I talked about large light sources recently, so wanted to give some examples of using small light sources in studio photography to create hard light.
It's something I rarely do, but when the concept calls for it, I really like it. Where large light modifiers give soft and flattering light, small light modifiers (or no modifier) creates hard shadows and punchy, contrasty images. This can be used as a stylistic choice of course, to replicate direct sunlight, or simply for a youthful summer vibe.
Small light sources cast very noticeable shadows, but again, these can be included as a stylistic choice by putting your model up against the backdrop. As a "strobist" enthusiast, I rarely use studio lights, opting instead for small flashes. My modifier of choice for hard light is often a large white bounce card. This gives the shadows a little diffusion, while keeping the light punchy.
As you can see, the light is hard and contrasty, while the shadow isn't overly edgy.
Should you want the hardest shadow possible, you need not use any modifier, and get your model close to the background.
I should add, in case there is any doubt, that in all of these photos, the flashes were places off-camera and triggered with a Godox X1. There is a lot written about the benefits of huge light modifiers to create soft light, but as a stylistic choice, hard light has its place too.
Words & photos @condra
Models: Steph & Unknown
Nikon D750. Sigma 85mm 1.4 HSM. Godox X1/TT685.
Wow the second shot is so candid and amazing :D
Thanks! I wish I could get those kind of reactions more often. Candid shots definitely have a life to them that truly posed shots never achieve.
True those are the best moments to be captured looking forward to see such more awesome shots
I love the one with nerds :)
HEY! Glad you like it :) Thanks for visiting.
the beauty is open out when you take on photo.
Good work! I think light is good in all photos. Maybe in the "pouring candies" image a bit too much candy is covering the face. Maybe :D
Thanks for taking the time to check the pics out and thanks also for your critical feedback. It's always welcome.
Your photos are beautiful
Thanks Anneke. You're too kind always.
awesome click bro looking hot upvote and following u
plz check my blog once and plz try to support me by ut upvote thanks
Cheers. bro.
resteemed bro
try upvote my blog out
thanks
Thanks dude.
Wow, really great photos!
TYVM! Very kind of you.
lovely photography @condra.Thanks for sharing. i like this and following.
Following you back! And thanks for the comment
Nice have to try this by my own :)
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Great photos, wanderful post, thanks
Amazing photography and she is so pretty. And those tattoos are amazing.
wow this is really cool :)
amazing photography
Great photography shots every shot is so nice and unique :)
After years of me shooting 99% in just natural light, I've been playing with lighting a lot recently (see my recent 'road flare' post for an example. This is a useful article for my work with flashes. Thanks! Your final picture in this post, I would not consider hard light though, would you?
Cool shoot, and hard light is awesome i myself am notorious for always leaning towards big soft light but this is cool