Why light makes all the difference

Edin
November 16, 2014
Pure Photography

Below are four photos of the same species of duck – the Yellow-Billed Duck (the first three are even of the same individual!). What I wanted to highlight with these photos is how much light can change what your image ends up looking like. All of these photos were taken in the morning, and in roughly the same location, but are very different photos. The interaction between the light on the foreground, background, and subject makes the amount of contrast in the image change.

YBD_EAW_7356-EditWEB — Direct, low sunlight through thin mist. Notice the reflection of light from the water on the birds head. The bushes at the edge of the pond were still in shadow, making the background dark.

YBD_EAW_7359-EditWEB — In shade, with sunlight illuminating the hills behind the pond, but not the bushes at the edge of it. The plumage appears much darker, and the bright yellow bill stands out.

YBD_EAW_7375-EditWEB — Scene entirely illuminated by morning sunlight.

YBDAscent_EAW_7793-EditWEB — Sunlight diffused by sheer clouds, level with flying duck. The grey clouds made for a smooth background, and the dark shade makes the bird stand out.

Light is the foundation of photography, and being aware of how light is interacting with the environment is an important aspect to consider when taking photographs. Mornings are my favourite time to get out and photograph, with low warm light. Which of these do you like the best, and why?

Edin

Seabird scientist and conservation photographer working in Aotearoa New Zealand.

This Post Has 2 Comments

Anna
17 Nov 2014 Reply

The second image, bird stands out well, but nice blues and greens fading into each other makes the image feel very tranquil.
1. Edin
  17 Nov 2014 Reply
  
  I like it too, I think the flat light picks out the feather detail nicely.