Photoforum Photography Challenge 2011-7

[Grandpa]

Getting started in photography, did anyone ever tell you not to shoot into the light? Or "always shoot with the light coming from behind the camera." Or, maybe you're intimidated by the idea of pointing the camera towards the light.

Well, if you practice that philosophy, you are missing out on some wonderful image opportunities. Contrary to popular belief, the use of backlight or backlighting (where a light source is behind the main subject), is a technique that can produce wonderful images.



If you ignore backlighting you might miss some of these opportunities:

•backlight can add drama to an image
•backlit images can show the delicacy of a subject (think transparent or translucent things like flowers or insects)
•backlight can help create real mood in a shot
•backlit images can highlight details on the edges of subjects
•backlight can reveal textures that might previously have been hidden
•backlit images can show off the shape and form of a subject
•backlight can create shadows that add points of interest to an image



So, for the next couple of weeks, look for opportunities to take advantage of backlighting. Look for translucent subjects. Look for silhouettes. Look for long shadows and intriguing textures. Take advantage of backlighting to produce more interesting and dramatic images.

The rules:

1. Only photos taken during the challenge period should be posted.
2. Limit of 2 pictures per post for this topic.
3. Discussion of technique and/or inspiration is encouraged!
4. Remember - this is NOT a contest - no voting, no prizes - other than better photos!

Have fun - take pictures - look for backlighting!

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[NikonJon]

Taken in the local church grounds.

Black and white suited the image better than colour in my opinion. Not great but a start

[Grandpa]

I like it! I think monotone was a good choice.

[willard3]

[Grandpa]

Willard -

[watergirl]

Well we're off to an excellent start!

I went out last night since the sun was shining for a change, and I'm very grateful to this challenge because I wouldn't have taken any of these if I wasn't looking specifically for backlighting.

[watergirl]

One final image, not a flower this time. This is some new growth on a sumac. Not only was the sun behind it but it was reflecting on the slightly choppy lake. I took this just to find out how the lake reflection would look in the background.

[kbColorado]

You guys are GOOD

[Grandpa]

Nice work, Marie!

[watergirl]

Thanks Dane I think I've just become a huge fan of backlighting.