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Photography Tips For Natural Light Portraits
September 05, 2024
1 min read
Natural light is one of the most powerful—and cost-effective—tools in a photographer’s toolkit. It brings warmth, depth, and authenticity to your images, and the best part is it’s completely free. All you need is good timing and a little know-how to make the most of it. In this blog, we share our top three tips and techniques for harnessing natural light to create stunning, professional-quality photos.
- Find the spot
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- Whether you’re shooting in the great outdoors or using windows to bring in natural light, you’ll want to seek out areas with soft, diffused light. You should also look for locations with open areas that allow light to bounce off walls, water, or other surfaces that can create a balanced, natural fill light.
- Experiment with angles
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- Finding the right angles is just as important as choosing the right location. The angle of the light can dramatically change the mood and effect of your photos. Experiment with positioning your subject in direct light, side light, or backlight to create different looks. Front lighting illuminates your subject evenly, while side lighting adds dimension with subtle shadows. Backlighting can create a glowing halo effect around your subject, especially during golden hour. Adjusting your angle to the light source helps you control the mood and depth of your photos, giving you more creative freedom.
- Manipulate light
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- Reflectors are an excellent tool for manipulating natural light and controlling how it interacts with your subject. By bouncing light back onto your subject, you can fill in shadows and achieve a more balanced, even illumination. Reflectors come in various colors—white for soft, natural light, silver for a brighter reflection, and gold to add warmth to your images. Positioning the reflector at different angles allows you to direct the light exactly where you need it, whether you’re filling in shadows or highlighting specific areas. This simple tool gives you greater control over natural light, making it a must-have for outdoor shoots.
Want more in-depth tips on working with natural light? Check out our full YouTube video:
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