For the beginner starting out photography can be very difficult to grasp the hang on.  Most beginners have no clue about f-stops, lighting, flashes, lenses, zoom, or anything else.  They simply purchase a camera and begin taking pictures.  However, photography is so much more than just simply taking some pictures.  We are going to discuss the three main types of lighting situations that exist in photography so that you will have an idea of what your lighting conditions are, and this will help you in selecting the appropriate flashes and other lighting equipment that you need.

Hard Light –This is typically light from a single source, whether a light bulb, sunlight, or even the flash unit.  This tends to be directional and cause deep shadows that can darken the picture.  As long as hard light is carefully used, it can produce pictures that are bursting with intense colors, however, if the light is too direct and harsh it can make colors appear washed out, which is usually never a desired effect. 

Soft Light –This is the lighting that instead of coming from one direction only, it comes from all directions and immerses the subject in light, creating a soft appearance.  Unless the sky is very dark and full of grey clouds.  Soft light is great for portraits; it keeps the subject of the camera from appearing to be dull and washed out. 

Haze, Mist, or Fog –This lighting will greatly reduce the brightness of the colors.  Most colors unless they are in the foreground will appear muted and have a pastel appearance to them.  The particles in the air mute the light so that it is not very bright; this makes pictures have an amazing atmosphere if this is the look you are going for. 

Each different type of light can be modified to work with the desired effect you are wanting.  Mixing and matching the lighting scenarios with the different equipment available can create stunning looks as well as atmospheres.  You can dramatically change a picture just by altering the type of light that is used around the subject.  Through the uses of flashes, reflectors, diffusers, and additional lights, you can create the perfect lighting effect even when Mother Nature is not cooperating fully.  The lighting equipment ranges in price as well as the effect it can create, you will likely end up with several key pieces that will quickly become favorites for creating the look you crave.