The shadows help focus the viewer’s attention by removing detail from the less important parts of the image. Shadows can be effectively used to focus a viewer’s attention. “Jon + Emily” captured by PictureSocial member Gagan Dhiman Focus An example of this use of shadows would be a dramatic sunset where the sun punches through gaps in the clouds creating areas of light which are surrounded by dark areas where the cloud cover is heavy.

Thus, it is the interplay of light and shadows that creates the attention grabbing contrast.

However, tonal contrast can not occur without shadows. People’s attention is automatically drawn to areas of high tonal contrast. One of the most powerful uses of shadows is for the creation of contrast to produce a dramatic effect. This article details five uses of shadows in creating dynamic photos. If we are to reach our full potential as photographers, we must think as much in terms of mastering the shadows as we do of mastering the light. It is the shadows that shape the light, draw attention to the light, and integrate with the light to produce striking photographic opportunities.

Rather, shadows are an entity as alive as the light. Shadows are not simply a dark mass that borders the light. “Apple Store in 5th ave” captured by PictureSocial member Jet Rabe

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