#lighting techniques

[ninjadeathmedia]

Lighting

Have you ever searched for lighting techniques for film? but all you can find are the same tutorials over and over calling for 3-point lighting.

There are many different lighting techniques some only require 1 light and others as many as 12 or more depending on how large and complex the scene is. The best thing you can do is study films old and new and try to figure out what they did. 1 light can be all you need for a moody dramatic scene.

And let's not forget to add some color, we now have so many RGB LED light options at affordable prices you can find a link to an RGB LED light below

[mikeconphoto]

"Becoming a Professional Photographer: The Truth Behind the Lens" -By MikeCon Photography

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone that I’ve worked with over the years!! When people scroll through my work today, they see the polished final product, the beautiful lighting, the sharp focus, the natural expressions. What they don’t see is the sacrifice, the endless hours, and the relentless hustle it took to get here.

Becoming a professional photographer wasn’t something that just happened overnight. It was years of grit, trial and error, rejection, and constant learning. Photography, like any business, isn’t glamorous behind the scenes. It’s late nights, early mornings, and being your own harshest critic.

I want to share my journey so you can understand what it really took to build MikeCon Photography, and why photographers are some of the best problem solvers out there.

Starting From Scratch: In 2012, I moved from San Diego to Colorado. I didn’t know a single soul. If I was going to make it as a photographer, I had to start from zero.

I passed out business cards to strangers everywhere…in malls, churches, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, anywhere I went. But it wasn’t just about handing someone a card; it was about sharing my passion. Every conversation I had was about photography, because I wanted people to know how much I loved what I did.

Most people would take the card, nod politely, and walk away without saying a word. Some would respond, but only to ask for free shoots. And in the beginning, I did A LOT of free shoots. I worked for exposure, for experience, and to get my name out there. Exposure is all that people would offer me because when you’re on the bottom, that’s exactly how they see you.

But over time, I realized that giving away my work for free wasn’t sustainable. I started turning down free shoots, set real prices, and shifted my mindset from hobbyist to entrepreneur. That was the turning point when I truly began to build MikeCon Photography into a true business, not just a passion project.

Mastering My Craft (And the Business)

Being a photographer is only about 25% taking pictures. The rest? Learning to run a business and solving constant problems.

Here’s what I had to teach myself:

Lighting: Indoors, outdoors, golden hour, harsh noon sun…you name it.

Angles: Finding the most flattering look for each person, every time. Trust me…it varies!!

Editing: Mastering photo editing software that’s always changing.

Gear Knowledge: Knowing every button, dial, and setting on my camera.

Website Development: I built my own website from scratch, due to necessity.

SEO & Metadata: I learned how to get found online.

Social Media: Staying on top of Instagram, Facebook, and whatever new app shows up.

Marketing & Branding: Learning how to promote myself without sounding like a desperate salesman.

Building a Client Base: Turning strangers into clients and clients into loyal supporters.

All while learning how to talk and listen (listening is key!) like a civilian again after years in the military. That transition alone was a learning curve most people can’t imagine.

The Reality of the Industry

Photography is a highly competitive field. Let’s be honest…photographers are everywhere, and many will work for next to nothing just to book a shoot.

To stand out, I had to be relentless. I spent countless hours scouting locations across Colorado, Virginia, and overseas in places like Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and France to give my clients something special.

I had to hustle for every publication, working my way into magazines you’ll find on real shelves in real stores. None of it was handed to me.

And the hardest part? Staying mentally strong through it all. There were days when the rejection, the negativity, and even my own doubts tried to get the best of me. But I kept pushing because this wasn’t just a job…it was my calling.

Finding the Beauty in People

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned? Every person has something beautiful about them. Part of my job as a photographer is to find it , even when they don’t see it themselves. That’s the secret behind my style of photography.

Whether someone is shy, uncomfortable, or feels they aren’t photogenic, I work to bring out the side of them they didn’t even know was there. Understanding and respecting other people’s vulnerability and boundaries is key!

The Entrepreneurial Grind

Behind every great photo is a photographer who:

Worked long, non-stop hours.

Stayed positive in the face of negativity…even their own.

Managed clients, marketing, finances, and creative work.

Learned to adapt to people from all cultures and languages.

Solved problems under pressure.

If there’s one thing I want people to understand, it’s this: photographers are natural problem solvers.

Bad lighting? We fix it. Last-minute location change? We pivot. Camera glitch? We troubleshoot. Nervous clients? We coach and encourage.

Photographers wear a hundred hats at once. We’re artists, tech experts, marketers, editors, and business owners.

And through it all, we still have to bring a positive attitude and connect with people from all backgrounds, cultures, and languages. Diversity is a beautiful thing. Look at my portfolio and you’ll see!!

Final thoughts Being an entrepreneur and a professional photographer is not for the faint of heart. It’s a wild adventure filled with highs and lows, constant learning, and nonstop hustle. Every day brings a new challenge to solve, whether it’s unpredictable weather during a shoot, last-minute client changes, or learning the latest editing software update overnight. The competition is fierce, and the hours are long. You don’t just clock in and out; you live and breathe your craft. But that’s exactly what makes this journey exciting. There’s no roadmap, no guaranteed path to success, just your determination, grit, and passion to carve out your own lane in a crowded industry.

Yet, despite all the long nights and the rejection, the reward is priceless. There’s nothing like the moment when a client sees their photos for the first time and realizes how beautiful, strong, or joyful they truly are. That moment when their eyes light up and they say, “Wow, that’s really me?”; it makes every setback, every struggle, every sleepless night worth it. Photography is more than pictures; it’s helping people see themselves in a whole new way. And to be trusted with capturing those moments, whether it’s a portrait, a milestone, or a magazine cover, is something I’ll never take for granted.

This is MikeCon Photography, born from starting over with nothing, fueled by a relentless passion for storytelling, and built on the mindset of a problem solver who never gives up. My journey has taken me from the streets of Colorado to the mountains of Europe, and the Appalachian area of Virginia, from military discipline to creative freedom. And through it all, the mission stays the same: create something meaningful, inspire confidence in every person I photograph, and solve the challenges no one else sees coming. This is the heart of my work. This is the adventure I live every single day. Here’s a small challenge…If you see and know folks in the images in this blog…feel free to tag them, and share this post to help me reach a larger audience!

[soulfulreadsifb]

My Handbook to Macro Photography: Bringing the Small World to Life

Have you ever looked at something tiny, a bug, a flower petal, a drop of water and thought, "Whoa, that's actually kind of amazing?" That's the magic of macro photography. My Handbook to Macro Photography: Bringing the Small World to Life is here to help you explore that magic, one close-up shot at a time. You don't need fancy gear or years of experience, just a camera, some curiosity and this book.

Inside, you'll learn how to capture the sparkling texture of a frosted leaf, the rich detail in a pile of coffee beans, the delicate pollen on a flower's stamen, or the colorful fizz of a carbonated drink. It's all about slowing down, noticing the details and getting creative with the everyday world.

Whether you're a total beginner or just want to level up your close-up game, this book makes it fun, easy, and totally doable.

[pgheventlighting]

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[automedia-ae]

Lighting Techniques: Mastering the Art of Illumination

Introduction

Lighting is a crucial aspect of videography, as it can significantly impact the mood, atmosphere, and overall quality of your footage. Whether you're a professional videographer or a hobbyist, understanding different lighting techniques is essential to create visually stunning videos. In this blog post, we'll explore the use of natural light, artificial light, and three-point lighting, offering valuable insights for videographers in Dubai.

Natural Light: Harnessing the Power of the Sun

Natural light is a versatile and often free lighting source that can add a sense of authenticity and realism to your videos. However, it's important to be mindful of its limitations and to know how to work with it effectively.

Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and before sunset, known as the golden hour, offers soft, warm light that is ideal for creating a cinematic and dreamy atmosphere.

Blue Hour: The hour before sunrise and after sunset, known as the blue hour, provides a cool, subdued light that can add a touch of mystery or melancholy to your footage.

Diffused Light: Cloudy days or using diffusion filters can create softer, more even lighting, which is often preferred for portraits or close-ups.

Hard Light: Direct sunlight can create dramatic shadows and contrasts, which can be used to emphasize textures or create a sense of tension.

Artificial Light: Controlling the Illumination

Artificial light offers greater control and flexibility compared to natural light, allowing you to create specific moods and effects. Here are some common types of artificial lighting used in videography:

Tungsten Lights: These traditional bulbs emit a warm, orange-toned light that is often used to create a cozy or nostalgic atmosphere.

Fluorescent Lights: Fluorescent lights provide a bright, cool light that is often used in offices and commercial settings.

LED Lights: LED lights are energy-efficient and offer a wide range of color temperatures, making them a popular choice for videographers.

Continuous Lighting: This type of lighting remains on throughout the filming process, allowing you to see the effects of the light in real-time.

Strobe Lights: These lights produce a brief burst of intense light, often used for creating dramatic effects or capturing fast-moving subjects.

Three-Point Lighting: A Classic Technique

Three-point lighting is a popular technique that involves using three lights to illuminate a subject:

Key Light: The main light source that provides the primary illumination.

Fill Light: A secondary light source that fills in the shadows created by the key light.

Backlight: A light positioned behind the subject that separates them from the background and creates depth.

By carefully adjusting the intensity and placement of these three lights, you can create a variety of lighting effects, from soft and natural to dramatic and intense.

Conclusion

Mastering lighting techniques is essential for creating visually compelling videos. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of sunlight or the control offered by artificial light, understanding the principles of illumination will help you elevate your videography to new heights.

Looking for a professional videographer in Dubai? Automedia AE offers top-notch videography services, specializing in capturing stunning visuals that tell your story. Contact us today to discuss your project and learn how we can help bring your vision to life.

[techdriveplay]

How to Master Digital Photography in 2024

In 2024, digital photography continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, blending cutting-edge technology with creative expression. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, learning how to master digital photography is crucial for capturing stunning images that stand out in today’s visually saturated world. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential…

[sixtreemusic]

The Ultimate Guide to Live Streaming for Musicians: Gear, Techniques, and Tips

Live streaming has become an indispensable tool for musicians in the digital era, allowing artists to reach audiences far beyond traditional venues. This medium not only bridges the gap between artists and fans but also opens up new opportunities for creative expression and community building. Recognizing the transformative power of live streaming, our aim is to equip musicians with the knowledge…

[late-night-chai-latte]

Platinum getting her mettle tested

Plat came pretty close in the last Patreon poll, so I figure now's a decent time to post this old pic!

[Bluesky]

[studiocapturelife]

Unlocking the Magic: Cinematic Photography Tips for Beginners

Cinematic Photography Tips for Beginners

Lights, camera, action! Cinematic photography isn’t just about capturing a scene; it’s about telling a story, evoking emotions, and creating magic with your lens.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer looking to delve into the world of cinematic visuals, these tips will help you unlock the secrets to creating stunning cinematic photographs.

Top 7 Cinematic Photography Tips

Here are top 7 cinematic photography tips for you.

Understand Composition: Composition is key to cinematic photography. Be mindful of the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing. Try a variety of angles to give your photographs depth and visual appeal.

Remember, every element in the frame should serve a purpose and contribute to the overall story you’re trying to convey.

Master Lighting Techniques: Lighting sets the mood and tone of your photographs. Experiment with natural light, artificial light sources, and shadows to create dramatic effects.

To regulate the amount and direction of light, think about using diffusers and reflectors. To give your photos more depth and texture, experiment with light and shadow.

Choose the Right Location: Location can make or break a cinematic photograph. Look for interesting and visually appealing settings that complement your subject and story.

Pay attention to details such as architecture, textures, and colors that can enhance the mood of your photographs.

Whether it’s a bustling city street or a serene countryside landscape, choose locations that evoke the emotions you want to convey.

Capture Emotion and Storytelling: Cinematic photography is all about capturing emotion and storytelling. Focus on capturing authentic moments and expressions that evoke emotion in the viewer.

Pay attention to details such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language that can convey a narrative without words.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different storytelling techniques, such as sequential images or capturing a series of shots that tell a cohesive story.

Experiment with Color Grading: Color grading is an essential aspect of cinematic photography that can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of your images. Experiment with different color grading techniques to create unique looks and styles that enhance the cinematic quality of your photographs.

Whether you prefer warm and vibrant tones or cool and muted hues, use color grading to evoke the emotions you want to convey in your photographs.

Focus on Details: Pay attention to the details in your photographs, as they can often make the difference between a good shot and a great one.

Experiment with different focal lengths, apertures, and depths of field to highlight specific details and create visual interest.

Whether it’s a close-up of a character’s face or a sweeping landscape shot, focus on capturing the details that add depth and dimension to your images.

Tell a Visual Story: Every cinematic photograph should tell a visual story. Think about the narrative you want to convey and use composition, lighting, and storytelling techniques to bring that story to life.

Whether it’s a portrait, landscape, or street photograph, aim to capture images that engage the viewer and leave them wanting to know more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cinematic photography is a powerful medium for storytelling and expression. By mastering composition, lighting techniques, storytelling, and color grading, beginners can unlock the secrets to creating stunning cinematic photographs that captivate and inspire viewers.

So grab your camera, unleash your creativity, and start capturing the magic of cinematic photography today!

Are you looking for cinematic photographers for your weddings, pre-weddings, or any events? If yes, then connect with Studio Capture Life for the best cinematic photography in town!

[tempo-takoyaki]

"It would be my pleasure to give you a proper tour and introduce you to everyone."

Here is my full illustration for @svsssbigbang for the fanfiction Night at Cang Qiong Museum by @adventure-waffles! An incredible Night at the Museum x Scum Villain AU! Don't hesitate to also check out the other two artists incredible pieces for this fanfiction: dustmeadowx and qiye!

And since I know that tumblr tends to destroy the quality of my illustrations, here are some close-ups under the cut:

[tradeshowexhibitsdisplays]

Elevate your business by understanding how Lighting Impacts Your Restaurant's Dining Experience. Boost customer satisfaction and foster a memorable dining environment by implementing expert lighting techniques and design strategies. Read more.

[emry-stars-art]

Completely unrelated to TGR but I would like to kindly and politely request more buff Andrew <3 maybe Andrew bench pressing Neil or Neil gushing over Andrew being 💪💪 you know?

You knowwwwww I can’t resist a beefy Andrew. And neither can Neil

Pls someone help Neil order his thoughts. Head empty rn

[spuercrazycat16]

smoking bee

i saw this cool doodle from an ask from @archie-sunshine here with Earthspark Bee not able to handle parenting

he needs one honestly

edit: baby need smoko

[crescentfool]

it's that time of year again...

[kurikorso]

who died and put you in charge?