Sophia with Candle 1
My granddaughter Sophia posing for a Advent project.
My granddaughter Sophia posing for a Advent project.
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Nov, 2014Views
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Awards
Top Shot Award 21
Legendary Award
Contest Finalist in Anything Fire Photo Contest
People's Choice in Most Awarded People's Portrait Photo Challenge
Contest Finalist in Candle Light Photo Contest
Winner in THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Photo Challenge
Superb Composition
Peer Award
Top Choice
Outstanding Creativity
Absolute Masterpiece
Superior Skill
All Star
Magnificent Capture
Emotions
Impressed
Top Ranks
Top 30 rank week 1
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Top 10 rankTop 10 rank week 1
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Behind The Lens
Location
This image was taken in my kitchen. I improvised a background with a blanket.Time
This was taken in the evening at Christmas. My granddaughter was visiting.Lighting
I wanted to explore a single source lighting. I used the candle to provide warmth and softness. I blocked all other light to provide the contrast between the light and dark.Equipment
I used my Nikon D5000 and a tripod. I chose to use the candle in a clear glass candle holder so my granddaughter could hold the light close and be attracted by the moving flame.Inspiration
It was Christmas and I associate candle light with Christmas. My granddaughter also was at that age where her innocent wonder showed every time we turned on the Christmas tree lights or lit Christmas candles. I was also inspired by images of the Nativity with the light of a single fire lighting the scene.Editing
Mainly I adjusted the light to adjust the exposure to balance the candle and the shadows. I increased the saturation for the candle light.In my camera bag
I have my Nikon D5000, three lenses ( my 18-55 Nikon lens, my 16-85 landscape lens and my 55-200 telephoto lens). I carry 6 neutral density filers, a polarizing filter and a UV filter. I have a remote shutter, cleaning supplies and a charger. I have my tripod strapped to the bag. I always have spare lens caps as I have lost a cap or two in the wilderness.Feedback
I try to keep portraits free of distractions, so I used the lighting and backdrop to help keep the focus on the candle. I rarely use a flash, preferring natural light for its warmth . I thought through what emotional tone I wanted and what subject (model) could best express that. My granddaughter was old enough to follow directions and young enough to pose naturally. I made sure all the prep was done and ready so she had to spend the least amount posing.
