STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY - TOP/OVERHEAD LIGHTING

This is an example of OVERHEAD or TOP lighting, and I have kept the image low key for added impact. The pineapple's leaves burst into light, whereas the body of the fruit slowly melts into the shadows, which once again lack detail. The top light creates a sharp outline, yet completely removes any detail where the light touches. Because the light is overhead, there are no shadows whatsoever. Overhead lighting is quite harsh, and if, for example, you were using the sun as your light source outside, it would be preferable to use a diffuser above your subject if you want to achieve a flattering picture.