DAY 1: Natural & Practical Lighting
Window Light Control
Window light is one of the most powerful and free lighting tools. Side lighting creates depth and texture. Front lighting reduces shadows. Backlighting creates glow effects. Students must learn how to position subjects relative to light direction.
Controlling light means controlling mood. Soft window light can make products look premium and natural.
Project Connection:
Students will shoot their product campaign using window light and experiment with placement for best brand feel.
Diffusion & Reflectors
Diffusion softens harsh light. This can be done with sheer curtains, white paper, or inexpensive diffusers. Reflectors bounce light back into shadows. Foam boards work well for this.
These techniques reduce harsh shadows and make products look polished.
Project Connection:
Students will build a simple DIY light setup and refine their product images before editing.
Avoiding Mixed Color Temperatures
Different light sources have different color temperatures (warm indoor bulbs vs cool daylight). Mixing them creates strange color shifts that are difficult to fix in editing.
Students should aim to use one consistent light source per shoot.
Project Connection:
Students will practice identifying color temperature issues and correcting them before final campaign photography.