Photography

Studio photography

Photographs are often taken in a studio context for portraits, magazines and films. The advantage of studio photography is that you yourself can decide where the light and shadow should be, and which background you want to use. You can also decide what kind of atmosphere you want to convey.

When you take pictures in a studio you need a background, a softbox, a flash and a reflector. A reflector is used to reflect light, and to adjust the light while taking photographs. A softbox is attached to the flash to soften the shot and reduce the shadow. In order to produce the best pictures possible, it is an advantage to have access to a large, bright room where there is plenty of space to set up equipment. It is an advantage if it has a high ceiling so you can take pictures from different angles without getting the ceiling and walls in the picture.

Photo: Constantin Opris_Dreamstime.

Composition

When we want to design or compose a picture we must think about how we put the elements of the picture together. Many people search for a good composition when they take pictures. This is important because the composition determines which element is being emphasised and what message the picture is giving. Pictures can also evoke different feelings. Some can symbolise joy and others sorrow.

When we compose pictures we can think of lines, surfaces and geometric shapes. A diagonal creates movement in a picture. A diagonal leading upwards from the lower left-hand corner symbolises activity and positivity. A diagonal leading downwards from the upper left-hand corner symbolises passivity and negativity. The photographer can thus compose the picture along the diagonal to give the motif a positive or negative atmosphere. See the picture on the right.

A circle expresses something cohesive, without a beginning or an end. This gives a picture movement and reinforces the feeling of firmness and unity.

A triangle can give a picture a feeling of either safety or insecurity. A triangle with one of its sides lying along the bottom edge of the picture will give a feeling of stability and security. Such a triangle cannot be tipped over. A triangle that has its point down towards the bottom edge is shaky and can tip over. This gives the picture a feeling of insecurity.