How I learn light

Written By Kim Bear

I have to test and test and test. Understanding light drives me to continue to experiment. The hardest part isn’t the technical part (although that is a lot of fun), but deciding what to create. With light you can create so many looks that essentially you start with a blank canvas every time. As a photographer I have to make a decision about what I want to create and what my subject wants from their pictures. What mood do they want? What is the purpose of their pictures (for business or for their profession)? What do I want to create? This last question sometimes can keep me up. With so much great light… what is that I want to create???? Testing helps me see it. See what I like, see what works, and see what honestly I am not loving…

Testing light is about seeing what I like and training my eye to quickly recrete it for a client. I started testing light from the beginning. I needed a model and I was always available! If you are a photographer I can’t encourage getting in front of the camera more. First you learn light…. as a photographer you can’t ever learn too much about light. Secondly you learn about posing. Posing is the number one thing people come nervous about. They feel so awkward and they need you to give them directions. If you don’t feel and see the pose you may find it hard to teach and direct. There have been many times I think or feel that a pose looks great… only to see it and realize how off base I was!

Lastly, testing gives you confidence. Just like with a sport the more reps you get the most natural something feels. You think less and experience more. Plus, when I am testing light, it is just me and the camera. So there is no pressure. I can experiment without any worry. The quest to find your style as a photographer is take a bit. You will see a lot of images you like… a lot of lighting you will like and if you are like me you will be so confused because you haven’t decided what you feel most drawn to. Honestly I am drawn to a lot of looks and I want to confidently be able to pull tools from my tool box to match the vibe of client.

So I test for me because I am fixated on light, but I also test for you. When you step in front of my camera you want me to take the lead so you can feel confident you are in good hands.

How to start a light testing project

Gosh, there a million ways to start, but for me it starts with a “kind of light: In this case I wanted to use my optical spot…I am fascinated with it! Maybe it is backdrop you want to test or maybe you have a session you are practicing for. So have a mission. Keep your mission tight. Meaning be very narrow in what you are testing. Sometimes I test a single modifer. How close or how far does it work best at? Sometimes I test multiple modifiers at the same distance to see what looks they create. Here are a few Ideas

Bounce vs. direct light

One light

Two lights

the “natural light look”

Hardlight with shadow

The traditional headshot

Bounce lighting

Different lighting positions

Creative light patterns

Grid vs no grid

Distance from background

The idea is to become confident and more creative!

Kim Bear

About Kim | Photographer at Still and Wild

If you live in or around Topeka, you’ve probably noticed how hard it is to find headshots that actually feel real. Most people end up with photos that look stiff, overly edited, or just not like them. That’s exactly why I started Still and Wild: to create portraits that feel like you on your best day.

I’m Kim Bear, a Topeka-based photographer who believes your headshot should work as hard as you do. I specialize in professional and creative headshots that help entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals across Topeka, Holton, and Northeast Kansas show up with confidence. My approach is relaxed, guided, and designed to help you look natural and self-assured in every photo.

When you book a session with me, it isn’t about forcing perfection. It’s about finding that spark, the mix of calm, confidence, and personality that makes people stop scrolling and say, “That’s who I want to work with.”

Why people choose Still and Wild

Most of my clients tell me the same thing: “I hate having my picture taken.” But by the end of their session, they’re relaxed, laughing, and usually saying, “That was actually fun.” I guide you every step of the way, from what to wear to how to pose, so your photos feel effortless, natural, and flattering.

I photograph headshots, personal branding portraits, and lifestyle images throughout Topeka, Holton, and nearby Kansas communities, blending modern studio lighting with lifestyle-inspired direction. The result is a polished but personal look that helps you stand out both online and in person.

What makes Still and Wild different

The experience at Still and Wild is personal from the very beginning. You’ll never be rushed through your session or posed like everyone else. Every session is customized to highlight who you are and what makes your story unique. My goal is to help you walk away with photos that feel like you, confident, approachable, and authentic.

After years behind the camera, I’ve learned how to use light, movement, and genuine connection to bring out your most natural expressions. Many people think they’re not photogenic, but what they really need is someone who understands how to guide them comfortably through the process. I know how to capture that perfect balance between professional and real so your headshots feel natural while still looking elevated.

And then there are the results. My clients use their photos to grow their businesses, attract better opportunities, and build stronger brands. I’ve worked with professionals across Topeka and the surrounding area who tell me their new photos changed how people respond to them online and how they feel about themselves. Whether you need a LinkedIn headshot, brand photography for your business, or a creative concept for your next project, I’ll help you create images that make people stop and pay attention.

Ready to look like the professional you already are?

Let’s create something that feels completely you.

Book your headshot session today and walk away with portraits that help you stand out online and in real life.

https://www.stillandwild.com
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There's No Wrong Way to Look Like You