Photographing candles
Candles … Their soft unequal light draws mysterious atmosphere, attracts and entices. Candles is an attribute of romantics, Christmas and New Year. So how should we photograph the atmosphere created by candle light?
Switch off flash
The flash impulse destroys the atmosphere, created by soft candle light. That’s why flash has to be switched off to render charming play of the light.
Use tripod
It’s an evident rule. The candle light is soft, and the scene you’re taking picture of is dark. We will have to set a rather long exposure. In order not to get the photo blurred, use tripod. You can also use timer so the camera vibration after pushing the button stops until the frame will be done.
Extra candles
Use extra candles when you go for portrait. Well the main problem appearing on the portrait survey is lack of light. Extra candles will give more light and control exposure, ISO and diaphragm.
Place candles more singly
The flame of one candle or a group of candles placed close on to other will lead to sharp shadows on the model’s face. The main conclusion is to place more candles on one side than on the other. This will help you create soft side lightening without sharp shadows.
Original reflectors
You can use white table clothes as original reflector. The material reflects some light on the model’s face and exposure only wins thanks to this fact. White walls and sealing have the same effect. In general, such reflectors don’t influence on the frame completely but they help make it a bit better.
Background and surrounding objects
Composition should be simple if you photograph candles. The main thing on the photo is the play of, the atmosphere. You can leave some objects that are natural for the composition. But try not to overload the shot. And it’s desirable not to leave the shadow of the object on your shot.
Exposure
The longer the exposure is the more light gets on camera sensor. But rising the exposure you are risking to get blurred shots, because your model can’t sit completely still. Optimal exposure is 1/8-1/15.
White balance
You can experiment with white balance. Candles give “warm” light and if you manage to catch it on the shot you’ll get that magnificent atmosphere. But if you set it to “auto”, this “warm” light will disappear That’s why you need to try other white balance modes. If your camera allows you should take pictures in RAW.
Composition with candles
In general, there are two methods to build composition: to include candles in the shot or exclude them. Including candles creates one more center of attention that competes with the model. Compose candles so that they don’t draw attention, but don’t let them become “invisible”.
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