High key is a photography technique based on the predominant light and bright tones, comprising pure white in detail. We can say that a color is in high key when it is composed largely of the color white. In this way its degree of contrast will be less than in a low key image.
In the same way that low key images manage to convey mystery, nostalgia …, high key images manage to convey tranquility, purity, cleanliness …
The main characteristic of high-key photos is that the images have low contrast and the shadows are practically zero.

The result of combining soft lighting with a touch of overexposure on a soft background manages to soften, for example, the skin tone. This gives the image a more stylized, fine and elegant effect which also makes it related to quality and luxury. High-key images are ideal to represent joy, fun, and beauty. This type of photography usually endows the viewer with positivity and optimism.

To get a high-key photograph, it will be necessary to have adequately indefinite lighting so that no kind of deep shadows appear. The color of the fabrics used should also be taken into account as well as the backgrounds will have to be in pastel tones or completely white. It’s a handy way to naturally decrease contrast. On the other hand, the midtones of the photograph will be moved towards the brightest part of the histogram so that the image is brighter. Finally, you can use dark or black tones in small areas so that the image is not discolored.

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