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With black and white as with color,
photographing people in a studio gives total control over the lighting.
For black and white photos, look for lighting that gives a good tonal
range, or an unusual directional light that will give a striking
effect.
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Getting the right exposure is just as
important with black and white as it is with color. Before taking any
pictures in a studio try to work out the effect that is wanted. This
will inspire confidence in the sitter. They will be put at ease if they
see the lights and equipment being handled in a confident manner.
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Learning to use the lights
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Explore the effect that one light can
have on someone’s face. If it is placed at an angle of 45 degrees to
their face, set medium high so that the shadow falls between the nose
and half way down the upper lip: the effect will b e reasonably
natural. If the light is straight in front and higher, there will be
heavy shadows under the eyes, nose and chin. A light set below the face
pointing upward will give a ghostly look. Practice, and a keen eye for
where shadows fall, will soon make it easy to achieve a desired style.
Once the basics have been mastered, all that is needed is a little
imagination.
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