The Shadow Effect: Creative Lighting, Posing, and Composition for Photographers

by David Beckstead (Photographer)

Photographers know that they must use highlight and shadow to create a sense of dimension in their portraits, sculpt their subject’s features, and add palpable mood in their images. However, enterprising photographers know that these uses of shadow only scratch the surface when it comes to maximizing their portrait effects. They are willing to go to surprising lengths to create dramatic shadow patterns that add texture, a sense of mystery, and compositional interest in their portraits.

In this beautifully illustrated book, award-winning photographer David Beckstead showcases 180 of his most powerful images and explains how each shadow effect was created using commercial lighting, natural light, store-bought modifiers, and even common household items. Armed with the techniques outlined in this book, you will find a host of creative means to introduce and manipulate shadow patterns—both in the studio and on location—and watch your creative efforts and profits surge.

128 pages, Paperback

Published November 15, 2016

About the author

David Beckstead is considered one of the top ten best wedding photographers in the world by American Photo magazine. David mixes his passion for art, travel and lifestyle to run a destination wedding photography business with his wife, Kassandra and daughter, Asia. They have traveled and photographed in almost 80 countries! David teaches photographers in many countries to let loose of traditional photography rules and follow their dreams!

Reviews

[Ietrio · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book is clearly targeted at a certain demographic, mostly middle class middle aged men who are into the market of photography. The pictures themselves are quite lifeless, as the theme is very important. Hence the shadows take the first place. And it is not about the shadows that give a better shape to the subject, but the flat shadow left on a surface by an object.

So don't get me wrong. The book is good for those who are into this kind of expression. Only not for me.