Lighting on a Small Scale

Friday, January 20, 2012

Lighting on a Small Scale

     The best way to learn about lighting is to work with small objects. Small objects have the advantage over large objects in that you need to get close to the small items to see what is happening. Also,you don't need many items, much space, or large reflectors or lights. You can even use daylight!

    My next several instalments on my toy blog:  http://oldantiquetoys.blogspot.com/  will be about slush and rubber toys. The reason that I chose the slush taxi below is because it has such nice details and a simple overall design.

The Finished Result Before Photoshop

The Final result After Photoshop

I used the reflector to block the light on the car, and create the distinct shadow.

When  a cardboard or any other material is used to block light, this tool is called a "gobo". "Gobo" is an abbreviation for "goes between", which in this case is between the light and the small taxi.

The Effect of the "gobo"

I called this reflector # 2. # 1 is really the "gobo"

This reflector adds light to the right side of the car.

The result of reflector # 2 - close up.

The front of the car is dark,so it will need another reflector.

I could have added  a second light, but it's easier to work with reflectors for this particular blog instalment.

The effect of reflector # 3.

It is adding light to the front of the car.

The effect of reflector # 3 - close up

The top of the car hood is too dark.

The effect of reflector # 4.

I broke a major rule of lighting by hand-holding the reflector;

Holding a reflector is a major "no-no" because"

1. You can't see from the camera position what it is doing

2. You can;t duplicate the exact lighting, as your hand will move and you won't be able to get the exact position each time.

3. You will cause camera shake.

The result of reflector# 4.

The image is blurred because my floor is wooden and any movement (holding a reflector) causes the floor to move and vibrate to the tripod.

The sequence of results as small photos.

It's easier to see the changes by viewing several images at the same time.

So thanks, as usual for dropping by.May I suggest actually trying this lighting exercise. You don't have to use antique toys- anything will do, and you'll be surprised how much you'llleanr and be able to do!

Have a nice weekend to everyone, wherever you may be.