low key experiment

[malcypants]

Exif:
Camera Nikon D90
Exposure 0.1 sec (1/10)
Aperture f/5.6
Focal Length 85 mm
ISO Speed 200
Exposure Bias 0 EV
Flash No Flash


I have a couple of first goes at low key photography. The backdrop was a dark towel, the subject my hands, the light source was a small table lamp. I think the focus is a little off but would like some comments as to technique, final image, framing etc, basically how can I get better?

[Doug Sundseth]

Normally low-key is characterized by a high ratio of highlight to shadow, not just a dark image. Increase your highlight exposure by 1-2 stops while still maintaining the nice dark blacks to get a better photo.

The easiest way to do that, BTW, is to move a bit further from the background and move the light closer to your hand.

[malcypants]

Originally Posted by Doug Sundseth

Normally low-key is characterized by a high ratio of highlight to shadow, not just a dark image. Increase your highlight exposure by 1-2 stops while still maintaining the nice dark blacks to get a better photo.

The easiest way to do that, BTW, is to move a bit further from the background and move the light closer to your hand.

thankyou for your advice