The word photography means “drawing with light,” which makes sense as finding the right light is a vital aspect of composing a good photo. But just as important as light, is shadow. Many people think of shadow as merely a byproduct, however it can be so much more. Within a photograph, shadows provide the contrast and depth that light alone cannot provide, giving an image a more interesting composition.
Shadows can completely change the look of an image if you know how to use them. Click through the gallery to find out how to use shadows in your own photography, and get inspired along the way!
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Texture
Shadow creates texture in a way that light cannot. It can not only give the viewer a better idea of what the subject looks like, but what it feels like as well.
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Golden hour
Golden hour is just a little bit before sunrise or sunset, and is so named because it casts everything in a golden glow. While it’s a great time for light, it’s also a great time for shadows. Since the sun is so low, you can photograph long shadows.
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Silhouette
You can’t photograph silhouettes without shadow! Use the sun or artificial light to create unique outlines of people or objects, so you’re focusing on the form and not the little details.
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Add color
While many think of shadows as black, they don’t have to be. Use semi-transparent objects such as balloons, umbrellas, and stained glass to create colorful shadows.
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Use soft light
If the edges are blurred between light and shadow, that’s referred to as soft light. If you want more of a blending effect in your photos, experiment with soft light.
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Experiment with neon
Using colored lights can create an interesting distinction between light and dark. You can get them as close or as far away as you want, to create more or less contrast.
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Street lights are your friend
Don’t have access to neon lights? No problem! Use street lights instead. Use the overhead lights along a road or use the shadows cast by your neighbor’s porch lamp.
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