* We are using the term " lightness" while referring to digital values, like it is used in Lab color space reserving the term " brightness" for where the actual reflected or emitted light is present. Lightness is often edited not only by and not primarily by scaling, but rather simultaneously with contrast, using curves, channel blending, and sometimes even local intervention (masks, dodge/burn, etc.). Lightness* is not the goal of exposure, especially in raw – it’s an artistic element in the image, which is left to individual taste to be addressed during the processing and editing stages.
(caveat: for DR / S-Log to work, you need to start with ISO setting 1 or 2 stops higher than base, the camera will automatically use parameters for lower ISO setting at image capture stage). If you are shooting raw, you can do this manually if you are shooting JPEGs, try using dedicated modes instead: DR mode for Fujifilm, S-Log for Sony, etc. If the scene has a wide dynamic range, lowering the ISO to make sure that details in the highlights are not clipped works, from the perspective of image quality, much better than lowering the exposure.This may also help lower the noise and therefore raise the quality of the shot. If one was not able to move the histogram “to the right” by increasing exposure while shooting raw, increase the ISO, taking the specifics of your camera into account.
Of course, the usual exposure compensation and metering mode selection practices remain applicable.
The contrast is lowered for reproducing night scenes.įor shooting autumn scenes, vividly highlighting the reds and yellows of changing leaves.įor shooting images in black and white monotone.Practical Implications: Raising the Quality of a Shot Distant landscapes also stand out more.įor shooting the beautiful red of the setting sun. The saturation, contrast, and sharpness are heightened for shooting vivid and crisp scenery.
This is also suitable for capturing image material to be modified with a computer.įor shooting images in clear tones with limpid colors in highlight, suitable for capturing radiant light.įor shooting images with deep and dense colors, suitable for capturing the solid presence of the subject.įor shooting images with bright and simple colors, suitable for capturing a refreshingly light ambience.įor capturing skin in a soft tone, ideally suited for shooting portraits. The saturation and sharpness are lowered for shooting images in subdued tones. The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views. For shooting various scenes with rich gradation and beautiful colors.