This week's assignment "
Shadows" relates to our last one, Contrast. Usually when we are taking our shots, we try to eliminate shadows caused by uneven lighting. This week I want you to consider
Shadows as an element in your composition. Look for the direction of the sun or use artificial light to create patterns and bring out details. Watch for the interplay of light and dark to give your shot some drama or use shadows to create a mood. If you are outside, think about what time of day would give you some deep and interesting shadows. If you are doing a portrait, how could you light a face to create shadows to create definition without harshness? There is only one shadow shot I DON"T want you to do: a picture of your shadow on the ground. That's too easy! But shadows
on you, like my avatar, are a possibility.
Some interesting reading:
5 Tips for Using Shadows
Using Shadows
Proper use of shadows and lightings
As always, rules:
Please note the change in closing time.
Just a note to new posters: DO NOT start a new thread for your post. Please just hit the reply button at the bottom of any current post and put your image there.
1. Your original image you submit should be taken between the 16th of September and the 30th of September. Each week as an assignment closes on the Wednesday, it will be AUTOMATICALLY deemed *CLOSED* after 8am GMT ( 3am EST) and any posts after that time will not be eligible for the assignment competition.
Don't wait until the last minute to post!
2. Your post must include "Assignment: Shadows" (to show your permission to count it for the contest) and
the date the picture was taken (to show that it is a valid entry)
.
3. EXIF data should be intact. It helps if you can include the main points (including camera, lens, date taken, ISO, shutter speed and aperture) in the text of your message.
4. Only one entry per member (if you can't restrain yourself until the end of the first week you can post two or three separate pictures but your entry should be in a separate post and the only marked with the text above). It must be an original image taken by you.
5. Remember the cross-site image size limit (800px on the longest side).
6. If the image does not exist in post at the end of the contest, it is disqualified. If you modify anything on flickr and re-save the image then the link is broken and the message needs edited to link the picture again before it will be included in the contest.
For everyone, please do not repeat other people's photos by quoting them until the contest is over. If you want to comment on or discuss an entry you can use a link to it (or just delete the picture from the quoted text).
7. If you are looking for the winners of the mini-contest, please check the front page of the
DPS blog Saturday late afternoon (EST) and
here.
Our upcoming assignment?
Collections. Most of us have something we collect: seashells, coins, antique what-cha-macallits, etc. Find a way to display and shoot them in a way that makes them interesting. Keep in mind what you have learned about lighting, shooting from different angles, depth of field. Does your collection look better in color or black and white? Would adding a human element make it more compelling? Perhaps an unusual environment will make it stand out. See if you can infuse some personality into your grouping.
I'm looking forward to seeing some great collections!