MNSilva
FollowExperimenting with high contrast lighting.
Experimenting with high contrast lighting.
Read less
Read less
Views
1278
Likes
Awards
Featured
Contest Finalist in Black and White Selfies Photo Contest
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Superior Skill
Outstanding Creativity
All Star
Top Ranks
Categories
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Discover more photos See all
Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my work room, the room that I have all my "study" tools; my work table, microscope and all my photo equipment. It's in the front of our old farm house. It faces west with many windows and wonderful light.Time
It was taken at night. Best time for me when doing portraiture.Lighting
I was experimenting with light, trying different set ups. I used two old pan lights on on tripods with 100 watt light bulbs. The kinds they used back in the 50 and 60's. I've had them for years. Luckley, the old giant bulbs still work.Equipment
The camera I used was my Nikon d5200 with a 18- 135mm lens. the light was from two Pan lights with 100 watt bulbs, one with filter.Inspiration
I have the classic old poster of Ernest Hemingway hanging in my office, which I have always admired.(both the poster and the man himself) The Photo was done by the pre-eminent portrait photographer of his time, Yousuf Karsh, and was a master of B&W photography. Having a resemblance to Hemingway, I have been called Papa Nick and I wanted to "copy" the style.Editing
The photo was shot in color but I wanted the classic look of b&w. I used Photoshop and Lightroom to touch up. Added contrast and upped the clarity.In my camera bag
I usually have as much as I can carry without it being too heavy. Usually, a couple of lenses, extra batteries, light meter, camera cables, my flash, remote and lens wipes. I believe that is about it.Feedback
My advice to anyone trying to capture something similar is to keep it simple. You could go out and buy expensive equipment but use what you have. They don't even have to be photo lights. Just as long as you can filter or angle them as you need. Pan lights are inexpensive and you can get them at any hardware store or even Wallmart. We all have great and wonderful photographers we like and try to emulate. Use yourself as the model or ask a friend. Take the photo with different lighting situation and, as they say; practice, practice, practice. With digital, we can now take many test shots with have no fear of wasting film.