Top Techniques for Using Natural Light in Portrait Photography

[@Bobby_sprinkles]

I definitely used to shoot at midday all the time. I always kind of thought, if I can shoot around this time, in harsh light, then I can shoot at literally any time.

[@SophiaCarey]

100%. I agree. I think the thing is that, getting comfortable with how unpredictable shooting in natural light is, sets you up for tackling most situations. In the same vein, if you only ever shoot on overcast evenings, how do you prepare when a client asks you to shoot in midday sun? I think that understanding a few techniques you can use to make the most out of the light is always going to be to your advantage

[@Bobby_sprinkles]

@@SophiaCarey I know people who only shoot in golden hour. I get why, but that must be so constraining in an artistic journey. Like you said, there are ways you can embrace the light in an artistic way. I saw a quote the other day that the comfort zone is lovely, but nothing beautiful ever grows there, and I kind of think that applies if you only ever shoot in specific lighting.

[@SophiaCarey]

That's completely spot on. I also think that there's nothing wrong with having an artistic preference as to what type of light you shoot in, I know I do, but I think that's different to not knowing how to handle different lighting techniques. I believe that rules are made to be broken, but it usually helps to know what they are first.

[@lukehollingworth2157]

This is a great video keep it up. I will take some of the tips into consideration

[@JTobiason]

The lights on his face at 2:43 are so cool. Excellent work, but also beautiful contrast balance between the highlights/shadows.

[@SophiaCarey]

Thank you so much!

[@docgamer4248]

some real practical advice here. Well done!

[@SophiaCarey]

Thank you!

[@photosbyjrd]

Another great video 💪🏾

[@SophiaCarey]

Thank you so much! 💛

[@MoneyMakingMeg]

Your use of lighting is insane mate! Also your portraits and wedding shots never fail to amaze me🔥🔥

[@SophiaCarey]

Thank you so much!

[@AdventuresInVideo]

Now I'm curious how this video was lit. So soft! Looks great! 😄 Giant, diffused window to camera right?

[@SophiaCarey]

Hahaha, exactly that!

[@IZHXN]

as a location photographer I appreciate the detail in natural lighting in this video by far I love shooting in shade or overcast the most but your back light shots are so good and those flares 🤩

[@SophiaCarey]

Thanks Iz! Shade and overcast definitely cause the least problems haha. I'm usually happy to see an overcast day!

[@neeravnaik]

I love shooting my kids hour before golden hour in the house. Sun is not too bright but is at an angle that is bounces of the floor and creates very good under and side lighting. Shooting under trees mid day also sometimes gives good diffused light

[@SophiaCarey]

Definitely! Golden hour is always a dream

[@nirmalyaroy2811]

🙂