Light: Activity 1

Look through assorted photographic websites and find some examples of subjects lit by hard light and examples of subjects lit by soft light. Describe the effect the light has on the subject’ texture, form and detail, and the overall mood of the picture.

Hard Light Photography

This picture is an example of hard light photography and you can tell
because of how you see the lighting effecting the shadowing on the
subject of the photo. The harsh and dark shadowing in the picture
give this picture a dramatic feel and effect on the viewer. Hard light also
brings out a lot of detail in the texture of the mans face and fingers.

Soft Light Photography

This picture is a good example of soft light photography.
The baby's face is lit up with light in a different way than
the first, making the picture a little more approachable
and is less harsh on the skin texture. The skin looks soft
and flawless and the shadows aren't as defined and dark.