Module 6: Lighting

This module provides an objective study of how light functions in photography, covering natural and artificial sources. It examines the sun, weather, and time of day, along with practical methods for shaping light using reflectors, scrims, mirrors, and fill flash. The module addresses safe use of lighting equipment, techniques for lighting people and small objects, and methods for simulating daylight indoors. It also outlines the key characteristics of continuous, tungsten, fluorescent, LED, and flash lighting, including balancing flash with daylight, concluding with standard portrait lighting approaches.

Why This Module Matters

Lighting is an essential ingredient in photography. We dive deeper into the topic. In Module 6, you’ll:

• Understand natural light's unique properties and all its variables.
• Learn about artificial light sources, and experiment combining them with natural light.
• Explore the use of reflectors, light shapers and fill flash on people and objects.
• Learn lighting methods to create various moods and styles.
• Build practical skills using natural and artificial light sources, including continuous lighting.

What You’ll Learn

• Natural Light Properties
  Understand natural light qualities according to the weather and time.
• Artificial Light Properties
  Learn about flash, continuous lighting and how to combine them with natural light.
• Lighting Techniques
  Explore practical lighting techniques to achieve various aesthetic effects.
• Light People & Objects
  Be confident in lighting a range of subjects using reflectors, fill flash and more.

What You’ll Do

• Natural & Artificial Light
  Get familiar with natural, artificial and continuous light and all its properties.
• Create a Self-portrait
  Experiment, draw inspiration from the module content, and create an innovative self-portrait.
• Practice Portraits in Natural Light
  Create portraits applying the theoretical concepts described in the module.
• Practice Portraits with Artificial Lighting
  Practice Artificial light portraits using the knowledge you have acquired.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 6, you will:

• Understand natural and artificial light and all its properties.
• Be confident combining natural & artificial lighting.
• Create attractive portraits using any light source.
• Understand fill flash, reflector and other tools to shape light.
• Integrate lighting techniques into your photography workflow.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert tutors will support you throughout Module 6, helping you unlock the power of lighting techniques. From understanding the principles of natural and artificial light to lighting portraits, objects and more. With their guidance, you’ll gain the skills and understanding of equipment to control light and bring your photography projects to life.