Challenge III
SILHOUETTES & SHADOWS
SILHOUETTES are created when a subject is positioned against a strong light source, such as the sun or bright artificial lights, rendering it dark and featureless. Unlike shadows, silhouettes represent the subject itself, often reduced to a solid, two-dimensional outline.
• Shoot Against a Strong Light Source
Position your subject between your camera and a bright light source like the sun, sunset (the golden hour).
• Expose for the Background
To achieve a clean silhouette, meter for the brightest part of the scene (the sky or light source) rather than the subject. This will ensure the background is properly exposed while the subject remains dark. Shooting in manual mode or adjusting exposure compensation negative helps achieve this effect.
• Look for Distinct Shapes
Silhouettes work best when the subject has a clear, recognizable outline; bicycle, umbrella, hat, etc…
• Use Simple and Clean Backgrounds
A smooth, uncluttered background—like an open sky, horizon, or a lit-up wall—will make your subject stand out more dramatically.
• Focus on Strong Poses or Movement
A silhouette of a person walking, jumping, or holding an object often adds energy and interest to an image.
• Edit for Contrast
In camera or with post-processing, enhance the silhouette by increasing contrast and adjusting shadows to make the subject darker.
SHADOWS are a powerful creative tool in street photography, transforming ordinary scenes into compelling visual stories. Shadows also lend themselves to abstraction and minimalism. A shadow cast on a textured wall, for instance, can evoke curiosity or suggest a hidden narrative.
• Look for Contrast
High contrast scenes with strong light and deep shadows make the shapes stand out
• Experiment with Angles
Shoot low to the ground or from a higher perspective to exaggerate shadows
• Focus on Shapes and Patterns
Pay attention to how shadows interact with textures, surfaces, or other objects.
• Observe and Wait
Once you find a place where shadows can be seen, be patient and anticipate where they will fall to capture the decisive moment.
• When shooting your own shadow, make sure some other element makes it more interesting.