Lighting can play magic in photography. A capable photographer is one who can explore the possibilities of natural and artificial lights. An imaginative mind and creative concepts distinguish an excellent photographer from a normal one.
Using dim light, spotlight, natural light, coloured light and shades would determine how the images appear. Ensure to make the best use of lights. For that matter, the moments you capture are the golden memories for a couple and their family. Every image should stand out and pull them into the festivity of their wedding time.
Errors and improper lighting can affect the beauty of wedding photography. It would definitely displease the client. Furthermore, the negative impression created can lead to the end of your career as a professional wedding photographer. Learn to use lighting intelligently. Practice it to perfection, to earn a name among the wedding photographers.
Pre-wedding photoshoots and post-wedding photography would render mesmerizing results when the wedding photographer uses light efficiently.
Explore the Possibilities of Natural Light
Nothing is as magnificent as natural light. A photographer can design the themes and plan poses considering the intensity, direction and availability of natural light. Many a time, wedding photographers may try unplanned concepts. And those may come out excellent when the photographer has enough experience blended with imagination.
A quick study of the natural light and calculation of the effect on the images is necessary. Before you proceed with the shots. We suggest you practice natural light photography, in varying light conditions, to learn the art of using natural light.
When we say about natural lights, you should not expect to click all the photos in the golden hour. Diffusing the sun would become essential to improve the images. Additionally, the shadows should be removed with adequate illuminations.
Using the Available Light Brilliantly
Not only light but also shadow can play a role in augmenting the aesthetic appeal of an image. Available light means anything including sunlight, LED, candles, incandescent light, bonfire, neon lamp and illuminative lighting. The skill lies in utilizing the sources in the right way.
Diffused directional lighting is known to produce stunning outputs. The photographer must be able to use the diffused lighting effectively to add an aura to the results. Being easier said than done, the real game lies in planning the photo sessions during the busy wedding ceremonies and in between them.
The bridegroom may be directed to pose facing the light. A 45-degree angle with the light source might give a more appealing effect. The clients may be asked to face a shaded area, to get the intended result. Usage of available reflectors needs to be tried to gain the best outcome.
Camera Flash
Photographers nowadays don’t prefer camera flash much. Off-camera flashes are trending. Nonetheless, on-camera flash is the best option when you are all by yourself. Situations may arise when the camera assistant is away for some requirement or busy with some other work. You cannot expect the bridegroom’s family members to act as your assistant during such cases.
On-camera flash would be the reliable option in those times. Manual control of the flash settings is advisable if you are using on-camera flash. Smooth lighting can be achieved by deciding the effect of light and adjusting it accordingly.
Diffusing the flashlight is important. Otherwise, it can turn harsh on the subject’s face. Since it is a known thing, photographers can be seen using plastic elements to reflect the light. Instead of flashing it, directly onto the subject’s face. Pre-wedding photoshoots may not require on-camera flashes. As the professional wedding photographer along with assistants would be available at the pre-planned location and pursuing a tailored concept.
LED Panels
Flexibility to use it wherever one wants makes LED panels a preferable option for photographers. It is quite handy and can be fixed on light stands easily. During the busy Indian wedding ceremonies, wherein the photographer would be on the toe, static LED panels play a pivotal role in offering adequate lighting. Placing the light at a 45-degree angle would deliver optimal results.
LED lights are not harsh in general. The subject can face it without any difficulty. Adjust the brightness of the LED panel according to the light requirement. Option to choose from warm and cool lighting makes the LED panels right for wedding photography.
Off-camera Flash
Off-camera flash is more popular than on-camera flash due to the advantages it offers. Soft lighting is easier with the off-camera light facility. Dramatic wedding photography can be comfortably conceived with the off-camera lighting set up. Expert wedding photographers use various off-camera flash modes including off-camera flash with MagMod, Off-camera flash with umbrella, and off-camera flash with softbox. With the popularity of pre-wedding photoshoots, advanced methodologies are also instituted in those photo sessions as well.
You should hire only a proven photographer for pre-wedding photoshoots and wedding photography. Avoid taking the chance of trying a comparatively new photographer, just to save a few bucks. Wedding is a once in a lifetime moment. And the photographer must be innovative enough to augment it with out-of-the-box concepts.