Experiment four: Size of main light.
Medium sized light
For this photograph, I used a medium sized light, placing it at a diagonal angle from the model. As you can see, this light creates prominent shadows on the left side of the models face. This isn't the most flattering light as it creates a large shadow beside the model's nose which is distracting.
ISO: 2000
F/ 7.1
Shutter speed: 1/160 sec
Softbox light (Large light)
For this photo, I used a softbox light. The large light leaves the models skin looking soft and natural. In this experiment, the light used proves to be the most flattering for portriats.
F/7.1
Shutter speed: 1/80 sec
ISO: 1250
Small sized light
For this photo, I used a small, long light. As you can see, harsh shadows are hiding the models features on the left side of her face. This isn't the most flattering light because it hides her bright eyes and half of her face.
ISO: 400
F/7.1
shutter speed: 1/80 sec
Reflection:
For this experiment, we were asked to construct an assignment using three different sized studio lights. In my experiment, I was hoping to show the difference the size of a light can make when it comes to shadows and lighting in portraits.
I have to admit, when I first started taking photos of the model, I was struggling to find the perfect camera settings. I shot the photos using the “tungsten light” white balance. This took away the orange tinge the camera was picking up.
I realized the positions of the lights was key for this experiment. I placed my lights diagonally to the left side of the model ( my right ), about one and a half meters away, and took the photos directly in front of her, about the same distance away as the lights. I chose to shoot from this angle because it showed the most shadows on the model's face, which is what I was really wanting to emphasize in this experiment.
I am quite happy with the results I got from this experiment in regards to never having photographed someone using studio lights. I am especially happy with how my "soft box" photograph turned out. It gave me a new vision on what future portrait shoots could look like. Next time I would spend more time experimenting with settings and lighting positions, and change the background colour to something darker.