Emphasizing how to work with natural light rather than using supplementary lighting to create an artificial environment, photographers can use these simple techniques to mold existing light into the desired quality and shape. All situations are discussed, including overcast and sunny days, backlighting and flare, window light, daylight studios, natural reflectors, and studio lighting at home, offering a plethora of ideas for finding, diffusing, and creating light. As photographers learn the advantages of shooting with available light—no set up, more spontaneity, more time to concentrate on the subject, and the ability to capture preexisting relationships—they not only become better photographers but gain confidence and an increased awareness of their artistic medium.
Don Marr is a portrait photographer in Portland, Oregon, creating distinctive portraits with a natural look for models, actors, families, seniors and the business community.
He has taught at the Santa Fe Photo Workshops and at Newspace in Portland. He also teaches online photography classes at The Compelling Image.
He is the author of two books:
Beginner's Guide to Photographic Lighting Techniques and Available Light: Photographic Techniques for Using Existing Light Sources.
