30secs Deid Orchid

[Rob MacKillop]

10StoppedOrchid1a by RobMacKillop, on Flickr


Fuji XE1, 10-stop ND filter, 30-seconds exposure, Raw file into LR4, Nik Colour

I'd like to be much better at this kind of thing, but just using natural light, as here. The light is either too strong or too weak. Difficult to get the perfect conditions without resorting to lighting. But I'd rather have the "imperfections" of natural light.

Advice and constructive criticism welcomed!​

 

[Pete Askew]

I like it. Do you use the DN10 to allow you to use a wide aperture? Could you use a lighter ND? Not that this will make a difference overall as long as you can keep the ISO low. What I often incorporate into simple light is a reflector. Often a piece of white card or rigid plastic to balance the shadows a bit and help preserve 3 dimensionality. When I shot the wood eaten by termites I was using the equivalent to a single window but used a white 'board' to bounce some light back in. You could try something similar or maybe even use a more shiny reflector and start to sculpt the light during the 30s exposure. What do you think?

 

[Rob MacKillop]

I did it in the spirit of, "What would happen if..." If I could only clarify in my mind what I'm after, we might be able to chart a course there. As usual, I'm just experimenting. Yes, I really do need to invest in reflectors, or at least use tin foil...or, as you suggest, white card. That might be enough.

Sculpting the light during a long exposure is an interesting idea...hmmm... The flower is almost incidental. It's the light that is the interesting thing. I must find ways of controlling it more, but in an almost carefree, relaxed way (I'm thinking out loud here!) so it still looks natural.

Thanks, Pete. As ever, much to think about!