NZPhotographer Issue 43, May 2021

GOLDEN HOUR
Left & middle: Placing the sun behind the model creates a backlit effect, separating them from the background. The model was then lit from the
front with flash, centered (left), or with a continuous light source to one side (middle).
Right: The model poses side-on to the setting sun. Observe how the angle of light in the middle and right images shapes the models more than the
centered flash in the left image.
Models: Monnie Jay (left & right) and Emma Malone (middle).
Because of the directional quality of the light, golden hour is ideal for testing how light shapes your subject.
However, you only have a short window of time and you must be careful not to let it slip away. Plan ahead
as much as you can. Scout locations beforehand and check where the sun will be positioned using an app
or previous visit. Be aware that you’ll need to set your exposure to balance between your subject and the
brightness of the sky and you’ll likely need to play with recovering shadows and highlights in post. To capture
the most information from the scene, it is best to shoot in RAW format rather than JPEG. It is useful to have an
idea of your camera’s dynamic range (the range of exposure which can be captured) so you know how best
to expose your image e.g. full frame cameras typically have a higher dynamic range (capture more stops of
light) than crop-sensor cameras and therefore can recover more highlight and shadow detail.
SUMMARY
So, what is the best time of day for portraiture? Well, that completely depends on what look you’re going for.
Ask yourself the following questions:
• Do I want hard light or soft light?
• What tools and assistance do I have available to me?
• Do I want to add a creative element?
• Do I want to achieve a particular mood or lighting style?
• What is the weather going to be like?!
I’ve given you the knowledge to capture portraits at any daylight hour, now you need to decide which one will
suit your photos the best. Grab a willing test subject and practice, practice, practice!
BUILD YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE WITH CHARLOTTE'S WORKSHOPS
AND TUITION SPECIALISING IN PORTRAITURE, LIGHTING AND PHOTOSHOP. INVEST IN
YOURSELF! VISIT HER WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. CEJPHOTO.COM
28 May 2021 NZPhotographer