Posts Tagged :

Urban

Photo Commentary #27: Starbursts and Fraunhofer Diffraction 1024 683 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #27: Starbursts and Fraunhofer Diffraction
Starbursts in Nightime Urban Scene

This gorgeous photo taken by Xerwyn Flores serves as a great example of starbursts in an urban environment. Notice that the lights further back in the photo (and thus less in focus) have weaker starbursts.

One of the most common characteristics you will notice in urban photographs is a lighting phenomenon colloquially known as “starbursts”. This, of course, is in reference to the the star like appearances of lights within an image due to the outward direction of their rays. However, the true explanation of this effect is a little bit more complicated – here goes nothing!

Before I explain the effect in the world of photography, we have to first take a slight detour through the world of physics. The “starburst” effect you notice in many photographs is due to a concept known as the Fraunhofer Diffraction. Fraunhofer Diffraction refers to the phenomenon by which light waves behave when travelling from an infinite distance through a slit or narrow opening. The reason we use infinite as the ideal distance is because it theoretically results in straight parallel light rays which cumulatively create what is known as a plane wave.

Fig 1.) Think of the plane waves as a 3D picture of the "incoming waves" in fig 4. A billion parallel incoming waves theoretically create a "plane". The arrow would point to the slit and screen.
Fig 1.) Think of the plane waves as a 3D picture of the “incoming waves” in fig 4. A billion parallel incoming waves theoretically create a “plane”. The arrow would point to the slit and screen.

In summary:

1.) Infinite distance between light source and slit produces parallel waves.
2.) Parallel waves cumulatively form a plane wave.
3.) All the individual parallel waves within the plane wave enter the slit or aperture at the same phase

Phase Changes and Velocity Measurement. Fig 2.) Phase refers to a point on the light's wavelength
Fig 2.) Phase refers to a point on the light’s wavelength

4.) Fraunhofer Diffraction occurs and light rays meet at a common point (light is focused)

Fig 3.) Light rays diffract and meet at a common point, creating a focused image
Fig 3.) Light rays diffract and meet at a common point, creating a focused image


5.) If light is focused, we can then assume an infinite distance to the light source

Fig 4.) A 2D depiction of parallel light waves entering a slit to create Fraunhofer diffraction. The first figure is a 3D view of the same incoming waves.
Fig 4.) A 2D depiction of parallel light waves entering a slit to create Fraunhofer diffraction. The first figure is a 3D view of the same incoming waves.

When the incoming light wave passes through the slit or opening, some of the rays diffract or bend according to several variables including: size of the hole, shape of the hole, and the distance between the screen, slit, and light source.

Now back to photography. In the beautiful image of the city skyline, we will take a look at the first street lamp on the top right corner – this will be the source of our light. The diaphragm or aperture of the camera lens will be the “slit”, and the light sensor of the camera will be the “screen” (or in other words, the “photo” we see). Let’s start with the light source.

The light source has an impact on the diffraction produced due to its distance from our camera lens as well as its other properties such as wavelength (color) and intensity. We can assume the distance from the lamp to our camera is infinity. Reason being, the street light is in focus. If you look at lights in the background or in the buildings, they have reduced focus, hence less diffraction and weaker starbursts occur.

The aperture of the camera is the slit in the diagram. The narrower the slit or aperture, the more diffraction occurs, and thus, the greater the diffraction. In other words, f/16 would create MORE diffraction than f/11. However, things don’t end there. Another aspect of the aperture is its actual shape – this is where the magic happens.

Fig 5.) As the blades of the camera's shutter increases in number, the more circular the aperture's opening becomes and less diffraction occurs
Fig 5.) As the blades of the camera’s shutter increases in number, the more circular the aperture’s opening becomes and less diffraction occurs

Camera apertures are not perfectly circular. Rather, they are comprised of numerous blades to form various shapes, depending on the number of blades. The more circular the hole, the less the diffraction. This also means, the more the blades in your camera’s aperture, the less diffraction you will see. The shape of your camera’s aperture is also the reason the starbursts get their shape. Fun fact – if your camera has an even number of aperture blades, that will be the number of points in the starbursts you create. If it has an odd number of blades however, the starburst will have twice as many tips. In the main photo, I counted an average of 14 rays in the starburst. This could mean one of two things – the camera has an aperture with either 7 blades, or 14 blades.

Fig 6.) In order to theoretically achieve any Fraunhofer Diffraction, the equation above must be less than one. However, to be seen, the equation must be much smaller than 1. W = aperture size L = Distance from light source to aperture λ = Wavelength of light
Fig 6.) In order to theoretically achieve any Fraunhofer Diffraction, the equation above must be less than one. However, to be seen, the equation must be much smaller than 1.
W = aperture size
L = Distance from light source to aperture
λ = Wavelength of light


So all in all – if you want an epic starburst, get a camera with 100 aperture blades, get a light source in focus, and make sure it is red in color (red has the longest wavelength)!

Oh and big thanks to Xerwyn Flores for taking this beautiful photo!

Photographer: Xerwyn Flores
https://www.eyeem.com/u/xeriez

Architectural Building With Neon Lights and Reflection
Photo Commentary #24: Subject Control 1024 576 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #24: Subject Control
Architectural Building With Neon Lights and Reflection

This photo by Zichuan Han is a perfect example of a photo in which reflections have been accurately controlled so that the architectural subject is complimented, rather than overpowered.

 

It has definitely been quite some time since I commented on an image so let’s get back to it with this mesmerizing shot taken by Zichuan Han!
 
The first feature of this photo is no mystery – the unique modern architecture of the building. One could probably talk about the elegance of such a structure, but unfortunately I do not qualify as an architect 😉 But what I do know, is it is perfectly framed and composed along one of the horizontal lines of thirds (more on this in another post).
 
The second feature is a little more subtle – – the cool blue reflections of the building’s neon lights. As I have mentioned before, reflections are a great way to add clarity and depth to an image. In this case, the reflection also accentuates the features of the main subject, which is the building itself. It is critical that the photographer plans his photo, not just in terms of composition, but also editing. It is very easy to get carried away and make everything in the photo “eye-catching”, but that would only confuse the viewer. What am I supposed to be looking at? What is important here? In this instance, Han did an excellent job of keeping the reflection to a subtle, yet still powerful, appearance. The building retains the primary attention of the viewer, while the reflection ADDS to it, rather than subtract from it.
 
Photographer: Zichuan Han

The Artist’s Spotlight #1: Benjamin Sutter 150 150 varunvisuals

The Artist’s Spotlight #1: Benjamin Sutter
Capturing the Northern Lights via Astrophotography This landscape testifies towards Benjamin’s skill in capturing dynamic scenes such as the Northern Lights, while also adhering to the basic principles of astrophotography. 

 
 
 
 
There are a select few photographers I have discovered that utilize a style or aesthetic to produce not just a single image, but a whole portfolio that I instantly fall in love with – Benjamin Suter is one such individual.
 
 
Gloomy Waterscape While many photos have been bright and full of colors, Benjamin is just as capable of producing moody, thought-provoking, high-contrast images.
 
 
 
 
Quite frankly, I don’t think posting one single image does the artist any justice, hence I have decided to use several photos that I think best encompass his style of capturing images with a myriad of vibrant colors, perfectly balanced with a landscape or …urban-based subject. This is something I am trying to master myself.
 
 
River Winding Through Canyon at Sunset This image stands out to me because of its unique take on depth of field – rather than using a firm and distinct foreground, middle ground, and background (one could definitely argue this point), Ben quite literally uses the river to help the viewer’s focus flow through the image. This creates a smoother transition, which is suitable for such a serene scene.
 
 
 
 
As we have all heard the phrase, a picture is worth a thousand words. Explaining everything I love about these images would simply take countless hours and pages, as they each are unique in not just what, but how, subject matter, technique, color, and elements of design are all interconnected with each other. I simply would not be able to pick them all out! 😂
 
 
Vantage View of a Colorful City at Night Almost a full 180 from the second photo, this urban scene is nothing short of a vibrant display of countless colors harmonizing with each other in a gradient like fashion. Notice the overall transition from orange in the lower left corner to light blue in the upper right corner.
 
 
 
 
With that being said, I will leave it up to you to interpret these images as to how you wish – while you should do this with ANY artistic work or photo, I want to give you more freedom this time to do so without any of my say or influence.
 
 
Star Trails Over an Urban Scene From a Vantage Point The last photo almost appears to combine the elements of the last two pictures. Despite being an urban scene, Ben utilizes the same depth of field approach characterized by gradual changes rather than distinct ones. Secondly, the more obvious fact, is that the image is once again a vantage view of the city, although the orange and blue hues are scattered rather than localized into a gradient pattern. Of course, the final touch is the star trail in the sky, likely done with masking (and of course, astrophotography).
 
 
 
 
Tell me which photos you love or what you like about each of them. Perhaps you may find something you are not a fan of – that is okay as well. Also, please do not be surprised if you see me posting more of his work in the future – I simply can’t get enough of it! 😊
 
Photographer: Benjamin Suter
 
One quick side note: if you haven’t already, I encourage you to join my group, “The Visionaries”. In it, I hold discussions about photos and techniques, except it won’t be so “one-sided”, like it is here on my regular Facebook page.
 
In the group, you can interact with fellow Visionaries and enjoy a more conversational atmosphere regarding photography and videography. I also periodically post “assignments” to spur on more discussion and participation. You will be able to post pictures yourself while providing your own commentaries (similar to how I do here) and simultaneously interact with other fellow photography lovers. The end goal is to have fun and appreciate the nature of such a beautiful visual art. Below I have attached a link to where you can sign up to join the group – hope to see you there!
 
Photo Commentary #21: Combining Elements 683 1024 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #21: Combining Elements
The stars in the sky, wet and textured walkway on the right, lights of the skyscrapers, and their reflections in the water all make this an eye-catching photograph.
The stars in the sky, wet and textured walkway on the right, lights of the skyscrapers, and their reflections in the water all make this an eye-catching photograph.
By now you all probably know about my crazy obsession with urban nighttime displays as well as astrophotography, so obviously a combination of those visual elements simply make me ecstatic.
 
Just like the images from 4 and 5 posts ago, this picture can make me nerd out as well, whether it’s about the perfectly clear reflections of the city lights in the water, the sharp masking of the stars above, or the wet walkway adding contrast to the photo. The list is simply endless.
 
But instead of my comments, I want to hear some of yours! What element(s) of this photo simply make it “perfect” for you? What is something that if it wasn’t there, would leave the photo incomplete in your eyes? And if you can’t think of anything, then what would you like to see in the photo to make it subjectively better in your opinion?
 
Photographer: Aleksander Pasaric https://instagram.com/apasaric_photography

Photo Commentary #18: Vantage Points 150 150 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #18: Vantage Points
City at Sunset From a High Vantage Point

This photo taken by Sergio Souza is a great example of utilizing high vantage points to increase detail within your images.

   

It can hardly be argued that images from tall vantage points are stunning to the highest degree (pun intended). The reasons why are perhaps the most obvious – you can simply see more.
 
Furthermore, with the constantly evolving technology we have today, the detail that can be captured is simply astonishing. For instance, you can tell that this image is long exposure due to the light trails of the ant-sized cars below. You can also see what time the photo was taken simply by looking at the clock on the building. Of course, the sunset and its compatibility with the orange streetlights below is the icing on the cake. What intrigues you the most about Sergio’s fantastic image?
 
Photographer: Sergio Souza
Photo Commentary #16: Masking and Astrophotography Part I 1024 536 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #16: Masking and Astrophotography Part I
Starry Night Sky Over City and Water

This photo serves as an example to of a time when it may be appropriate to use masking techniques – astrophotography in an urban setting.

This mesmerizing photo taken by Sanaan Mazhar encompasses three different topics that I had spoken about in three earlier posts. Can you guess which topics I am referring to?

And more importantly, rather than me explain the photo to you, how about we flip it around again – how do you think this image was taken? Let me know in the comments below!

Photographer: Sanaan Mazhar
https://www.instagram.com/piccinng/

Toronto Skyline Over Lake Ontario at Night
Photo Commentary #15: Using Water for Reflections 1024 683 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #15: Using Water for Reflections
Toronto Skyline Over Lake Ontario at Night

This photo of the Toronto city skyline at night is a perfect example of making use of the reflections in a body of water (in this case, Lake Ontario) to increase the overall scene’s color and contrast. While the city light’s reflection is probably visible to the eye, the photographer is still responsible for framing it appropriately within the overall composition of the photo. Furthermore, he must ensure the angle of the lighting is adequate enough for the camera’s sensor to pick up the reflection.

If you read my last post, you know that I briefly touched upon the power of dark and reflective elements within photographs – it would be an utter disservice if I never discussed one of the most common surfaces used and that is water.

Water is an excellent element (pun intended) to include in images due to its reflective properties as well as its ability to introduce contrast in an image where otherwise it would not be found.

When hearing water, many think of oceans, rivers, and lakes – while this is true, as in this image, it also refers to minor things like precipitation, puddles, and wet concrete! Simply put, water has immense power not just in nature and biology, but photography as well!

Fun fact: One of the most common, but less known, assets used on a movie set is a water truck. Often, streets and scenes are hosed down JUST for the amazing colors, contrast, and detail that it can bring to a scene. Next time you watch a movie, look for this especially in night urban scenes. Often, it isn’t even raining in the movie – the ground is just wet. Of course, if it is raining in the scene, this may be from a water truck as well.

So…how many of you already knew this? 

Photographer: Harrison Haines
https://www.instagram.com/harrison.haines/
https://www.hhphoto.ca/

Photo Commentary #14: Color and Vibrancy 683 1024 varunvisuals

Photo Commentary #14: Color and Vibrancy
This beautiful long-exposure of a light trail taken by Benjamin Cruz is a perfect example of using vibrancy in a way that adds enough flare to an image without becoming overwhelming or unrealistic
This beautiful long-exposure of a light trail taken by Benjamin Cruz is a perfect example of using vibrancy in a way that adds enough flare to an image without becoming overwhelming or unrealistic

I think I can speak for all of us when I say that Benjamin Cruz totally nailed this urban photo!

There are simply countless elements in this visual that make it stand out. However the most prominent element is likely the wide range of colors that can be observed in the scene, added by the strength of the vibrance that each hue offers. Vibrance is a term that describes the intensity of only the otherwise muted colors in a scene (versus saturation which refers to ALL the colors in a scene).

Like many other topics we have discussed before, this is a double edged sword. Too much vibrance, and especially saturation, can turn a vivid photo into a messy, blotchy, and otherwise ununatural image. Unfortunately, I found myself to be a perpetrator of this crime numerous times when I began learning photography!

This image avoids such a fate through several avenues. Firstly, the scene itself is colorful. Red tail lights, white lights in office buildings, yellow street lamps, and green signal lights can all attest to this. Secondly, there is contrast between the darkness of the bench and brightness of the intersection – the former accentuates the latter. Thirdly, the utilization of reflections, once again, by the bench.

In summary, a slight increase in the vibrancy of the intersection is magnified several times over by dark reflecting surfaces that simultaneously give the photo contrast, thereby avoiding what could have been an blotchy cartoon.

Great work Ben!

Photographer: Benjamin Cruz
https://www.bencruzphotography.com/
https://www.instagram.com/Thelensoftruth/

    My website uses cookies, mainly from 3rd party services. Define your Privacy Preferences and/or agree to my use of cookies.
    View Privacy Policy