Lighting 101: Direction of Light | Bergen County Photographer
The direction of light creates a sense of shape and texture in images by controlling the width of the shadows. The shadows convey tridimensionality on an image. As a photographer you can control the direction of light by moving your camera in a circle around your subject and you will see how the direction of light changes as you move.
The Lighting Compass
By observing the lighting compass we can understand how the light changes as we move the camera around the subject
On camera or aligned with camera: The light us coming straight over your shoulders or on your camera. This light is typically flat and have no significant shadows.
Angled towards the subject (45°): 45° is a great angle for a lot of situations because it creates shadows and bring out the shape and texture of your subject.
To the side of the subject (90°): Light coming from the side of the subject is very dramatic. The camera will record the subject as being lit on one side and a dark shadow on the other side. This light is great for conveying mystery.
Behind the subject (180°, 135°): Generally used and secondary light, unless you are creating a silhouette shot. Light coming from behind separates the subject from dark backgrounds.
Lighting Compass: Light Aligned with the Camera
Lighting Compass: Light Angled Towards Subject
Lighting Compass: Light to the Side of the Subject
Lighting Compass: Light Behind the Subject