Mastering Underwater Lighting: Tips and Tricks for Wide-Angle and Macro Photography
Introduction:
Underwater photography is a captivating world that presents unique challenges and opportunities. One of the key factors in capturing stunning underwater images is mastering the art of lighting. Whether you're photographing wide-angle scenes or macro subjects, understanding the principles of underwater lighting and utilizing the right techniques can make a significant difference. In this blog, we'll explore essential tips and tricks for underwater lighting, including strobe positioning and the impact of single vs. multiple strobes, as well as the considerations between constant light and strobes.
1. Strobe
Positioning for Wide-Angle Photography: Wide-angle underwater photography
allows you to capture the vastness and beauty of the underwater world. Proper
strobe positioning can greatly enhance the colors and details in your
wide-angle images. Consider the following guidelines:
a. Positioning
the Strobes: To achieve even lighting and minimize shadows, position your
strobes out to the sides, slightly above the housing, and angled towards the
subject. This helps create a three-dimensional effect and avoids flat-looking
images.
b. Distance
from the Subject: Maintain an appropriate distance between the strobes and the
subject to prevent backscatter caused by particles in the water. Positioning
the strobes slightly behind the housing can help reduce the chances of
backscatter.
c. Wide-Angle
Strobe Placement:
· WIDE ANGLE: LIGHTING FOR THE BIG PICTURE Strobes positioned behind the Dome Port and angled outwards. The light from each strobe needs to just intersect with the subject, otherwise, you will light up the backscatter between the lens and the subject or you will get uneven light on the subject.
2. Strobe Positioning for Macro Photography: Macro
photography involves capturing intricate details and tiny subjects
underwater. Proper strobe positioning is crucial to illuminate the subject
effectively and bring out its fine features. Here's what you need to keep in
mind:
a. A focus light is very important for macro
photography.
b. Positioning the Strobes: In macro photography,
it's often recommended to use two strobes for even lighting and to minimize
harsh shadows. Position the strobes on either side of the housing, angled
inward towards the subject. This creates a soft, diffused light that enhances
the subject's texture. Since the subject is up close, position the strobes close to the camera housing.
c. Adjusting the Strobe Output: Macro subjects can
be quite small and delicate, so avoiding overexposure is essential. Lower the
strobe power or adjust the strobe output to achieve the desired lighting
without overpowering or blowing out the details.
d. Macro Strobe Placement:
· Pivoting strobes for different lighting effects
on close subjects.
1. Strobes can be pivoted in (towards the port) to
increase the light on the subject, being careful of creating backscatter.
2. Strobes can be pivoted out (away from the port)
to decrease light on the subject.
3. Shadows can give more dramatic effects. Strobes
can be moved vertically and horizontally to create shadows.
· Macro Using One Strobe.
1. A Good Starting Point:
a. The strobe centered directly over the port.
b. The closer the subject is to the lens, the
closer the strobe is to the housing & port.
c. Only aim the strobe directly at the subject in
very clear water – when the subject is very close.
d. Both TTL and manual control will work fine.
3. Single Strobe vs. Multiple Strobes:
When it comes to underwater lighting, you can choose to work with either a
single strobe or multiple strobes. Here are some key considerations:
a. Single Strobe: Using a single strobe can be an
excellent option for simplicity and portability. It provides a primary light
source, but you may experience more pronounced shadows and uneven lighting. To
mitigate this, experiment with different angles and positions to achieve the
desired effect.
b. Multiple Strobes: Using two strobes or more enables you to create more even and balanced lighting. With multiple strobes, you can control shadows, reduce backscatter, and achieve greater control over the light's direction. This setup is especially beneficial for wide-angle and macro photography.
4. Constant
Light vs. Strobes: Constant light sources and strobes both have their
advantages and considerations when it comes to underwater photography:
a. Constant
Light: Constant light sources, such as LED lights, offer continuous
illumination, making them suitable for capturing video footage or when
photographing subjects that require longer exposure times. However, constant
light can be limited in terms of power and may not be as effective in
illuminating larger scenes or reaching the desired depth.
b. Strobes: Strobes provide short bursts of intense light, which is ideal for freezing fast-moving subjects and capturing still images with optimal lighting. Strobes have greater power and flexibility compared to constant light sources, allowing you to achieve more vibrant colors, better contrast, and greater control over shadows and highlights.
Conclusion:
Allow me to show you how to process your photographs/memories in my upcoming online training course which I will announce soon. If you have an interest in learning more, send me your email and let me know (bob@robertherb.com).
Visit my website (Robert Herb Photography) to see examples of my work.
I also look forward to all comments and suggestions.
Bob Herb
|
Comments
Post a Comment
Please let me know your comments.