Our Take: Chasing Colour: Exploring Studio Portraits Through a New Lens
The journey into photography often begins with capturing the raw beauty of nature, a practice that hones our observational skills and appreciation for light. For many, this initial immersion is a gentle introduction, a way to connect with the world through the lens. Yet, as our understanding deepens, so too does our desire to experiment, to push the boundaries of what’s possible and translate our evolving artistic vision into tangible images. The pursuit of portraiture, particularly within the controlled environment of a studio, offers a vibrant canvas for this exploration. It’s a space where we can meticulously craft our narrative, manipulating light and colour to evoke specific moods and tell compelling stories, even if that story begins with ourselves.
The aspiration to delve into studio portraiture, especially with the intention of experimenting with coloured light, is a testament to a growing artistic curiosity. The experience of a predominantly blue image, influenced by white balance adjustments in a natural setting, is a fascinating starting point. It highlights how our perception of colour is intrinsically linked to the technical choices we make behind the camera. To translate this desire for vibrant, specific colour into self-portraits bathed in blue and red light requires a thoughtful approach to technique and camera settings. It’s about embracing the creative potential of these elements, transforming the studio into a laboratory of light and shadow.
When embarking on this exciting experiment with a Nikon D750, the choice of lenses offers flexibility. The 85mm f/1.8 is an excellent choice for portraits, providing beautiful bokeh and flattering compression. Alternatively, the 24-120mm offers versatility for wider compositions or tighter shots, while the 70-300mm could be used for more compressed perspectives from a distance. For capturing self-portraits with distinct blue and red lighting, understanding white balance is indeed crucial. Shooting in RAW format is paramount, as it preserves the maximum amount of image data, allowing for significant adjustments in post-production. Manual mode will be your ally, giving you complete control over exposure. Experimenting with the camera's white balance presets, or even setting a custom white balance under each coloured light, will be key to achieving the desired colour cast without it looking unnatural or overpowering. Remember, the goal is to harness these colours, not to be overwhelmed by them, creating a truly immersive and artistic outcome.