial exposure is good insurance that
one correct exposure will result.
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