Masters of Light

The writersvibe March 2013 postings about different forms of art has made me think about the importance of light.

50 shades of gray wouldn’t be enough for my favorite photographer.  Ansel Adams used every shade of gray, black and white.  While teaching at the Art Center School in Los Angeles in 1941, he developed his own Zone System of photography.  This system allows photographers to calculate and control the range of gray-scale tones in their negatives by using a light meter. The objective is to obtain a negative with silver densities corresponding to the photographer's preconception of the scene. This meant, Adams utilized a mesmerizing number of distinct shades of gray, black and white. He further encouraged his students to manipulate their images' tones while developing and printing. Adams compared printmaking to a musical performance by likening the tonal values of a negative to the notes on a musical score. Like a musical performance, the print was then subject to variation and reinterpretation over time.  Once again, art recapitulates art which has been our theme at writersvibe.

 Another artist, Thomas Kinkade, has mastered the use of light.  His paintings revolve around light striking floral landscapes – a light that is symbolic of his Christian faith.  Whether you are a believer or not, all can appreciated Kinkade’s love of Light.

From the Master of the gray-scale to the Painter of Light, lighting plays an important part in art.  It sets mood and brings objects to life.  It casts shadows and allows darkness to exist.

Now as you write – think about lighting – try adding simple descriptions of lighting to your scenes.  Anything from a flickering light bulb to a sun drenched sand dune, remember to bring life to your writing through descriptions of light.

Practice a writing exercise focusing on the use of light – if you like what you wrote, please feel free to post it in the comments.