109 - Quality of Light


Canon 5DmkII, 16-35mm at 16mm, iso100, 1/20, 1/6, .7 sec at f/11.0, +CPL Combined in Photomatix

Last night I attended a discussion on the quality of light by professional photographer and artist Michael Thoennes. His presentation helped me better understand that all light, natural or artificial, has characteristics that are universal and with an understanding of these principles of light we can create impactive images with the power to evoke emotion. Michael has a complete understanding of this topic, his presentation was interesting and informative. If you get a chance give him a listen.

All of this reminded me of balancing the three qualities of nature. They are called gunas. Roughly translated as (mass or inertia), (vibrancy or dynamism) and (luminosity or the quality of light). When I am able and I remember to balance these qualities in me my photography is fun and I get better results. When my images convey these qualities in a way that connects the viewer to nature's dance to balance the gunas I am grateful.

Namaste, (The light within me honors the light within you.)

Comments

Marka said…
You've definitely balanced the three qualities of nature exquisitely well in this photo. The view and colors are absolutely wonderful!
August 28, 2009 at 10:36 PM
J. L. T. said…
Yes, Marka is so right: you absolutely balance it!! And I always feel the light within you!! Today I feel you special birthday light and I wish you a
Happy
Happy
Birthday!
May all your dreams come true!!
August 29, 2009 at 2:17 AM
myonlyphoto said…
Thanks so much for your informative post. The image is amazing. Anna :) PS I will make sure to listen to the info.
August 30, 2009 at 7:03 PM
Thomas J Avery said…
Great scene. I love the colors and light. I wish there were a few rocks or something in the lower right to help balance things out and complete an "X" pattern on the diagonals. But, it's a great scene anyway :-)

One thing I've been chewing on quite a bit in the past year is that a lot of photographers are focused on light, and in particular, they're after the bright, golden light of early/late day. That is all well and good, and many spectacular photos have been made in the "golden hour".

But wonderful photos can be made anytime, even if it's overcast and no direct sunlight exists. All you need is a tiny bit of light, however dim :-)
September 1, 2009 at 8:41 AM
Sehraeuber said…
wow ... stunning colors and composition ... you must be in paradise!
September 3, 2009 at 2:57 AM
debra trean photography blog said…
Not just the light but those clouds are AMAZING
September 10, 2009 at 12:43 AM
Michael Harris Photography said…
Thanks all for your comments,
TJ, I agree any light any time, for me its the experience of "capturing that moment" and having a connection with the universe...
September 13, 2009 at 8:23 PM
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