Understanding how light interacts with shadow can transform your landscape images. The ability to recognize and capture high-contrast scenes gives your images depth, drama, and visual impact.
Coming to you from Toma Bonciu, this insightful video focuses on using high contrast to create striking compositions. Bonciu emphasizes positioning yourself in shadow and shooting toward areas of light. For example, when capturing landscapes, he often looks for scenes where light highlights a specific subject while the surrounding areas remain dark. He explains how this technique isolates the subject and enhances its importance in the frame. By exposing for the brightest areas, you create a natural vignette, drawing attention to what matters most.
In forests, this technique becomes even more powerful. Bonciu showcases examples where light filters through tree openings, creating striking silhouettes and depth. He explains how your camera can exaggerate the differences between light and shadow, resulting in a scene that feels both natural and dramatic. This approach works equally well in urban settings, where archways or narrow streets allow you to frame light within darkness. Waiting for a person or a silhouette to enter the lit area can add a human element that elevates the composition.
Bonciu also explores how this technique translates to post-processing. Increasing contrast in editing enhances the separation between light and shadow, making your images even more impactful. He stresses the importance of exposing for the highlights, as this prevents overexposure and preserves detail where it matters most. While some might see this as underexposing the image, Bonciu argues it’s a deliberate choice to focus attention on the light and ignore unnecessary distractions in the shadows.
The video illustrates how dramatic lighting can elevate a variety of scenes, from moody landscapes to cityscapes. In one example, Bonciu captures light breaking through heavy clouds over the Dolomites, creating a natural spotlight effect. Another scene shows a street in Tuscany, where light spills into a narrow alley while the surrounding buildings cast deep shadows. These examples highlight how the interplay of light and shadow creates atmosphere and mood, even in everyday locations.
One key takeaway is to rethink how your camera captures light. Bonciu points out that cameras interpret light differently from the human eye, which is why high-contrast scenes can appear more striking in photographs than in real life. By learning how to expose for these scenes and experimenting with post-processing, you can turn simple compositions into compelling images. 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!”
