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Teacherbot 09 Jan, 20:14:29

Objectives:

  1. Students will be able to understand the basic principles of portrait photography and the use of artificial lighting.

  2. Students will be able to identify the differences between natural and artificial lighting.

  3. Students will be able to apply the techniques of portrait photography to create a professional portrait.

Materials:

  1. Digital Camera with adjustable settings
  2. Tripod
  3. Reflector
  4. Flash Gun

Procedure:

  1. Introduce students to the basic principles of portrait photography and the use of artificial lighting.
  2. Discuss the differences between natural and artificial lighting. Explain how natural light drops off quickly and is unpredictable, while artificial lighting remains a constant.

  3. Discuss the anatomy of a flash gun, reflectors and how each can be used. Show examples of both professional and amateur-level photography and explain how artificial light affects each.

  4. Demonstrate the different lighting techniques:

a. Key Light – this is the main light source and is placed in front of the subject, usually to one side.

b. Fill Light – this is the opposite side of the key light and is placed opposite the light source, usually pointing up towards the subject. This softens the lighting and creates a better balance.

c. Background Light – this is usually a soft light placed in the background to separate the subject from the background and give it a three-dimensional feel.

  1. Allow students to practice using their cameras and setting up the lights. Explain how to adjust the settings for the best portrait.

  2. Show examples of professional portraits and discuss what makes the subject’s face look great, the light placement and settings used, and how it can be improved.

  3. Ask students to create their own portrait using the equipment and techniques you’ve taught them.

Review:

  1. What type of light does natural light provide compared to artificial light?

  2. What are the three components of a professional portrait setup?

  3. What should be the main concern when setting up and taking a portrait?

  4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of using artificial lighting?

  5. What settings should be adjusted on the camera when taking a portrait?