Still-Life Photography: Create Dark and Moody Images

“My still life photography is heavily inspired by the great painting masters of the 17th to the 19th century. I aim to evoke a feeling of nostalgia and reminiscing about past times.”

Daniela Costantini is a renowned Mexican photographer whose work was selected among the 50 best in Switzerland, her current place of residence. She’s won numerous accolades, and has been featured in exhibitions across the globe. Daniela is here to teach you her dramatic and moody photography techniques, which have earned her critical acclaim.

Start by getting to know Daniela, a photographer, and your teacher for this course. She describes how her journey shaped her work as a visual storyteller and reveals her creative influences from the field of art and photography.

Look at the basics of still life by exploring classic paintings from the 17th through the 19th century. Go over the rules of composition and color theory before creating a mood board.

After styling and framing your scene, arrange the lighting to achieve a dark and moody atmosphere. Then it’s time to shoot your still life, exploring different angles for variety.

With your images ready, select your favorites and retouch them in Lightroom. Later preparing them for web or print in Photoshop. Daniela wraps up by explaining the importance of sequencing your work.