Composition and Lighting

The rule of thirds is a compositional guideline that divides the frame into thirds, both horizontally and vertically. The four points where the lines intersect are considered to be strong compositional points.

Leading lines are lines in a composition that draw the viewer's eye to a focal point. They can be created by roads, rivers, fences, or any other long, thin object.

Negative space is the area of a composition that is not occupied by the subject. It can be used to create a sense of balance, depth, and mystery.

Hard light creates harsh shadows, while soft light creates soft shadows. Hard light is more directional than soft light. Hard light is more intense than soft light.

Front lighting is when the light source is in front of the subject, while back lighting is when the light source is behind the subject. Front lighting creates a flat look, while back lighting creates a dramatic look. Front lighting is more flattering than back lighting.

Side lighting is when the light source is to the side of the subject, while top lighting is when the light source is above the subject. Side lighting creates a sense of depth, while top lighting creates a sense of flatness. Side lighting is more dramatic than top lighting.

Fill light is used to fill in the shadows created by the key light. Fill light is usually softer than the key light. Fill light is usually placed opposite the key light.

A reflector is used to bounce light back onto the subject, while a diffuser is used to soften the light. A reflector is usually white or silver, while a diffuser is usually translucent. A reflector is usually placed opposite the light source, while a diffuser is usually placed between the light source and the subject.

A softbox is a portable light modifier that creates soft, even light. An umbrella is a portable light modifier that creates soft, diffused light. A softbox is usually more expensive than an umbrella.

A snoot is a light modifier that narrows the beam of light. A gobo is a light modifier that creates a pattern of light. A snoot is usually used to create a spotlight effect.

A scrim is a translucent material that is used to diffuse light. A flag is an opaque material that is used to block light. A scrim is usually placed in front of the light source.

A bounce card is a white or silver card that is used to reflect light back onto the subject. A reflector is a portable light modifier that creates soft, even light. A bounce card is usually smaller than a reflector.

A light meter measures the intensity of light. An exposure meter measures the amount of light that reaches the film or sensor. A light meter is usually used to determine the correct exposure settings for a camera.

A histogram shows the distribution of tones in an image. A waveform monitor shows the brightness of an image over time. A histogram is usually used to adjust the exposure of an image.

A color wheel is a circular diagram that shows the relationships between different colors. A color chart is a collection of colored swatches that are used to calibrate a camera or monitor. A color wheel is usually used to create color schemes.