How we read light to get this photo of Pastor Charlie Dates

This week’s top photo comes from Visual Journalist Zubaer Khan. Follow him on Bluesky and Instagram.

What makes this photo great?

What I really like about this photo is how the natural light falls on the Rev. Charlie Dates, creating a mood that feels dramatic and intimate at the same time. The contrast between the warm highlights and deep shadows adds depth, drawing attention to his presence — not to mention his striking blue suit and red pocket square — to create a visually compelling portrait.

How did you get the shot?

I was given some time after arriving at the church to scope out potential locations for portraits, which is not a luxury I often have. My first instinct was to look to the pulpit, and think of how I can capture Rev. Dates in his element.

But as I was looking through my viewfinder to imagine the shot, my eye caught a small window in the corner of the church. I had passed it when walking in, without noticing, but I could see the beautiful afternoon sun coming in, shining directly on only the first pew, and I knew that I would have to use that light for my portrait.

After that, it was just a matter of getting him to sit in a way that he could look natural and catch enough of the light to make the image work. We made conversation as I worked and had him move around, and after a few minutes, he eased into a relaxed posture that I felt captured his natural energy.

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