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

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 maximising 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. AUTHOR: David Beckstead was named among "The Top 10 Wedding Photographers in the World" by American Photo magazine in 2007. David has a reputation for being honest and helpful and taking on life with passion and a smile. David is the author of 'The Beckstead Wedding'. He continues to teach photographers and share his hard-earned knowledge all over the world. SELLING POIONTS: Readers will learn how to conceptualize dramatic shadow-intensive portraits of individuals and wedding/engagement clients Readers will learn how to produce compelling shadow effects in the studio and on location Readers will learn how to use commercially available "cookies" (light modifiers designed to create evocative shadow patterns) and create home-made implements to produce similar high-contrast lighting looks Readers will also discover techniques for using household items (e.g., window blinds, hair combs, flashlights, and more) to throw interesting shadow patterns on subjects and scenes