Discover four key elements that make this stunning photo a success

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Explore the effective techniques photographer Sergey Tsybulsky used to take his shot to the next level

Woman standing in front of a ferris wheel at night
(Image credit: Sergey Tsybulsky)

1: Focus

Influence the direction of the viewer’s gaze by deliberately sharpening different elements. In this photo, strong colours are reflected in the model. To make the subject stand out visually, Sergey enhanced the sharpness of the subject’s face and body, with contrasting blur on the hand and Ferris wheel in the background. Through this approach, lights turn into graphic elements that enhance the photography. Integrating the blur helps influence the overall effect of the photograph.

2: Background composition

“The lights of the amusement park made this frame interesting and turned it into a setup full of magic,” he says. Through the clear delimitation of the background, the colors and lights are in stark contrast with the dark night. They are clearly visually highlighted and create a unique atmosphere.

3: Interaction

When shooting with a model, communication is key. Make sure to create a pleasant atmosphere when taking photos. Adjust your technical settings in advance and concentrate on working with the model. To capture this interaction with the person, it is advisable to think in image sequences. This allows the model to move freely, with motion sequences providing the opportunity to capture the perfect moment.

4: Color balance

To create a harmonic photograph, Sergey has applied a basic rule – choosing colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This way, the composition of the photograph moves within a radius where similar shades interact with each other. Sergey chooses warm colors that are in line with the skin color of the model. There are many graphic and restless elements in the photograph, but the choice of colors adjusts the atmosphere. 

Nikon D750

(Image credit: Future)

Tech details 

Camera: Nikon D750

Lens: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art

Aperture: f/1.4      

Shutter speed: 1/160sec

ISO: 3200

Portrait
Sergey Tsybulsky

Sergey Tsybulsky is a photographer from Belarus who is always on the hunt for his next spectacular shot. What started as a passion developed into a serious part of his professional career. He has now been photographing for 14 years, focusing on nature, architecture and people – and he especially appreciates interacting with inspiring characters.

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This article originally appeared in Digital Photographer, a monthly magazine, and the kitbag essential for pros, enthusiasts and amateurs alike!

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Kim Bunermann
Kim Bunermann
Technique Editor

Kim is the Technique Editor of Digital Photographer Magazine. She specializes in architecture, still life and product photography and has a Master's degree in Photography and Media with a distinction from the FH Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences in Germany. While studying, Kim came to the UK for an exchange term at the London College of Communication. She settled in the UK and began her career path by joining Future. Kim focuses on tutorials and creative techniques, and particularly enjoys interviewing inspiring photographers who concentrate on a range of fascinating subjects including women in photography, the climate crisis; the planet, its precious creatures and the environment.

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