An Exquisite Portrait, Opposing Forces and More!

Welcome to the weekly Light Stalking community wrap up!

I'm literally sitting on the ground while writing this newsletter, and I realised something curious about contrast in our photography. If something defines our most-beloved craft as anything close to language, is the use of contrast for highlighting that to be said on the shot.

Now, what exactly is contrast?

If you're familiar with my words, then you'll know I love etymological definitions. However, I feel inspired and just triggered focus mode on my text editor so I won't look this up. Contrast, by definition, should have something to do with opposing stuff. Not necessarily forces as the last call we got from Diane; but something close.

Personally, I think the clearest examples of opposing forces are those depicting contradictions like light and shadow, smooth vs harsh textures or linear patterns mixed with organic shapes. For example, the interplay between bright and dark tones deliver immediate visual tension. This is a clever use of chiaroscuro to represent uncertainty, ambiguity or any other duality you might think of.

Off-photography topic, a group of graduate students are using textures and sensorial measurements for designing some interesting candy. Now, this got me thinking about the textural contrast one can incorporate to an image when opposing sensorial surfaces like rough against smooth, organic against geometric or dense against sparse. Also, opposing directional elements pulling from one end of the frame to another, helps create some nice visual tension. And if complimented with analogous colours, things will escalate to the next level.

Remember, all our challenges remain open so we can all thicken our notions about these visual concepts. Feel free to participate with images using bright and dark tones, directions, colour, juxtapositions and scale!

Photo of the Week

This is the work of a true master of light and there's very little to be said. The engulfing feeling of this portrait is exquisite, and the main reason I can think of for it being so daunting and mysterious. Also, I dare to say this shot works as a fine example of how one can break the rules and go for a centred approach while still avoiding a dull result. Perfect framing, excellent use of light and a true winner indeed.

Thanks Pat for delighting us with your immense talent!

Weekly Photography Challenge Digest

Thanks again to Diane and Dahlia for pushing our creative boundaries one step forward every week!

For contributing, check out the original challenge post!

A Highlight on the Latest Activity at our Community

Robert Apple shared one of the most breathtaking landscapes I've seen in a while, such a beautiful contrast and sharp details all over the frame:

He also stumbled upon this light wing feather from a ring neck pheasant while taking a walk:

And Patrick delighted us with a series of charismatic self-portraits:

Don't forget to check the photo contest winners for Color Theory in Practice; and remember, this month's photo contest is now open for entries. The theme is “Visual Metaphors“. Submit your photos for a chance to win $250 and please don't forget voting as well. Last but not least, keep an eye out for the Members Picks — the instructions are pretty straightforward:

Members reference what you might consider a five star photo. Give a call out to the photographer and share their photo even if it lies in the Shark Tank and feel free to give a Critique on why it trips your Trigger. Be sure to mention the photographer and the Thread you saw it in.

And if you want to make out the most of your LightStalking user account, make sure to check the latest posts. Also, don't forget to swim the Mobile Monday Challenge! Last but not least, Check out the current reading throwdown, it has some nice insights and recommendations!

We'd Love To Hear Your Thoughts

Our Feedback Forum is a fine place for all those people wanting to grow fast as photographers. Here, you'll get your work reviewed by well-intended photographers, but you'll also have the chance of commenting on the work of others. We believe in the power of feedback, and here are the latest shots shared in the pool:

The Shark Tank is a great place to learn and to discuss, but please read the instructions in order to get a better experience. Share your comments, opinions and doubts on any or all of the images above. We also will be delighted to see some of your own images. Remember all comments are given to the photographs; not the photographers. Also, don't forget to participate in our upcoming challenge!