A low key image is made up mainly of deep shadows and dark tones, with black often covering around 70–90% of the frame. It's a style that thrives on drama, atmosphere and mystery. Done well, it invites the viewer to stop, look a little longer and wonder what they're not seeing.

The good news? Creating a low key photograph is surprisingly straightforward.Mastering it is another story.

Reveal only what matters

The real skill lies in stripping away everything that doesn't need to be there. Low key photography is all about revealing just enough detail to tell the story while allowing the shadows to do the rest of the work.

One light is all you need

You don't need a studio full of expensive lighting. A camera and a single light source are often enough.

Positioning the light behind or to the side of your subject against a black or dark background works particularly well. The aim isn't to flood the scene with light but to use it selectively, revealing only the shapes, contours or silhouette of your subject.

This dramatic interplay between light and shadow is known as Chiaroscuro – a technique perfected by Renaissance painters during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. Long before photographers were arguing about camera brands, artists were already proving that light is everything.

Highlights make the difference

You can light your subject with a dedicated photography light, natural daylight or, in a pinch, even the torch on your mobile phone. Inspiration doesn't always arrive with expensive equipment.

Slightly underexposing your image helps deepen the shadows while preserving detail in the highlights. That said, don't be afraid to let some highlights blow out if it suits the mood you're after. Photography isn't a game of perfection. Sometimes breaking the rules creates the strongest image.

High contrast is what gives low key photography its impact.

If your shadows become a little too dark, simply use a white card or reflector to bounce a touch of light back into the scene. A tiny amount of reflected light can make a surprisingly big difference.

Exposure is everything

If you're unsure about the perfect exposure, shoot several frames using exposure compensation. Later, you can blend them together in Photoshop or simply choose the version that best captures the mood you're aiming for.

Spot metering is also worth using, as it allows you to expose accurately for the highlights while letting the shadows naturally fall into darkness.

Remember, in low key photography you're usually protecting the light, not rescuing the shadows.

Camera settings

There's no magic formula but these settings provide a solid starting point.

• Keep your ISO as low as possible to minimise noise and preserve detail.
• A prime lens can deliver excellent sharpness and contrast.
• A wider aperture lets in more light and can create beautiful subject separation.
• Adjust your shutter speed to suit both the available light and any movement in the scene.
• Both full-frame and APS-C cameras are capable of producing excellent low key images, although larger sensors can offer a little more flexibility in challenging light.

As always, they're guidelines rather than rules. Photography would be rather dull if every image came with an instruction manual.

What works best?

Low key photography suits almost any subject, but it really shines with portraits, wildlife, flowers, still life and anything rich in texture. Wrinkles, feathers, fur, wood, metal and weathered hands all come alive when lit with care.

The beauty of low key photography isn't what you hide.

It's what you choose to reveal.

I hope this guide helps you create images with a little more drama, atmosphere and depth. If you've found it useful, I'd really appreciate a heart or a share. Thanks for reading.