Not long ago, I had the pleasure of participating in a creative photo weekend and showing a very green photographer some basics of lighting. While she was a darling and seemed to grasp every concept I explained, there were still quite a few misunderstandings that I had to clear up. In this article, I will explain the basic properties of light every photographer must know.
There is a lot of bad information out there, everything from poorly informed lighting tutorials to marketing lies of various companies. I don’t want to list the brands that equate soft light with diffused light, but you know who you are, and it’s shameful. Often, photographers mix up the properties of light as a result of all this bad information. There are four basic qualities of light you can get: soft, hard, diffused, and specular. Moreover, you can’t have soft and hard light, as well as diffused and specular. Those are opposites on one scale. Seeing photographers use diffusion paper to make the light softer is also quite upsetting. No matter how much diffusion you put on a hard light, you will not make it softer. The understanding of distance, falloff, and gradient is missing in a lot of cases. Not to worry though, the properties are very simple to understand indeed if you practice and know what makes the light soft, hard, diffused, or specular. Let’s go one by one.
A softbox can be a hard light source. But a hard reflector can be a soft light source. How is this possible? Well, the softness or hardness of your light is not controlled by the modifier you use per se; it is controlled by how large the modifier is in relation to your subject. Let’s dissect this further.
A softbox is generally a soft light source. It is in the name of the modifier, after all. However, the devil is in the details because while it may be called a softbox, it will only give soft light if it is placed relatively close to the subject. As such, you can create hard light even from a huge softbox, assuming it’s placed at a distance where its relative size will be that of a bare head. Mind you, you’d need a pretty huge distance to do that exactly. A simpler example would be if you look at the shadows that your softbox makes when it is close to the subject, as opposed to when it is far away. The reason we need large and small softboxes is exactly that. In order to make the light slightly harder or slightly softer, in finite studio spaces. If you don’t change the distance to the subject and swap out a 3’ octa for a 5’ octa, the light will get softer. At the same time, it is worth pointing out that the light spread won’t change a bit. However, this is best saved for another article.
Soft light will be characterized by wide shadow edges and generally low contrast. Hard light will have sharp shadow edges and possibly more contrast.
The hardest light you can get is from the smallest light source possible. Such a source can be a hard reflector or better so, a hard-box. A snoot will give off a harder light as well. Contrary to popular belief, it does not have a dramatic effect on the light spread.
This one is a little harder to explain as it is more nuanced. In short, if the material the subject sees is white, the light is diffused; if it is silver, the light is specular.
Specular lighting will be less even. If you want to get a lighting pattern out of your hard reflector, make sure to use it without a diffuser. At the same time, if you diffuse a hard reflector, you will get a much more even lighting pattern, which will remain hard.
If we want to dive deeper, we need to understand the concept of specular and diffuse reflection.
Specular reflection is produced by specular materials, such as metal, or some other smooth surfaces. Specular reflection will be mirror-like. Importantly, mirror reflections are not classified as specular; they are optical reflections. Back to my point, because specular reflections are mirror-like and hence direct reflections, the light produced will travel in one direction. This light will be perfect for bringing out details in your subject.
Diffuse reflection is the opposite of specular. Diffuse reflections are produced by rough, dull surfaces. A diffuser will be a perfect example of that. Although it lets light through, it acts as the ultimate rough surface. Colored white to maximize light transmission, a diffuser bounces and kicks the light around to make it omnidirectional. As the concentrated light beam loses direction, it will become even and won’t travel in such a straight line. As such, diffused light is characterized by less contrast, as well as a wider spread. To keep the light diffused but also narrow, a grid can be used. Crucially, if you want to have diffused gridded light, you need to place the diffusion behind the grid. If you place the diffusion in front of the grid, the effect will be negated.
Having discussed soft/hard and diffused/specular, let’s see how to make combinations of these lighting qualities. Before going further, it is worth mentioning that these are on a sliding scale.
The easiest one to begin with. Simply pick a large modifier with a white surface, or a silver interior, and throw a diffuser on it.
The hardest of the four combinations. It is only possible to make such light with large silver modifiers that accept indirectly mounted lights. Such would be the Profoto giants, true parabolic modifiers, or silver umbrellas. The ultimate soft specular light comes from a Giant 300.
Simply take a relatively small light source such as a hard reflector and put some diffusion paper over it. Works great as a key light as it brings out enough detail while also being very even.
Grab a shiny silver reflector and you’re done!
This is it. Now you know the four basic lighting types and can use this knowledge to create images with intention rather than by using lighting setups from YouTube. With this knowledge, you can be in charge of how much detail your image shows and how you light various surfaces. Don’t forget, everything that you are lighting is just a surface in one way or another. Nothing less, nothing more.
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“Paul, Light My Fire, Palm Springs, CA” (1968), by Kali.
PHOTO BY ESTATE OF THE ARTISTS, COURTESY PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM
Credit to the folks at Palm Springs Art Museum for seizing on the discovery of a trove of stunning experimental photography and organizing this trippy exhibition. As the story goes, Long Island housewife Joan Archibald upended her life in 1962, fleeing to sunny Southern California, taking the Hindu-goddess name “Kali,” and reinventing herself as a photographer. She moved to Palm Springs and became more withdrawn and eccentric while exploring the possibilities of the medium. It wasn’t until 2019 that her daughter, Susan, discovered the bounty of work that would elevate Kali’s renown. Indeed, Kali pioneered approaches in which she used the classic tools of analog photography but manipulated the images in innovative ways that often resulted in a psychedelic effect aligning with the aesthetics of the time. She shot on black-and-white film and placed the prints in her swimming pool, physically agitating them as she applied dyes, paints, spray developer, and even organic material, accord- ing to the museum. After achieving the final mix of colors and textures, she left the prints to dry in the sun — creating truly one-of-a-kind images. The exhibition continues through April 8, 2024.
Mighty Hope Photography, 7am – Good Day Sacramento
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Mark your calendars for the Galaxy Unpacked event on January 17, as Samsung is set to unveil the highly anticipated Galaxy S24 Ultra. Rumors and leaked details suggest that this latest model will feature groundbreaking camera improvements that could revolutionize mobile photography. The key focus lies in a shift from a 10x telephoto camera to a higher-resolution 5x version, promising exceptional zoom quality at various ranges and optical quality zoom at 2x, 3x, 5x, and 10x magnification. This innovative approach to mobile camera tech is set to redefine what users can capture on their smartphones.
Despite the switch to a 5x optical zoom, the Galaxy S24 Ultra assures that there will be no compromise on image quality. Thanks to a higher resolution sensor and improved image processing techniques, users can expect crystal clear images at all zoom levels. The device also plans to activate multi-frame processing at every zoom level, reducing noise and enhancing detail. This, coupled with the introduction of new AI-powered super-resolution algorithms, signifies Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile photography.
Leaked information hints at significant camera upgrades for the Galaxy S24 Ultra. These may include a 200MP main sensor, an 800MP sensor, and improved zoom capabilities. These upgrades aim to deliver higher resolution and better low-light performance, making the Galaxy S24 Ultra a powerhouse in the realm of smartphone cameras. The new camera setup is also expected to feature advanced video recording capabilities with improved stabilization and high frame rates, opening up a new world of possibilities for videography enthusiasts.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra aims to integrate smart technology with enhanced camera features. The upcoming model is expected to include new AI-powered camera features under the name ‘Eureka,’ including Nightography Zoom and Generative Edit functions. The Generative AI, tagged as ‘Galaxy AI,’ will require a Samsung account and internet connection for cloud-based processing. Samsung’s AI enhancements promise to deliver a unique user experience by combining advanced technology with intuitive design.
Beyond the camera, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is set to offer a series of other upgrades. It will reportedly support Super Fast Charging 2.0 and deliver a brighter display for an improved user experience. The device is also expected to offer cutting-edge features such as real-time translation of calls and a new feature that allows users to circle objects in an image to search for them. With a promise of seven years of update support, Samsung is clearly looking to offer a long-term, quality experience to its users.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, with its impressive camera upgrades and advanced features, is poised to make a significant impact on the mobile industry. These enhancements promise to deliver a superior photography experience and establish new standards for other smartphone manufacturers. As the Galaxy Unpacked event draws near, tech enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly looking forward to the official unveiling of the S24 Ultra.
Building on the success of the X90 Pro, launched in the first half of 2023, Vivo continues to impress with the all-new X100 Pro. This sleekly designed smartphone not only boasts a refined profile but also houses a formidable camera setup, showcasing the company’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. Furthermore, the comprehensive suite of ZEISS offerings goes beyond the ordinary, empowering users to capture images with unparalleled depth and artistic flair.
Sleek Profile
Building on its success with the X90 Pro, Vivo maintains a consistent design ethos in its latest iteration. Departing from the conventional, bulky forms of contemporary smartphones, the X100 Pro boasts a sleek and curvaceous design that evokes memories of the Samsung Galaxy 7 Edge and 9 Edge, exemplars of ergonomic design from yesteryears. The front features a 6.78-inch curved display, with the power button and volume controls on the right, and the charging port at the bottom. The rear showcases a prominent, raised circular camera module proudly adorned with ZEISS branding, a company with a century-long legacy in lens manufacturing for photographers.
Upon initial handling, I experienced a slight apprehension about dropping the device, but I gradually acclimated to its feel. Despite its slender profile, the phone’s slightly taller stature posed a challenge in reaching the top of the display with one hand, prompting a preference for dual-handed use. While not marketed as a rugged phone, Vivo adds a practical touch with an IP68 certification, ensuring the device can withstand submersion in fresh water for up to 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 1.5 meters.
Stunning Display
Complementing the overall design is a striking 6.78-inch AMOLED display that seamlessly extends to the edges, delivering a truly immersive content consumption experience. The default selection of 2800×1260 (super definition) resolution ensures crystal-clear content visibility. Users also have the flexibility to switch to 2400x1080p (high definition) resolution, a practical choice for conserving battery life. In line with premium smartphone standards, the Vivo X100 Pro boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, and the Smart Switch feature dynamically adjusts the screen refresh rate based on the specific app or content, contributing to efficient battery management.
Sunlight legibility is commendable, offering a satisfactory viewing experience in varying lighting conditions. The display itself is vibrant, presenting bright and vivid colors, coupled with a responsive touch interface that elevates gaming and binge-watching into delightful experiences. There are no complaints regarding the display, as it delivers exceptional brightness, vibrant colors, and responsive touch functionality.
Top-notch photography
A detailed examination of the Vivo X100 Pro unveils the proclamation of ‘Professional Photography’ prominently displayed on the top panel, while ‘Xtreme Imagination’ graces the area just below the camera module on the rear. Far from mere ornate expressions, these declarations accurately reflect Vivo’s commendable achievement in elevating mobile photography with this device.
The rear camera setup comprises a 50MP ZEISS primary camera with an impressive f1.75 aperture, a 50MP ultrawide camera boasting an f/2.0 aperture, and a 50MP Zeiss APO Floating telephoto camera featuring an F/2.5 aperture. The innovative ZEISS APO Floating camera mechanism allows the lens to dynamically shift forward and backward, facilitating precise focusing on subjects at varying distances. Additionally, the inclusion of ZEISS T* coating significantly reduces lens reflectance, enhancing overall image quality.
But what do all these numbers and fancy terms translate to? Well, a stunning smartphone camera that one is likely to experiment with and frame unique shots.
Most importantly, users need not worry about the specific function of each lens or where to access it, as the intuitive user interface offers a plethora of modes and settings to explore. The default photo mode captures stunning images, and even wide-angle shots impress with no distortion at the edges. Transitioning from the photo mode to the ultra-wide mode is seamless, and the optical zoom extends up to 4.3x, with digital zoom reaching up to 100x. Surprisingly, even at higher digital zoom levels, the captured shots remain sharp and crisp.
The onboard zoom lens excels in delivering noise-free and sharp images, particularly in low-light conditions, where many camera-centric smartphones struggle. Whether indoors with minimal lighting or outdoors under streetlights, the colours appear accurate with no discernible noise, contributing to a consistently impressive photographic experience.
Unlike most phones, where you have to physically get closer to the subject to capture a macro shot, with this device, I could simply zoom in to capture some stunning macro shots. Activating this mode was straightforward; a flower icon appeared at the top, allowing me to toggle into the macro mode seamlessly.
Colour preferences vary among individuals; some prefer the natural results of an iPhone, while others lean towards the vibrant tones of a Samsung. Vivo recognizes this diversity and provides users with the option to choose between Vivid, Textured, and Natural colour profiles, catering to individual colour preferences and enhancing the customization experience.
Diverging from the norm observed in most phones, which typically allow adjustments to background depth, this particular device comes equipped with an array of ZEISS features, offering a rich assortment of focal lengths and styles. The portrait mode supports professional focal lengths, including 24mm (1x), 35mm (1.5x), 50mm (2.2x), 85mm (3.7x), and 100mm (4.3x), each tailored for specific types of shots. For instance, the 24mm is ideal for travel themes and landscapes, the 35mm for portraits and environmental photography, the 50mm for a combination of half-body portraits, the 80mm for portrait photography, and the 100mm for capturing intricate facial features.
Beyond the focal lengths, the device introduces ZEISS Style portraits, including Distagon, B-Speed, Biotar, Planar, and Sonnar, each contributing to distinctive background blur effects. Additionally, there are ZEISS Cine-flare and Cinematic options, providing users with an extensive range of creative choices, all complemented by standard styles and beautification features.
While many flagship smartphones are primarily focused on capturing impressive moon shots, the Vivo X100 Pro distinguishes itself by excelling not only in lunar photography but also in capturing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Unfortunately, my testing was limited by Delhi’s chilly winter and pollution, preventing me from fully exploring its potential in this regard.
Adding to its versatility, the device introduces some noteworthy features, such as the Food mode, catering to food influencers or bloggers seeking to enhance their culinary captures. Another standout addition is the Astro Mode, featuring an AR Planetarium and Handheld Astro mode, catering to enthusiasts fascinated by celestial bodies. In the AR Planetarium, when the camera is aimed at the sky, it overlays stars and constellations, easily captured with a press of the shutter button. Moreover, mounting the phone on a tripod and directing it toward a clear sky with minimal light pollution allows for the captivating capture of the beautiful night sky in Handheld Astro mode.
On the videography front, the Vivo X100 Pro stands out by capturing videos in impressive 8k resolution at 30fps. The voice enhancer setting proves valuable, particularly when a Bluetooth mic is not available. This feature performs exceptionally well in outdoor settings, such as amidst nature, where it effectively captures ambient sounds, even picking up the chirping of birds while recording a video. Additionally, the phone boasts a cinematic mode designed for professional-grade videography.
The 32MP front camera delivers clear and vibrant shots, although it naturally falls short when compared to the quality of shots captured by the rear camera.
Reflecting on the overall stunning camera performance of this phone, I find myself wishing I had it during my recent holiday to Japan, where the clear skies and beautiful skyline would have provided an ideal canvas for this device to showcase its photographic prowess.
Power Packed
Vivo opted for the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset instead of the latest Qualcomm flagship Snapdragon processor for the X100 Pro. Our review unit was equipped with 16GB of RAM and boasted a spacious 512GB of internal storage. Running on FunTouch OS 14 based on Android 14, the user interface appeared clean, with apps neatly organized in the app tray. Whether engaged in extended periods of photography, videography, gaming, or other tasks, the device handled everything smoothly, exhibiting no signs of lag. To effectively manage heat, Vivo incorporated a vapour chamber cooling system into the design.
Supporting all this high-performance capability is a robust 5,400 mAh battery. In my experience with heavy usage involving extensive camera usage, social media engagement, web browsing, gaming, emails, video calls, and more, the battery just managed to last through a full day. By dinner time, a full charge had dwindled to 15 percent. For those with longer days, carrying the bundled charger is advisable. The included fast charger ensures that the phone can be fully charged in just a little over 30 minutes, providing a quick and convenient solution for maintaining optimal battery levels.
Verdict
The Vivo X100 Pro impresses with its emphasis on camera excellence, robust performance, and innovative features. It emerges as a compelling contender in the smartphone arena, and caters to photography enthusiasts and multimedia creators, offering a comprehensive package that stands out in the competitive smartphone landscape.
