Low Key images for CPP

[Marie_M]

Hi All,
Just curious on lighting for low key images. Could an image pass CPP for low key if the subject were lit with short lighting at a ratio of 4:1? (Assuming that all other technical aspects were correct) Or would I get dinged for not using 3:1?

Thanks!
Marie

[Joe_Galioto]

Marie
There is no one way or ratio for a low, mid or rven high key portrait.
Different moods can be achieved in any type portrait
It's the photographers skill and ability to make wise decisions
Unless cpp is asking for a low key image with a 3 to 1 ratio
Then you should follow the instructions
I was certified in the mid 80s
You know - like film
But dropped it a few years ago
Everything changed a lot since I was certified

[Mark_Levesque]

If the lighting is flattering to the subject and all the technical details are correct, 4:1 would be fine.

[Rick_Massarini]

Just be careful when using too high a ratio for a CPP entry. Most camera sensors can only handle a limited range of lighting ratio and once you get beyond a 5:1 ratio on your lights, you're going to start clipping something somewhere - you'll either blow out your highlights or block up your shadows... That's all that the sensors can handle without losing one end or the other - just shy of a 5:1 ratio. If you blow out a highlight or block up the shadows, they might not look upon it favorably...

[Vance_Wagener]

To add to Mark and Rick's comment...

It's fine as long as elements do not blend into the BG like hair and clothing. There needs to be separation.

[Joe_Galioto]

......................................

[RBrogen]

So Joe ... If I may ask, why did you drop your CPP certification? Did you not find it useful or a differentiator?

Thanks

Marie
There is no one way or ratio for a low, mid or rven high key portrait.
Different moods can be achieved in any type portrait
It's the photographers skill and ability to make wise decisions
Unless cpp is asking for a low key image with a 3 to 1 ratio
Then you should follow the instructions
I was certified in the mid 80s
You know - like film
But dropped it a few years ago
Everything changed a lot since I was certified

[Joe_Galioto]

randy
i sent u a private message