catch lights in the eyes

[BLD_007]

Ever since I have started taking pictures and learning the ins and outs I have begun to see things different. Like lights reflecting in the eyes. I think its almost as bad as seeing a full reflection of the photographer in a mirror or glass or am I wrong?

Is there a way to hide the lights from the eyes but still get the same results or is this what we want, light reflecting in the eyes "like a soft box"

I can even see them in movies and tv when there is a close up and its sorta annoying.

Am I the only one or am I over analyzing photos ?

 

[PhotoXopher]

Actually catch lights are a good thing in my opinion. You can always add fake ones in Photoshop I guess.

 

[tdiprincess]

I think sometimes it makes the photo more real? It's supposed to be there kinda thing? not really sure how to explain it technically.....I'm sure someone with more insight will post
....waiting....

 

[Bitter Jeweler]

It was discussed at length HERE, if you want some background.

 

[Big Mike]

An eye without catch lights often looks 'dead'. So they are usually a good thing.

The key to understanding catch lights is: the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
Whether or not a catch light will appear in the eye, depends on the position of the light, the eye and the camera.
The shape & size of the catch light are determined by the shape, size & distance of the light from the subject.