Lighting can be hard to learn. Struggling with softboxes, reflecting light off the ceiling, or relying on natural light while setting up a studio always seemed too difficult to me. But, now Google has found a way to simplify things for you.
Google has introduced Learning Light AI tool that allows you to explore and experiment with studio lighting in a 3D virtual space. You don’t even need a camera to try out various lighting setups. It’s completely virtual so you can play around with virtual lights and spotlights right from the comfort of your couch.
Learning Lighting, Without the Expensive Gear
Google has been testing out some new AI tools recently. One of the most interesting ones they’ve released is called Learning Light. This free virtual stage comes with an AI chatbot that helps you experiment with different lighting setups. I’m more fond of videography and it works for it as well.
Learning light is mainly focused on stage lighting. That means you don’t have to use studio strobes or speedlights at this point. Because, simply there’s no need of all the tools in a photography studio. However, don’t ignore it just because of that.
I find it similar how lighting functions on stage and in a photo studio. There’s some sort of connection between where the light comes from, how shadows are cast, brightness levels, and the overall atmosphere. Once you understand how light works in this digital environment, you can apply those same principles to your photography.
Meet LuxeBot: Your AI Lighting Guide
The first thing you’ll see is a chatbot called LuxeBot3000 in Learning Light. As far as I know, this AI won’t confuse you with complicated terms or definitions. I heard that LuxeBot guides you through seven short lessons that cover important topics like light intensity, color, beam shape, position, mood, and a few other useful points.
After every lesson you’ll have two lighting options. Basically, it shows you how each one appears on the virtual stage. Personally, I find it very interactive and visual. I mean isn’t it good that you’re actually learning through experience instead of just trying to memorize things? That’s what really sets it apart.
Next, you can switch to manual mode. You can do that when you’ve got complete guidance from LuxeBot. This mode seems to give you control over six different lights, allowing you to adjust things like brightness, beam angle, and color. Adjust the beam closer, and just like that, the shadows change. Increase the red light, and your setup resembles a darkroom. It seems interesting because that’s how you’ll understand how lighting functions without fiddling with gear that you may not even have yet.
Moreover, how lighting affects various items made me more curious. You can easily add things you want like potted plants, bicycles, bookshelves, or a guitar to your scene by dragging and dropping them. Bring them near the light for sharper shadows, or move them further away to create softer shadows. You might also change your background if you want a different vibe.
Is This the Kind of AI We Actually Need?
Personally, I see this AI in good lists. Because at least it isn’t copying anyone’s art. Learning Light seems to give you the freedom to experiment, and find your way—all without using any gear. Honestly, my mind says this could be one of the most practical and low-risk AI tools to come into the photography world recently.
The concept is very simple and you can get the app here. Try chatting with a bot and create a 3D virtual set how you want!
[via Yahoo; Image credits: Google]
