Chiaroscuro light in photography
I was fortunate to be able to study a semester in Rome during my Tyler college career. That semester had a large impact on who I became as a photographer. I not only flourished in capturing street photography but was very influenced by the Renaissance painters. Most influential to me was Caravaggio who mastered the technique of Chiaroscuro.
Chiaroscuro which translates to Light/Dark, is an artistic lighting effect which consists of highlighting the subject through definition of light and shadows. Often the extreme light comes from the side and adds volume and modeling to the subject vs. a direct frontal light which is more flat.
I remember stepping into the San Luigi deli Francesi church one day. I was surprised to recognize the painting by Caravaggio called “The Calling of St. Matthew” from my art history textbooks. I was overcome with emotion to see the real painting in life-size. The nuances of light and dark came alive after I paid a coin to turn the light on over the painting. In my past painting classes, I had also spent time trying to duplicate this Caravaggio using a small print from a book. So to see the masterpiece in front of me flooded my body in tears and delight! This painting depicts St. Matthews's spiritual awakening, and calling which was relevant, now that I look back. I was raised Quaker, so my first exposure to the Catholic bible’s depictions was somewhat new to me. I was seeing the light in art form everywhere in Rome and knew I wanted to duplicate that kind of beauty and emotion in my own work. I started looking for Chiaroscuro light everywhere. I also really love the Dutch artist Vermeer’s “Girl with the Pearl Earring”. It evokes the beauty of Chiaroscuro in a close-up portrait. I try to duplicate this with my bridal window portraits when she is getting ready.
When looking for this light on a wedding day I am building this texture, volume, sense of dimension and grace. I believe there is a wonderful light and vibration in every being. It shines upon couples at the highest level on their wedding day. It is called love and hope. And I am most fortunate to be a part of that.
If you really connect with this look, I can suggest venues that have this aesthetic.
Knowlton Mansion in NorthEast Philly was designed in the Gothic Revival style by renowned 19th century architect Frank Furness. I've been working there for years and highly recommend the space, and Conroy Catering is the best!
Some other images are from Spring Mill Cafe, which is a Quaint French restaurant for micro weddings in Conshohocken, PA.
Also, Greenville Country Club, which was originally a home on the Dupont estate, has large windows and gorgeous dark wood work, among trees and gardens.
The Audubon Center, once the estate of famed naturalist and illustrator, John James Audubon, is a beautiful retreat. There is a barn for cocktail hour that has textured walls and light streaming through its vast space.
"The Calling of St. Matthew" by Caravaggio 1599-1600
"About to get married" at Greenville Country Club
"Bride in window light at Knowlton"
"Upstairs getting ready at Spring Mill Cafe"
