Lighting can make or break your mobile photography, so learning how to use it to its fullest potential is essential to take higher-quality photos that translate well on small and big screens and enable you to take creative images. These techniques will allow you to use light creatively.This article discusses five ways to use TV lighting to improve mobile photography.
Diffused Lighting
Consider using diffused lighting when photographing using your phone. Diffused lighting is beneficial because it softens shadows and helps evenly illuminate your subject. Start by finding a large surface like a table or wall, then set up two lamps with their bases on either side of your device. The key is to keep them at different heights, so you’re casting more than one shadow in each direction.
You can also try placing one lamp behind your device and another in front. That will cast an even amount of light across both sides of your subject. You can contact tv lighting design losangeles for a perfect design for your mobile photography needs and top-notch TV lighting designs.
Use a Wall or A Reflector
If you’re trying to take good pictures of small objects, look for a big object nearby—perhaps a wall or even an empty box—and place your mobile in front of it. That helps bounce light from one large surface into your phone camera. The idea is that larger surfaces reflect more light than smaller ones, making it easier for your camera’s sensor to capture images.
You can achieve similarly great results by propping up a white sheet behind your mobile device and angling it slightly toward you. Just be sure not to block any lights with your hand or body when taking photos. Also, try using bright natural lighting if possible; sunlight tends to be less harsh than artificial lights like fluorescent bulbs.
Use Color to Create Interest
Any video you shoot will benefit from a strong color palette. Complementary colors in nature—like blue and orange or yellow and purple—can help to add visual interest. If you don’t have these complementary colors in your scene, you can use props and other items (like food) as part of your color story.
For example, if you’re shooting an interview with someone with a red shirt, it might be interesting to place them next to something green or another shade of red. That provides contrast and creates visual interest for viewers. The same rule applies to lighting: Avoid using all white lights because they tend to create harsh shadows that make subjects look flat.
Use Multiple Light Sources for Depth
That is a biggie. Most people are so used to working with lighting setups that include a single light source—the sun or flash—that they often overlook all their options when adding light in post-production. Suppose you want your photos to look like it was an experienced pro behind the mobile phone camera. In that case, learning how to leverage multiple light sources within your composition is essential.
For example, if you have one key light coming from your subject’s left side and another from their right side, add a rim light on each side. That will create depth and help separate your subject from any background elements. Of course, there are many other ways to do so as well. Even using reflected light can add tons of dimension to your image. And don’t forget about color temperature! A superb light source like LED lights can make skin tones look much more natural than a warm light like incandescent bulbs
Add Some Distance
If you’re trying to create a moody photo with a lot of depth, try adding distance between your subject and background. Using an umbrella or large diffuser as a lighting modifier can help separate your subject from their surroundings. Even just a few inches can make all the difference! Remember that reflective surfaces—like water, glass, or mirrors—can cause unwanted glare on your subjects if they are too close. Make sure to adjust accordingly.
When using a mobile device for photography, think about how you want to compose your shot. Will it look better cropped? Do you need more room around your subject? The best way to get familiar with framing is by playing around and experimenting with different distances between yourself and your subject.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for that perfect selfie or video call with your family, there are many considerations when finding a good lighting situation. With these essential factors in mind, you can look like a star and be more comfortable during your next video chat! However, consider hiring a lighting designer if you need a more professional result for your one-time event. A skilled lighting designer will bring their equipment and know-how to use it effectively—and have experience setting up lighting so they can capture your best side. Happy filming!
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