Portrait 411 ~ Catch Lights

For some time I've been thinking it might be fun to include a few blog posts related to photography, portraits, tips and information based on the art and trade of photography. I never feel that writing is my strong point, and finding creative writing time is at a premium with baby, but I'll see what I can do!

Whether you're a client that appreciates custom photography, are looking to take better pictures of your own child, or just enjoy perusing the web enjoying different photography styles, chances are you've noticed "catch lights" in the eyes of the model. Maybe you didn't know what they were called, or possibly even thought it was a mistake or over site, but catch lights are highly desirable in a portrait.

What are catchlights? Catchlights are that spark of light which is reflected in the subject's eyes and is usually round or square in shape. A catchlight adds depth, dimension to the subject's eyes and is a desired effect in custom photography. Eyes without catchlights look dull and lifeless. Next time you're glancing through a fashion magazine, take note of how catchlights are used to add life and spark to the image.

Catchlight position in the eye vary by light source type and placement. Typically, it is more desireable to have a catchlight in the upper quadrant of the eyeball than the lower, though as in any art form there are no set rules. The earliest portrait paintings of many great artists show catchlights in the upper quadrant, and thus it's thought this is partly the reason it is deemed more desireable that way today.

Catchlights also vary by the type of light source. A catchlight from a large studio softbox source will look different from the reflective catchlights found in the eyes of a model shot outdoors in natural light.

The light source most of us are familiar with is on camera flash. On camera flash produces a small pinpoint light centrally located in the pupil of the eye- this is generally not desireable in custom photography as it is not as flattering to the subject.

I've included several samples of catchlights. Next time you're enjoying a magazine or looking at your wall galleries, take a moment to note the various types of catchlights and how they add to the overall look of the image. Great catchlights are something your custom photographer has worked hard on achieving to make your image really shine!