There
is no shadow of doubt that making reflections work on digital photos
can be a creative exercise. It impacts the entire process of photo
manipulation.
But
there is a difference between a shadow and reflection. A professional
editor knows the difference between the two. And this he can make them
look more vibrant in digital photo formats. He can make smoother reflection shadows
with amazing grace. Why are the two forms so vital to photo editing?
They have some qualities that can make photos look much better. For
example, no matter how much perfect the composition is when a snapshot
is taken, there is some error. This happens when a series of photos need
to be taken (of products or group of items). To highlight the quality
of each product/item, the best way is no just changing a background
or adding more elements. A dramatic effect can be created by use of a
shadow or reflection. A seasoned editor will judge if the shadow will
enhance the beauty or not. When a product is shot in flat light or the
source of the illumination is not correct a shadow can be created with
image editing software. With a shadow the actual product gets more
focused. And the problem of bad lighting is solved. There are several
products that can be enhanced this way. Many vendors who sell products
like electronics or jewelry can avail of this facility from a photo
studio. A small item like diamond ring or a pair of ruby earrings can be
flashed on the website with élan using the shadow work. The detail or
the design of the product is highlighted enough for the buyer to know if
he would like to make a click and purchase the item.
Reflection
shadows also are an integral part of image editing. While the shadow
alone brings out the details, a reflection makes it appear more
appealing. This is another characteristic of lighting that is important
in photography and also image editing.
While the shadow gives a spatial look, the reflection can handle the
uniformity of the lights used on flashing the products. If you have seen
a montage or a pack shot of foodstuff all in a row, it can be
accentuated with a reflection. Text is usually treated with varying
amount of reflection work. It may be the easiest thing to make a
reflection but with the use of shadows, various gradients it can be done
with a level of authenticity. There are several examples of reflection
that are used on any kind of external material like water, ground or
even glass.
Both these techniques can be done with advanced Photoshop imaging software. Both reflection shadows
can be used in a single image. The ideal thing to do is to make the
shadow first and then create the reflection. Shadows can be added to any
side of the main subject, i.e top, bottom, long and distant, right or
even left- but its positioning matters with the source of light. Getting
the layers in order, reviewing the final look should be a patient job.
Yes, it a culminated effort of the editor who knows how to differentiate
and use the service with amazing graces.
