Skill Focus: Light and Shadow
Seasonal Theme: Autumn
Tip of the Week: Use the low-angle autumn sun to create dramatic silhouettes or long shadows. This can add a mysterious or whimsical touch to your photos.
Challenge
Introduction to Light and Shadow
- Objective: Understand the basics of how light and shadow work in photography.
- Activity: Classroom discussion or virtual meeting to introduce the concept.
- Homework: Research and share one photo that effectively uses light and shadow.
The Golden Hour
- Objective: Learn why the golden hour is the best time for capturing silhouettes and shadows.
- Activity: Outdoor practice during the golden hour.
- Homework: Capture a silhouette or shadow photo during the golden hour.
Camera Settings
- Objective: Learn which camera settings are best for capturing silhouettes and shadows.
- Activity: Hands-on camera setting adjustments.
- Homework: Experiment with different settings to capture a silhouette or shadow.
Composition Techniques
- Objective: Understand how to compose a photo to make the most of silhouettes and shadows.
- Activity: Discuss the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing.
- Homework: Take a photo implementing one of the composition techniques discussed.
Review and Critique
- Objective: Review the week’s work and provide constructive feedback.
- Activity: Photo sharing and critique session.
- Homework: Revise one photo based on the feedback received.
Weekend Challenge: The Autumn Story
- Objective: Create a mini-portfolio of 3-5 photos that tell an “Autumn Story” using silhouettes and shadows.
- Activity: Spend the weekend capturing photos for your mini-portfolio.
- Homework: Prepare to present your mini-portfolio in the next week’s class.
Materials Needed
- Camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or smartphone)
- Tripod (optional but recommended)
- Notebook and pen for taking notes
- Field Notes Job Aid
Additional Resources
Articles or video tutorials on light and shadow in photography
- Examples of iconic silhouette and shadow photography
