Practical Artistry: Light & Exposure for Digital Photographers

134 Using Light

Side Lighting

Side Lighting

Side lighting, as the name implies, is light that pre-

dominantly hits the side of the subject. The source of

this light is to the left or right of, and either in front

of or behind, the camera. If side lighting comes from

behind the subject (rather than behind the camera), it

can verge on back lighting (pages 136–137).

Side lighting is strong lighting, with a distinctive

character. This lighting creates shadows and strong

contrasts. Patterns and textures come to life. Volumes

and shapes are clearly delineated, and the three-

dimensionality of the world is very apparent.

When the source of side lighting is behind the camera,

highlight blow-out can be an issue. In any case, side

lighting is not subtle. It is harsh, dramatic, and renders

delicate colors without great sympathy.

Side-lit photos of landscapes taken early or late in the

day can be very dramatic, but they will include dark

shadow areas. These shadows themselves are an im

-

p

ortant part of any side-lit photo.

If your idea is to let the shadow areas go black, then it

certainly makes sense to expose for the brighter areas

of the photo. On the other hand, if you are concerned

about preserving details in shadow areas, you should

plan to expose for the lighter end of the shadow area

spectrum. In any case, many side-lit photos require

post-processin ...