In a world where we are told to focus on Ai tools, noise levels, and new sensors, they often fail to teach us photography itself and of course how to use light and shadow.

Screw you exposure! Our photos lack separation not brightness.

I’m always bringing us back to shadows because shadows are the only way we see beautiful light. Stop using the exposure slider and fix your photos.

Come to the next Shadow Hackers this will all come togethor. You can also try the free Filmist Pack or the new PowerFlow 8 to see these exposure methods in action.

It’s not about the volume.

A great score is not better just because it’s loud. There’s a time to use volume, and exposure, like I show in the speed editing video of PW8. But volume with balance is just gain.

Use curves, levels, and even HSL.

All of these are EQ sliders. They increase gains to specific parts allowing you to create the separation you want. Even simple sliders like blacks or whites can work. But avoid contrast sliders as I explained in Stop Using Contrast.

Do use exposure in the Camera.

This is the absolute best time to decide on light and dark tonalities overall. Because in the camera you get real exposure. You’re using aperture and shutter to help create the feeling you want. Then you can perfect it with good edits like an F Curve.

Once you start thinking this way and hacking Shadow. The real wizardry begins.

Gavin Seim