Photography Lighting Terms

Diffusion

• The process of spreading out from a central point.

• The scattering of light to make it softer and less harsh.

• The absorption of light by a surface.

• The reflection of light off a shiny surface.

Artificial Light

• Light produced by human-made devices, as opposed to natural light like sunlight.

• Light that occurs naturally in the environment, such as sunlight.

• Light that is produced by chemical reactions, like fireflies.

• Light that is generated by celestial bodies, such as stars.

Gaffer Tape

• A type of tape that is used for painting walls.

• A strong, durable, and non-reflective tape used to secure cables, props, or equipment on set without leaving residue when removed.

• A tape that is only used for electrical wiring.

• A decorative tape used for arts and crafts.

Soft Light

• A harsh light that creates sharp shadows, often used for dramatic effects.

• A diffused light that creates gentle, gradual shadows, often used for flattering portraits.

• A colored light that alters the appearance of subjects in photography.

• A bright light that is used to illuminate large areas without shadows.

Reflector

• A device that absorbs light to create shadows.

• A surface or device used to bounce light onto a subject, often used to fill in shadows or add highlights.

• A tool used to measure the intensity of light.

• A type of lens that focuses light into a beam.

Strobe

• A type of camera lens used for capturing images

• A lighting device that emits short, intense bursts of light, often used in photography to freeze motion or illuminate subjects momentarily.

• A technique for editing photos to enhance brightness

• A type of flash memory used in digital cameras

Continuous Light

• A lighting source that provides continuous illumination, making it easy to see the effect of light on the subject in real-time.

• A type of lighting that only works in short bursts.

• A lighting source that is only used in outdoor settings.

• A lighting source that requires frequent bulb changes.

Softbox

• A type of camera lens that enhances focus

• A light modifier that diffuses light from a source (like a strobe or continuous light) to produce soft, even illumination.

• A portable backdrop used in photography

• A type of lighting stand used to hold lights in place.

Umbrella

• A type of rain protection device.

• A portable, collapsible softbox, offering a convenient and effective way to control and enhance the quality of light in your images.

• A large, fixed structure used for shading outdoor areas.

• A decorative item used in ceremonies and events.

Reflection

• Bouncing light to fill in shadows.

• Absorbing light to create darkness.

• Scattering light in all directions.

• Blocking light to create a shadow.