Lighting conditions
Changing the source, amount, and direction of light can
change photographs dramatically. Here are some typical
lighting conditions:
• Light source behind the subject. Avoid placing your
subject in front of a strong light source. If the light
source is behind the subject or visible in the display, the
resulting picture may have weak contrast, may be too
dark, and may contain unwanted light effects.
• Sidelit subject. Strong side light gives a dramatic
effect but may be too harsh, resulting in too much
contrast.
• Light source in front of the subject. Harsh sunlight
may cause the subjects to squint their eyes. The
contrast may also be too high.
• Optimal lighting is found in situations where there is
plenty of diffused, soft light available, for example, on
a bright, partially cloudy day or on a sunny day in the
shadow of trees.