In chapter 4 of Freeman’s book, we learn about the importance of contrast and compositions of tones and colors and shadows. One of the most important concepts we learn about is this phrase called “chiaroscuro” which is an italian word that literally translates to “light/dark.” This concept is one that can be displayed through multiple different forms of art including both painting and photography. In photography however, this concept is a way in which photographers, like ourselves, can translate the three dimensionality of an object or person into the image we capture.
Chiaroscuro refers to the use of strong contrasts. In paintings this can be created by using light and dark tones of colors and in images this can be created by using strong light sources to create strong shadows. An example of chiaroscuro in a photographic image is an image where you can see the contrast in a human body or face when a subject is facing towards a harsh source of light. There are then shadows created on the side that is facing away or behind the light source. I chose the image featured above because not only is it one of my favorite images I have ever taken, but also because I believe I did a good job photographing contrast in this image. I took this picture while I was taking C226 and implemented a lot of the concepts I had learned during class into my photography. Not only is the lighting of a stage naturally dramatic and creates heavy shadows, but the way I set my camera and the moment I chose to capture I felt really emphasized this concept and effect. Because of this, I thought to use this photo in my reflection on this chapter, especially being that I found the concept of chiaroscuro to be the most important takeaway from this chapter. With that being said, I know I still have a lot of work to do and so much more to learn and look forward to strengthening my skills in using concepts like this and learning how to convey emotions and contrast in my photos.