Understanding Light-based and Lens-based media

Principles of Light-based and Lens-based Media

Photography Basics

Exposure: Refers to the amount of light that reaches your camera sensor. It can be controlled through aperture size, shutter speed, and ISO setting.
ISO: Determines your camera’s sensitivity to light. Lower ISOs result in less grain and noise, higher ISOs allow for faster shutter speeds but increase image noise.
Aperture: The size of the hole in the lens through which light enters. Larger apertures (lower f-stops) allow more light in, creating shallower depths of field.
Shutter Speed: The length of time the camera sensor is exposed to light. Faster shutter speeds freeze movement, slower speeds can result in motion blur.

Lighting Techniques

Soft Light: Diffuse light that reduces harsh shadows and contrasts. Achieved through larger light sources, diffusion materials, or bouncing light.
Hard Light: Direct, strong light from a single source. It creates harsh, strong shadows and high contrast.
High Key Lighting: Minimal shadows, lots of light, bright image. Reduces the contrast in a photo.
Low Key Lighting: Dramatic lighting technique mainly using black and dark tones with a high contrast between light and dark.

Framing and Composition Techniques

Rule of Thirds: Divide the frame into nine equal squares. Align the subject at the intersection of these lines for a balanced composition.
Leading Lines: Lines within an image that directs the viewer’s eye to another point in the image, usually the main subject.
Symmetry: An aesthetically pleasing balance of two halves.
Frame within a Frame: Using elements within the image to frame the main subject.

Image Manipulation and Post-Processing

Color Correction: Adjusting white balance, tint, exposure, contrast, highlights, and shadows to achieve a more balanced and natural image.
Dodging and Burning: Lightening (dodging) or darkening (burning) certain areas of an image to add depth and dimension.
Cropping: Removing parts of an image to improve composition or focus on a particular subject.
Filtering and Effects: Applying various effects to enhance or alter the mood of an image.

Whether working with photography, film or other forms of light-based media, remember that skillful manipulation of light is key. An understanding of these techniques and principles will enable you to create powerful visual narratives and express your artistic vision effectively.