How to Use Natural Light to Direct the Eye through an Image

Our eyes are naturally drawn to the brightest part of a scene first, so we can use this to our advantage when wishing to hold the attention of the person viewing our photographs and let the light and changes in contrast lead them through the image.

It’s up to us to tell the story of what we saw and experienced, what moved us to capture that image?

We see light every day, but do we actually notice it? To create stronger images we need to discover how light interacts with our surroundings.

Over the coming month I plan to explain the use of light in photography with more articles and my Steempower will determine how often I can post, as you can see I have only just started on Stemit and have an empty wallet!

Firstly we have to learn to see like the camera does, that means we have to expose for the highlights and not let the camera over expose the scene.

For stronger looking images and ones with more impact one of the best times to get the camera out is when the sun is low in the sky this will help achieve contrast between the light areas and shadows, this produces layers and depth, in short more interest.

One of the best ways to learn how to use light in photography is to look at the old masters and their paintings; see how they lighten the areas of importance and walk you through their creation.

Using the light to guide the viewer’s eye through an image is not just used in landscape photography, but all genres of photography.

Let’s have a look at how Joseph Wright used light effectively to guide us and hold our attention in this painting.

By using contrast in the painting we are left in no doubt where the main focal point is and are drawn there immediately, this is how we should use light in our images that we create.

We should not just rely on colour as it works with black and white images too. The strong contrasts between the light and dark area works very well at grabbing our attention and making an impact.

Something simple suddenly becomes a subject of interest and we are forced to look at the textures and investigate the shadows, all because of the light falling onto it.

The most important part of photography is firstly seeing the image, next is light and how we use it. Our eyes are the most valuable piece of equipment that we have and learning to see the light is a valuable lesson.

We shall discover more in the coming weeks, but if you want to learn more then read my article on Natural Light and how to use it in photography. https://shrewdphotography.com/natural-light-photography-definition-12-types-and-uses-of/

Next up will be how to use shadows to create depth, mood, leading lines and more. I hope you would be kind enough to join me on this journey and share your thoughts and photos too.