Natural light is the most beautiful light source available, but it is also the most unpredictable. You cannot dim it, move it, or plug it into a wall outlet.
To deliver professional portraits consistently, you must learn to read outdoor light, manage harsh highlights, and find soft shadows regardless of the time of day.
Key takeaways
- Use backlighting during golden hour to create a beautiful halo effect.
- Shoot in open shade during midday to avoid harsh contrast on skin tones.
- Use reflectors to bounce soft light back into your subject's eyes.
1. Maximizing the Golden Hour
The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset are famous for a reason: the low sun creates warm, soft, flattering light that minimizes skin blemishes and harsh shadows.
To get that warm glow, backlight your subject so the sun illuminates their hair from behind. Use a simple white reflector to bounce light back onto their face and fill in shadows.
2. Shooting in Harsh Midday Sun
If you have to shoot at noon on a clear day, don't worry. Do not shoot in direct sunlight, which causes deep shadows under the eyes. Instead, look for open shade, like the shadow of a building or a tree canopy.
This gives you a large, soft light source that is easy to expose for and keeps your subject comfortable.
Look for light-colored concrete or sand to act as natural reflectors that bounce light back onto your subject.
EventBit Team
Product & Design
Frequently asked questions
What reflector should I buy?
A 5-in-1 reflector is the most versatile. Use the white side for a subtle fill, and the silver side for overcast days when you need a punchier light.
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