Finding and Photographing Creative Indoor Shadows

It's finally happening! The daylight has begun to increase noticeably. Winter up here in the North will stick around until at least April and maybe beyond, but I'm happy to see a significant brightening in the light within my home. I thoroughly enjoy exploring this return in light, and I find my creativity is rejuvenated with the light. I like to think about how I can use the newly returned light and shadow in fun and creative ways. Here are a few ideas about how you can use light and shadow in your images.

1. Look for shadows from windows

Window shadows are some of my favourite ways in which to use light and shadow creatively. Watch for light and shadow during different times of the day as the sun enters your home. Think about how you can use this light and infuse this often creative light and shadow into your images.

There are many different ways in which you can use the same light source and window in your images and create different looks. Try backlighting, side lighting and even front lighting your subject using the same window.

In this image, my subject is backlit, resulting in the shadow falling towards the front of the frame. 

^{ISO 100, 35mm, f4, 1/320SS}

In this image, my subject is front lit from the same window shown in the image above, but because my subject is front-lit, the shadow falls back into the frame, which creates a different look.

^{ISO 400, 35mm, f2.8, 1/8000}

2. Create shadows

I enjoy playing with light and shadow and love to get creative when I can. In this image, it was fun to create a unique image through the purposeful use of light and shadow. Don't be afraid to look for opportunities where you can elevate an image by infusing a little childhood magic. 

^{ISO 1600, 35mm, f2, 1/250SS}

3. Filter light for unique patterns 

Light can also be modified to create beautiful shadows. Drapery, other types of window coverings and even a blanket can filter light and create beautiful patterns as light filters into your home. Look for opportunities where you can manipulate light into something creative and artistic. I think the creative use of light is beautiful and can really elevate the impact of a simple image.

^{ISO 500, 35mm, f3.2, 1/250SS}

I think this time of year is a really great time to embrace the new light in your home that was hidden all winter long. I hope that you'll feel inspired and rejuvenated with the increase in light. With light comes shadows, so look for fun ways in which you can incorporate interesting shadows in order to infuse creativity into your images!