A Quick, Simple and Basic One Light Outdoor Photography Tutorial.

Summary

In this engaging tutorial, photographer Jiggy shares essential tips for beginners on outdoor photography using a one-light setup. Filmed during an engagement shoot, he explains how to effectively use a Sony A7R Mark IV and H&Y ND filter to control exposure and maintain ambient light balance. By positioning the flash to match the sun's direction, Jiggy demonstrates how to create flattering light for his subjects, Ruby and Melvin. He emphasizes the importance of trial and error in adjusting flash strength and placement, providing valuable insights that help new photographers enhance their skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start with the right equipment: Use a Sony A7R Mark IV camera and a 24mm f/2.8 GM lens for optimal results in outdoor photography.
• 🌟 Utilize a variable ND filter: This helps control the light entering the lens, allowing for better shutter speed management while maximizing flash power.
• 💡 Position your flash wisely: Place the flash in the same general direction as the sun to create a balanced lighting effect and avoid unwanted shadows.
• 📸 Set your camera to shutter speed priority: Use a shutter speed of around 1/250 sec to maintain proper exposure while shooting in bright conditions.
• 🌈 Underexpose ambient light: Aim for about 1 to 1.5 stops underexposure to enhance the colors in the sky and other reflective surfaces.
• 👫 Direct your subjects effectively: Ensure the lighting favors the bride in couple portraits for the most flattering results.
• 🔄 Test your settings: Take test shots without flash to establish a baseline exposure before introducing flash to your images.
• ✨ Adjust flash power as needed: If the flash appears too strong, dial down the power to achieve the desired effect on your subjects.
• 🧪 Experiment with trial and error: Finding the right flash position and power settings may require some practice, so be open to adjustments.
• 📅 Stay connected for more tips: Subscribe to the channel and follow on Instagram for ongoing photography insights and inspiration.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Jiggy Alejandrino's tutorial?

The tutorial focuses on a simple one-light outdoor flash photography setup, suitable for beginner photographers.

Which camera and lens does Jiggy use for his outdoor photography?

Jiggy uses a Sony A7R Mark IV camera with a 24mm f/2.8 GM lens.

What is the purpose of using an ND filter in this photography setup?

An ND filter reduces the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for a slower shutter speed that stays within the camera's flash sync speed, which maximizes the power of the flash.

How does Jiggy suggest positioning the flash relative to the sun?

Jiggy advises positioning the flash in the same general direction as the sun to create consistent lighting and avoid visible shadows in the shot.

What exposure settings does Jiggy recommend for capturing vibrant colors?

He recommends underexposing the ambient light by about 1 to 1.5 stops to enhance colors in the sky and other elements in the image.

What should photographers prioritize when composing a shot with a couple?

Photographers should prioritize flattering lighting for the subjects, particularly favoring the bride's side to enhance her appearance.

How does Jiggy suggest photographers adjust flash power during a shoot?

He suggests conducting test shots and adjusting the flash power based on the exposure results, increasing power if the flash is too weak or decreasing it if it's too strong.

What is Jiggy's approach to highlight control during a shoot?

Jiggy prefers to control highlights during the shoot because he finds it easier to recover shadow details in post-processing.

What is the significance of the final processed image compared to the initial shot?

The final processed image demonstrates the successful application of lighting techniques, enhancing color and detail compared to the initial shot without flash.

What does Jiggy invite viewers to do at the end of the tutorial?

He invites viewers to ask questions in the comments, subscribe to the channel for more tips, and follow him on Instagram to see more of his work.