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How to Capture Side Light in Photography

Side lighting is one of the most fundamental and useful types of lighting in photography. Since side lighting creates shadows on one side of a subject, it can be used to create dimension in a photograph. It can be particularly useful for black and white photography, where subtle variations in shadow take the place of color. Whether you are using natural lighting or your own lighting, the technique for capturing side lighting is essentially the same. By learning how to position a light source and capture it effectively, you can add depth to your photographs.

Things You'll Need

Camera
Light source

Instructions

- 1
  Position your subject so that the light source comes from the left or right of the subject. You can add variation to the effect you achieve by offsetting the light source slightly behind or in front of your subject as well, but the main direction should come from one side. Shadow will appear on the opposite side of the subject the light is striking.
- 2
  Avoid overshadowing as you take your photographs. If you are working with man-made lighting, you can reposition the light or reduce the intensity of the light to change the depth and color intensity of the shadows. Wait for the sun to change position if you are working with natural light. Even a slight movement of the sun will cast new shadows.
- 3
  Light your subject with a range of lights to get the best combination of shadows. Bright white light can cause a harsh effect. It is often better to employ two or three softer, less bright lights and build a contrast effect. Position the brightest light farthest away from the subject to build this effect.

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