Reflectors change the way light is filtered or directed
Available light cannot be increased or decreased in intensity? Reflectors will help to get rid of unwanted and unfavorable shadows. If you do not have a purpose-made reflector, just use a large sheet of white card or paper and hold it up towards your subject. As light bounces back from it, it will fill in shadows and lower the contrast for a more flattering effect.
Open up to light
To have the maximum success in all available lighting conditions, especially when the level of light is low, it is helpful to opt for fast lenses. Such a lens has a wide maximum aperture, shown by the low f-stops in their names, meaning you can photograph more easily when it is dark.
FUJINON XF18mmF2 R or the XF35mmF1.4 R are great if you need a wide-angle approach, such as for interiors or portraits where the subject’s location is important to the story. If you’re photographing small subjects and close-ups, like food, flowers, or even pets, try the XF60mmF2.4 R Macro. There are many options to choose from which will align with your personal requirements.
White balance is key
Last but definitely not unimportant, pick the right white balance. Different light sources also give different color tones in photos. The white balance setting (WB) is there to help remove the unwanted ones because unlike our eyes, a camera needs some help to adapt to unwanted color tones. This will help to avoid very warm and orange images when for instance shooting in a dimly lit location, like a restaurant or bar. To counteract this, try switching your white balance to ‘Incandescent/Tungsten’. This will cool down the image for a more pleasing and natural look.
Press MENU OK > IMAGE QUALITY SETTING > scroll down to WHITE BALANCE > press OK (or scroll to the right) for multiple settings. You will then be able to move through the different white balance options and see on the screen which looks best. The Q Menu via the Q button on the camera body helps you to quickly access white balance.
If you have not done it yet, then check out our post about taking pictures in low-key light. You might need it as well!
Photos © Martin Kopec & Victoria Wright
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