Lesson 7: Size Matters

In this class, we experimented with light sources of different sizes. The main takeaway from class is:

Smaller and farther away = harder shadows and contrasty light (think of the sun)

Bigger and closer = softer shadows and light (think of a cloudy day)

Things to consider:

• Think about the size of your light from your subject’s perspective.
• You can change your light’s relative size by moving it closer or farther away from your subject.

Remember, quality of light directly affects the emotional feel of your image. Make specific decisions about what equipment to use and what size your modifiers need to be in order to create compelling photographs.

Demo: With the light was 5 ft away from subject first we had the subject stand as close as possible to the wall and observed the effects of different sized light sources.

Notice that as the source becomes bigger the cast shadow becomes more diffuse.

Next we moved the subject 5 feet from the wall (light is still 5 feet in front) and tried the same light sources. 

Notice that as the source becomes bigger the cast shadow becomes more diffuse. Also notice that the background stays relatively the same value.

Last we experimented with trying to get two light sources of different sizes to appear the same/create the same effect on the subject by moving them closer and farther from the subject. 

Production stills by Christine Krescholtek