Setting Sun
One of the more difficult things for young, aspiring photographers to learn is how to see light. Light is what photography is all about, yet I find so many young students really believe that it is all about locations and subjects. Without quality light, even the most incredible subjects will become ordinary, however with quality light the ordinary subject becomes extraordinary. With every assignment that I give my students we discuss light. Over time, some finally get it, and when they do the quality and consistency of their photographs drastically improve.
This image, Setting Sun, was made practically in my own backyard. The location is less than 10 miles from home, out at the lake. I have spent many mornings and evenings here photographing. I have also viewed hundreds of photographs taken at this same location that look like mere snapshots. Harsh light, no feeling, no mood, no message. The difference is in the light and being able to capture the light in such a way as to bring out the warmth and subtle color nuances that the golden hour brings.
A good exercise to help one learn to see the light is to photograph the same subject at differing times of the day, from pre-dawn to post sunset, then evaluate the images. You will notice how the intensity, quality and color of light changes throughout the day. Knowing how light changes through the day is critical knowledge for a photographer to have. Once you understand how the light changes on a clear day, watch what it does on cloudy or overcast days. The light truly does create a mood and feeling that can transform the ordinary scene into something magnificent and beautiful.
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