Understanding how to use light creatively transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary photographs. Knowing how to handle different lighting conditions ensures you never walk away empty-handed, even when conditions initially seem less than ideal.
Coming to you from Toma Bonciu, this informative video explores multiple real-world lighting situations and shows practical ways to use them to your advantage. Bonciu kicks things off by discussing the impact of foreground-to-background lighting, highlighting that even a strong foreground won't fully captivate without properly timed background illumination. He shares examples from sunrise and sunset, pointing out subtle yet powerful ways to direct attention within the frame using natural shifts in light. Bonciu emphasizes the significance of patience, explaining how simply waiting can dramatically alter the effectiveness of your composition.
The video also tackles the common mistake of leaving too early when conditions seem unpromising. Bonciu shares personal anecdotes where staying a few moments longer yielded stunning results, illustrating how rapidly conditions can change. Through examples featuring mist-covered forests at sunrise and dramatic post-sunset reflections, he underscores that successful photography often hinges on timing rather than technical perfection. Additionally, Bonciu discusses experimenting with editing techniques to interpret scenes differently, such as converting landscapes into black and white or partially desaturating certain colors, allowing you to define your own photographic style.
Bonciu particularly highlights his passion for capturing forest scenes. He notes how changes in temperature overnight can lead to beautiful atmospheric conditions, creating enchanting rays of morning light filtering through mist. The forest serves not only as a compelling subject but also as a therapeutic environment, reinforcing photography's role as both art and personal rejuvenation.
Midday photography, frequently dismissed for harshness, also receives thoughtful consideration. Bonciu demonstrates that long exposures can enhance otherwise mundane daytime scenes by adding movement and drama to clouds and landscapes. He illustrates how a seemingly ordinary hut becomes compelling through clever framing and cloud movement, proving there are hidden opportunities even at high noon. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bonciu.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
