Assignment 5: 2-plane still life, low key; working the options

For this week, we will create a two-plane still life, this time with a low-key (or dark) background.

Incident versus reflective metering

We will introduce a second light source, to create a subtle illumination on the background, and learn how to balance the intensity of this light, with that of the main (key) light, using incident versus reflective meter modes. 

Working the options

We will continue to explore how light direction can change the image.

We will also continue to explore how changing the effective size of the light source changes the contrast produced, and closely related to this, the character of shadow edges. Of course, contrast can be further diminished through diffusion, such as with a soft-box. The brightness of the shadows, in turn, is controlled by the use of fill card.

Assignment due dates:

Wednesday 9/29

Individual work, on your own. Bring files to class 9/29

1. Create an appealing and carefully considered 2-plane still life with a low-key (dark)  background. 
2. The surface treatment of the table should be roughly as bright as middle gray... the example with wood, below, is a good one. It should be light enough to reveal the character of the shadows. Color paper (not too dark) would also work, as would wall paper, etc. 
3. Light the background to obtain a slight gradient, spot effect, or blinds effect. Use a modifier such as barn doors or grid spot. The brightest part of the background should be no lighter than a dark gray. Try some also with the background light off.
4. Optimize light direction for the main light. Try all variations.
5. Try all variations of light character/contrast by changing effective size of light source, using grids, barn doors, direct vs. diffused, gobo, etc.
6. Try these with and without fill card

• Soft box medium distance
• Direct light with moderate barn doors
• Grid spot
• Grid spot with tight barn doors
• Soft box far away
• Soft box close
• ...

Examples below show the illuminated background, as well as changes in light contrast (main/key light). Note: The examples below all have the same general light direction. In your work, please explore at least two distinctly different light directions, and run through the varied light contrasts with each.