Harsh Light

On the Oregon Coast

Continuing the portrait theme, this shot contends with both harsh light and a moving subject. I very much prefer to take photos in muted and ambient light, with stable subjects, and a tripod. But every so often particularly harsh light can actually lend a unique softness to the image, as in these fantastic shots recently featured on Burstoid.

I think more than anything this shot works for me because of the compositional contrasts, in particular the sharpness of eyelash, nose, and teeth framed by the soft blur of forearm, whitewater, and wicked blonde hair. I like it; I hope you like it too.