Given the fact that this Saturday, 21 December, is the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere, it seemed appropriate to give myself some lessons in lighting.  These ongoing studies in the reaction of light and color help me in all the types of photography I do.

One of the first things I learned through studies like these is that the substance of the background is going to impact the subject.  With fabric, if it is woven in such a way that produces a sheen, it seems to, in my mind, detract from the subject.  Unless you are looking specifically for a shiny background, a flat backdrop is what I am looking for.  In this case, the subject is a humble silk peony shot against a flat black jacket.

peony on black

As always, I shoot from above, from the sides, with the camera canted low, or lens tight on the subject.  There are numerous possibilities, and many outcomes.  Although similar to the first shot, this is a little fuller, with more breathing room.

peony on black 2

Contrasting the same flower on snow renders totally different results.  This is in full shade on groppel.

peony on snow

Putting the flower in morning sun on ice highlights the individual petals a bit more. 

peony on ice

I  thoroughly enjoyed the creativity and words that you - Christina, Steve, TTT, Jean and Sam, Larry and Carol, Lisa, Barbara, Karen, Ingrid, Charlie, Dianne, and Catherine - posted this week.  Thank you!  Enjoy the extra seconds of daylight fall on the land starting on Saturday.

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@