Hey stranger!

For this new blog post, I wanted to take on the concept of Contrast. First, I needed to understand what contrast actually means and then how can it be expressed in photography, especially Portrait Photography. But, to start this process, I think we need to understand what contrast is, at a human level and where do we see it. This understanding will help us know how to then apply or look for it in our photography.

What is contrast?

At a human level, contrast refers to the difference between two things or ideas. This can include the difference between light and dark, hot and cold, or good and bad. Contrast can also refer to the way in which two things or ideas differ from one another, such as in terms of size, shape, color, or texture. Opposing conflict between ideas, this is the easiest way to grasp the concept of contrast.

Contrast can be a useful way of thinking about and understanding the world around us. For example, by comparing and contrasting different objects, ideas, or experiences, we can better understand their similarities and differences and gain new insights and perspectives. By understanding both sides our judgement becomes more powerful, complex, and develops depth, which consequently give us, as humans, a complete perception of reality.

In everyday life, we encounter contrast in many forms. We may experience contrast in our physical environment, such as the contrast between the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the shade. We may also encounter contrast in our social and cultural experiences, such as the contrast between different religions, cultures, or political ideologies. So, when you think about the concept of contrast lives in every form of life and the ideas that construct our social system and natural environment.

What is contrast in Photography?

Phew! Now that we can understand the concept of contrast at a human level, we can explain it in photography terms. Contrast is a fundamental concept in many areas of art and design, including photography. At its most basic level, contrast refers to the difference between two elements, such as light and dark, color and black & white, or texture and smoothness. Doesn’t it make sense now that we understood contrast at a human level? In photography, contrast is used to draw the viewer's attention to specific elements within the frame and to create a sense of depth and dimensionality. When we start looking at the world for contrasting views, our photography becomes richer and dynamic.

Contrast can be achieved through a variety of techniques, including the use of lighting, color, and composition. One common way to create contrast in photography is through the use of high-key and low-key lighting.

High-key lighting is characterized by bright, evenly distributed light that creates a sense of openness and airiness. Usually, High-key lighting is used for a more commercial aesthetic, since it gives a sense of happiness and creates a sense of safety in its environment. The emotions given by High-key lighting are pleasant, softness, safety, welcoming, and many more positive emotions. Knowing the emotions that a lighting technique can evoke, can easily help us setup a contrasting emotion through other elements.

Low-key lighting, on the other hand, is characterized by deep, dark shadows and a limited range of tonal values, creating a moody, dramatic effect. Usually, this lighting technique is giving a set of sad emotions or a sense of drama in how the subject is feeling. The mood created by Low-key lighting can affect the environment in which the subject is situated and can be used to create a conversation about the character and personality of the subject. I personally float between both High-key and Low-key techniques and use them accordingly. The decision always comes down to the concept I developed for the photo session.

Another way to create contrast in photography is through the use of color. By using contrasting colors, such as red and green or blue and orange, photographers can draw the viewer's attention to specific elements within the frame. In addition to using color to create contrast, photographers can also use the intensity of color to create contrast. For example, a photograph that is dominated by bright, saturated colors will have a high level of contrast, while a photograph that is dominated by muted, pastel colors will have a lower level of contrast.

Composition is another important factor in creating contrast in photography. This is one of my preferred techniques to create contrast, after lighting. By positioning elements within the frame in relation to each other, photographers can create a sense of balance or imbalance, leading the viewer's eye to specific areas of the photograph. For example, by placing a light-colored subject against a dark background, photographers can create a high level of contrast and draw the viewer's attention to the subject. By deciding where you want the viewer’s eye to be, you are taking a contrasting approach towards reality. You, as a photographer and artist, are deciding what the reality is inside that universe of your frame.

Key Takeaways

In portrait photography, contrast is an important element for creating dynamic and engaging images.

• By using lighting and color to create contrast, we as portrait photographers can highlight the features and characteristics of their subjects, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.

• In addition to using contrast to draw the viewer's attention to specific elements within the frame, portrait photographers can also use contrast to convey mood and emotion. Using low-key lighting and dark colors can create a moody, introspective effect, while using high-key lighting and bright colors can create a joyful, energetic effect.

• Photographers can also employ the use of composition to also lead the viewer’s attention by deciding what to include or exclude from the frame.

So, now you see the importance of understanding what the concept of contrast is, and which are the key elements that create it. The constant practice of these techniques will increase the natural development of it, which will help you see the world differently. By seeing the world differently, you will be able to enhance your creativity and push the boundaries in your art towards new heights.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! I look forward to sharing more on being a portrait photographer and developing skills.

Stay tuned for my next blog post!

xx, Yeya