The word "photography" is made up of two parts; "photo" meaning light and "graphy" meaning to write. In essence, when one takes a picture, he or she is writing to film what¹s captured with light. When photographed under different lighting conditions, the same subject can look totally different.
In these two images of the pelican, one was shot under direct sunlight while the other was made when a cloud passed in front of the sun. The sunlit shot is more striking as it reveals more texture in the feathers, the bird has more of a glow, and the background colors are vibrant. This works because these pictures were made early in the day. Had they been made under midday sun, the sunlit shot would have been too harsh and contrasty. The image made when the sun was obscured by a cloud would have been better. Learning how to read light and knowing what subjects work better under given conditions comes with practice and instruction.
PHOTO: Russell Burden
Subjects that are wonderful to shoot in bright overcast conditions are flowers, people, details, muted colors, and forests. Direct sunlight, especially early and late in the day, is fabulous for landscapes, seascapes, patterns, textures and shapes. The next time you thumb through a magazine, study the quality and angle of light on the subject. When you go out into the field, transfer your newly acquired knowledge to every subject you encounter.
