Getting that perfect picture into Elements' "Best Shot" monthly contest is easier than you think and so is collecting your $100 gift card. This month's best shot article presents a few basics on getting that perfect $100 winning submission.

 

Once a TEKA Illumination product application or project has been selected it is important to consider compositional elements within your soon-to-be best shot.  Although the majority of TEKA Illumination products will be found within architectural and landscaping environments more designers are bringing TEKA fixtures inside because of their jewel-like finish and high-end construction.  Our first example demonstrates some compositional basics that are applicable to all great picture-taking.

 

 

One of the most important elements of composition is setting the gaze for the viewer and the horizon line. If a horizon line is set too high lens flares and light bursts may result.  The illustration below reveals the vanishing points (two-point perspective) and the horizon line.  You can see how the bottom edge of the fixture's shade is almost at the same level as the horizon line eliminating glare.   

 

 

Good composition also involves balancing the points of interest within the image. Subjects should be given an appropriate amount of padding within groupings. Color is also important to consider. In our example, the custom Miniature Beacon (MBP) table lamp, wine bottle and glass nicely balance the African sculpture because of perceived weight, size and color. The value of reflected light also helps to balance the scene.

  

There is also specific project information that should be submitted with any "best shot" candidate.  Without specific information to identify properties and credit the parties involved, we cannot use them.  The more information sent along with your photo the better chances of winning that $100! They can include things like:  products, architect, lighting designer, engineer, contractor, distributor, rep agency, project completion and photo credits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our next photograph exudes several strong characteristics of a “best shot” image: appropriate horizon line, compelling one-point perspective focusing viewership on the Large Beacon Pole (LBP) fixture and good balance. Our poolside photographer has taken great care to place the viewer in the environment so they can sense the surroundings the TEKA fixture illuminates; the scale and fluidity of the water, the textures of stone walls and the brushy, naturalistic landscaping.

 

 

Critically, the exposure time was set within the golden dusk range; 15 to 30 minutes immediately following sunset.  Photos taken at dusk allow the beauty of the scene to literally shine through whereas many shots taken during the day often appear dull.  Use of a tripod is also highly recommended so you can focus on composition rather than steadying a camera at arms' length. B-K Lighting + TEKA Illumination Senior Graphic Designer Toni Eamigh advises,

 

As with any photography, your main goal is to focus on the light. Shooting at night is no exception. Getting that great shot at night can be done with a little practice, a good composition and a tripod. Mastering the proper exposures is a balance between high ISOs and long shutter speeds.

 

Our final example addresses interior installation shots of TEKA products. Interior shots can be tricky because of multiple light sources, confined spaces and complicated arrangements that compete with fixture presence.

 

The Malibu, CA residence shown below utilizes a Large Beacon Stem Mount Pendant for its central lighting source and demonstrates many of the characteristics previously discussed.  If you look closely this image has been captured late in the afternoon after the peak lighting hours.

 

 

One key advantage of interior shots of TEKA applications is the immediacy and intimacy of an enclosed space. Tight shots can focus in on and emphasize textures, materials, finishes and unique details found on custom designs like the SWM based c1966-17.

 

Have a great photograph and ready to win $100 or maybe you absolutely love a project that features TEKA products? We are always looking for the next great "best shot!" It doesn't matter if you are a professional photographer or just someone with an eye for great lighting and can follow just a few of the guidelines mentioned above. Your image, if selected, will appear in TEKA Illumination's Elements newsletter and be read by approximately 4,700 subscribers.

 

The competition is open-ended and runs all year long! You can submit your image to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..