Catchlight in your photos?

9 years 3 months ago #419941 by Wyrick Photography
Do you get wrapped up in having catchlight in your shots?  While I have noticed many photographers using catchlights, I still notice many of the top pro's not using them.  

Preference or taboo?  

Canon 5d Mark II • Canon 24-105mm F/4.0 • Canon 135mm F/2.0 • Canon 50mm F/1.8 • Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 • Canon 580ex ii
Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #419963 by garyrhook
"Using them"? What an odd way to put it.

If you are using artificial lighting, or the sun is in the right place, or there is something else shiny in the right place, you get a catchlight. I personally like them, but I don't 86 a shot if I don't have one. Hey, I could always add one in post.

And if you are trying to get sun flare without using flash/strobe, nope, no catchlight.

But I don't "use" a catchlight.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #419971 by stuartsbarbie
I am not sure what you are referring to. I thought "catchlight" referred to the reflected light in the eyes on a portrait photograph.  Personally I do not care for them.  They look to "staged" to me.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420014 by effron
Catch light in the eyes can be enhancing, but its another thing that can easily be over done. It needs to be subtle....;)

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420109 by Rudy Sosa
Depends on the person and the shoot


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420115 by Joves
Catch lights is something that seems to come and go like many other techniques. Some people like them, and others do not. If I was shooting for a living when using it is hot, then I would ask my customers their preference on them. If they do not know what they are then show them. Other than that I am ambivalent about them. The way I look at it is if the first thing I see are the catch lights, then there is a problem because they are over done. They like any other effect should enhance the photo, not be the center of it.


,
9 years 3 months ago #420201 by Camera Diva
Not really, but I have in the past.  As Joves said, it's a hit or miss for me

At the beginning of time there was absolutely nothing. And then it exploded! - Terry Pratchett
Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420233 by Tony Bisson
Nope.  I have experimented with catchlights, but nothing stuck with me. 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 3 months ago #420252 by Wyrick Photography
True, staged our not.  It's one of those things you find such a mixed group of opinions on.  

Canon 5d Mark II • Canon 24-105mm F/4.0 • Canon 135mm F/2.0 • Canon 50mm F/1.8 • Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 • Canon 580ex ii
Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024