Q&A: How do I make crisp outlines with cookies?

Q: "I've been trying to fix different cookies onto my flash unit to make interesting shadow shapes, but the shadows are really soft, not hard edged like i want them.

negative create triangle supports shapes Simon Q. Walden, FilmPhotoAcademy.com, sqw, FilmPhoto, photography

AOP part 35: Negative Space

In general I think Robert Capa's advice, "if your pictures are not strong enough, you are not close enough", is pretty good.

elle lines important symmetrical location Simon Q. Walden, FilmPhotoAcademy.com, sqw, FilmPhoto, photography

Symmetry

THINKING: This location looks very busy in the final image - but on arrival there was even more stuff spread around than you see now!

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Model of the Day: 22/11/2025 - Raphaella WithLove

Our daily model photograph with Raphaella WithLove

Critique for Freda

Freda created these images during our Weekend Extravaganza organised with the RPS Digital Imaging Group.

sammie mirror Simon Q. Walden, FilmPhotoAcademy.com, sqw, FilmPhoto, photography

Sammie H - Mirror Shot (video)

"Nudes Deconstructed" - a short YouTube video discussion of an image.

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Model of the Day: 21/11/2025 - Roxanne

Our daily model photograph with Roxanne

obvious type tempting tax smaller Simon Q. Walden, FilmPhotoAcademy.com, sqw, FilmPhoto, photography

AOP part 34: Avoiding the Obvious

Now with a big post like this right in the shot it would be so tempting to do the obvious and use it for some pole dancing type shots.

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Model of the Day: 20/11/2025 - Carla Monaco

Our daily model photograph with Carla Monaco

studio costs Simon Q. Walden, FilmPhotoAcademy.com, sqw, FilmPhoto, photography

Real World Studio Costs (video)

A short YouTube video with some business advice

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Model of the Day: 10/06/2020 - Maja Stina