What is chiaroscuro lighting?

Chiaroscuro lighting is a technique that uses a strong contrast between light and dark arears to create dramatic effects.

Why use chiaroscuro lighting?

Chiaroscuro lighting is often used to create a sense of drama, mood, and depth in art and photography. it can evoke emotions, add visual interest, and enhance the overall composition of an image. By playing with light and shadow, chiaroscuro lighting can create a captivating and dynamic visual experience.

Chiaroscuro lighting set up;

Examples of Chiaroscuro photos;

Examples I took in the studio;

What is Butterfly lighting?

Butterfly lighting is a popular lighting technique use in portrait photograph. It involves positing the main light source directly in front of the subject and slightly above their eye level. this creates a small, butterfly- shaped shadow under their nose. Butterfly lighting is known for its flattering and soft illumination. as it helps to minimize shadows and highlight the subjects features. its commonly used in beauty and fashion photography to create a glamorous and elegant look.

Why use butterfly lighting?

Butterfly lighting is often used because it creates a flattering and soft illumination. The positioning of the light source helps to minimize shadows, resulting in a glamourous and elegant look. Its commonly used in beauty and fashion photography to enhance he subjects appearance and create a visually appealing image.

From this photo you can see the clear shadow under the nose that gives butterfly lighting its name.

This is the butterfly lighting set up;

Examples of Butterfly lighting photos;

Examples I took in the studio;

what is Rembrandt lighting?

Rembrandt lighting is a technique named after the Dutch painter Rembrandt. Its the chacterised by a small triangle of light on the subject cheeks opposite the light source, creating a dramatic and shadowy effect. Its often used in portrait photography to add depth and dimension to the subjects face.

Why use Rembrandt lighting?

Many Photographers use Rembrandt lighting because it creates a dramatic and artistic effect in portraits. it involves positioning the main light, source at a 45-degree angle to the subject. creating a triangle-shaped highlight on the cheek opposite the light source. This technique adds depth and dimension to the subjects faces, accentuating their features and creating a sense of mood and atmosphere in the photograph.

Rembrandt lighting set up;

Some example I took in class;

When using lighting you must think of the following when creating a desired outcome:

• Intensity of the light
• Direction of the light
• Temperature of the Light (Warm or cold + white balance)
• use of ” the golden hour”
• Using reflectors (silver/gold)

This is my three favourite photos from this task. They are presented in an art gallery form as a better way to show them off.

I really liked these ones because even before edited i thought they looked better then the rest I also feel like they show very very clearly what the task was a fit in with the inspiration and the environmental portraits.

I like all my pictures but some need improvement the main improvement is probably my photography directing before the photo is taken as lots are the subject looking away from the camera, which isn’t incorrect just not the aim.

For this photo I really liked it and thought it would really work being black and white but I hated how there was a gloomy dark background not making him or the environment stand out enough. I also thought that it would look cool in black and white but to have the subtle vibrancy of red from poppies and his badges so they stand out a bit more.

These are the photos that I picked out of each of my photoshoots because I thought they were the best ones.

Photoshoot 1:

Photoshoot 2:

Photoshoot 3:

Photoshoot 4:

Photoshoot 5:

Photoshoot 6:

Photoshoots 7:

Photoshoot 8:

These one I have picked because I liked them the best and plan to edit them.

What is Environmental portrait?

An environmental portrait is a photograph that depicts a person within their natural or chosen surroundings. The surroundings in the photograph play a vital role in showcasing the personality, character, or profession of the subject. These portraits aim to capture not only the physical appearance of the person but also their connection to the environment.

Why are environmental portraits important?

Environmental portraits are important for several reasons:

1. Context and Storytelling: By placing the subject within their surroundings, environmental portraits provide viewers with a better understanding of who the person is and what their life is like. The surroundings offer valuable context and help to tell a visual story.

2. Personality and Identity: Environmental portraits capture the subject’s personality and identity by showcasing them in a setting that is important to them. This can reveal aspects of their interests, profession, lifestyle, or cultural background.

3. Authenticity and Connection: Environmental portraits can create a deeper connection between the viewer and the subject by showing them in a familiar or relatable setting. It helps to establish a sense of authenticity and allows the viewer to relate to the subject’s experiences.

4. Visual Interest: Including the environment in the photograph adds visual interest and depth to the composition. It provides additional elements such as textures, colors, or patterns that can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the image.

5. Emotional Impact: By focusing on the subject and their environment, environmental portraits have the potential to evoke emotions. They can evoke a sense of nostalgia, admiration, curiosity, or empathy by capturing moments that reflect the subject’s emotions or experiences in their surroundings.

Overall, environmental portraits offer a unique and engaging way to visually represent people within their natural or chosen environment, providing a more comprehensive understanding of their lives and stories.

Mood Board

Mind Map

How do we use environmental portraits?

Environmental portraits can be used in various ways, depending on the context and purpose.

1. Editorial and Documentary Photography: Environmental portraits are often used in magazines, newspapers, and documentaries to accompany articles or stories. They help to bring the subject’s experiences and surroundings to life, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

2. Corporate and Professional Portraits: Environmental portraits are frequently used in corporate settings to showcase employees, executives, or professionals in their work environment. They can be used for company websites, marketing materials, or professional profiles, providing a more personal and relatable representation of individuals within their professional context.

3. Personal Portraiture: Environmental portraits can be used for personal purposes, such as capturing family members, friends, or oneself in meaningful locations. This allows individuals to showcase their personal character, interests, or relationships within their chosen environments.

4. Artistic Expression: Environmental portraits can also be a tool for artistic expression. Photographers can use unique locations, lighting, and compositions to create visually stunning portraits that convey emotions, stories, or conceptual ideas.

What can environmental portraits say about us?

1. Interests and Hobbies: The choice of environment in an environmental portrait can reveal a person’s interests, hobbies, or passions. For example, a portrait taken in a workshop filled with tools may suggest that the subject is a skilled craftsman or artist.

2. Profession and Expertise: Environmental portraits in a work setting can indicate a person’s profession or area of expertise. For instance, a portrait taken in a laboratory may suggest that the subject is a scientist or researcher.

3. Cultural Identity: The environment and props within an environmental portrait can reflect a person’s cultural identity. Elements such as traditional clothing, artifacts, or symbolic objects can provide insights into a person’s heritage or cultural background.

4. Lifestyle and Personality: Environmental portraits can convey aspects of a person’s lifestyle or personality. For example, a portrait taken in a cozy living room full of books and plants might indicate a love for reading and a preference for a relaxed and nurturing environment.

5. Relationships and Connections: Environmental portraits that include other people or significant objects can communicate relationships and connections. A portrait taken with family members, friends, or beloved pets can show the importance of these relationships to the subject’s life.

6. Environment and Values: Environmental portraits can reflect a person’s values and beliefs. For instance, a portrait taken in a natural landscape may suggest a deep appreciation for nature and environmental conservation.

7. Emotional State: The environment and composition of an environmental portrait can sometimes reveal the subject’s emotional state. Elements such as lighting, facial expressions, and body language combined with the surroundings can convey emotions like joy, solitude, or contemplation.

Where am I taking the photos?

My plan is to take the photos in multiple places because we need to take 100-200 photos. Some places I have picked are;

• Basketball court
• Office
• Rugby field
• Market stores
• Dojo
• Dj set

What do I want my subject to do in the photoshoot?

From the inspiration of other environmental portraits I looked at, I want the person to stand in the middle of the frame with their environment clearly behind them, I am going to take quite a few and also want some where the person is very close and clear to the camera but the background is blurred.

Other photos I want to take are of the person looking at the camera because I saw most environmental portraits where like that but also some where the person is actually doing their environment like rolling out the pizza in a kitchen.

What do I like about environmental portraits

Some of my favourite things in environmental portraits I want to try are;

• black and white (once edited)
• looking away from the camera
• natural lighting
• matching clothes
• matching tools

Who will I photograph?

• Friends
• Family
• Work colleagues
• Strangers

I will take my photos;

• Over the weekend
• Half term

Who is August Sander?

August Sander (1876-1964) was a German photographer known for his extensive and influential body of work, particularly his monumental project “People of the 20th Century.” Born on November 17, 1876, in Herdorf, Germany, Sander initially trained as a miner, but his passion for photography led him to pursue a career.

Sander is best known for his portraits, which aim to document and categorize people from different walks of life, reflecting the social and cultural changes in Germany during the early 20th century. His ambitious project, “People of the 20th Century,” commenced in the 1910s and continued for several decades, capturing over six hundred portraits categorized into various social groups, including farmers, tradesmen, artists, office workers, and politicians. Sander’s approach to photography was deeply rooted in the principles of the New Objectivity movement, which sought to depict the reality of society and reject subjective interpretations.

His portraits were characterized by their straightforward and honest representation, often capturing the subjects in their natural environments or workplaces. Unfortunately, Sander’s life and work were disrupted by political circumstances. During the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany, his photographs were deemed “degenerate art,” and he was labeled a “cultural Bolshevik.” His studio and negatives were confiscated, and his work was largely suppressed.

After World War II, Sander relocated to Cologne and, despite his advanced age, managed to rebuild his archives. His work gained renewed attention in the 1960s and received significant recognition in the photography community. He passed away on April 20, 1964.

August Sander’s portraits are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail, objective observation, and their ability to capture the essence of their subjects within the broader context of German society during his time. His work continues to influence and inspire photographers and historians, offering valuable insights into the human condition and social dynamics of the 20th century.

This particular photo exemplifies Sander’s interest in capturing individuals from different social groups and professions, aiming to create an anthropological study of German society during the early 20th century. The photograph of young farmers showcases a group of individuals who are likely involved in agricultural work. Sander’s approach to portraiture is characterized by its straightforwardness and objectivity, aiming to capture the subjects in their natural environments or workplaces. In this image, the young farmers are depicted in a way that reflects their profession and lifestyle, offering a glimpse into the rural life of the time.

Sander’s attention to detail and composition ensure that his subjects are portrayed with integrity and dignity, while also capturing the essence of their work and its significance within the broader social fabric. Whether through facial expressions, hand movements, or the inclusion of culinary elements, such as pastries or cooking utensils, Sander’s photographs would offer viewers a glimpse into the life and profession of a pastry chef during the era he documented.

in this image it very clearly shows his profession due to the environment outfit and his hand movement and objects in his hand.

More of August Sander most famous Images:

Inspiration and similarities with other Photographers –

August Sander’s work has received numerous awards and recognition at exhibitions, establishing him as a highly influential figure among other photographers. His significant impact can be attributed to his distinctive style of capturing black and white photographs within a fixed genre. Many photographers who engage in similar practices are often seen replicating Sander’s approach to photography.

Such as;

Vanessa Winship and Ayls Tomlinson