LIGHT: 3 TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING PEOPLE

Definition of photography: the art or process of producing images by the action of radiant energy and especially light on a sensitive surface (such as film or an optical sensor)

Light is everything! Basically, photography is painting with light! When you are taking a picture, it is important to notice where the light is or plan to add light to capture the image you want to create or document. The best place to start is to use the natural or ambient light in any given situation.

Direct sunlight is not always best.

Bright sunshine might seem like the best place to photograph your favorite people, but it can be harsh and make hard shadows. Try turning the faces of those you are photographing away from the sun or put them in full shade. Bright sunlight will wrap around and provide light on skin without being in the eyes of your subject or producing harsh shadows. Dense shade will create softness, however it might require camera settings that will allow for more light to reach the camera sensor OR an additional source of soft light. Sometimes concrete pavement or a gravel road can provide additional light to a face in the shade.

2. Cloudy days are a good thing.

Clouds are God’s soft box because they provide beautiful diffused light! The bigger the light source the more diffused and beautiful the light becomes. The sun is a giant light source, but it is very harsh. Add cloud cover and “Voila”! You’ve got a giant soft box.

3. Use window light for indoor shots.

Indoor photography can be tricky because artificial lighting can produce different colors of light and it might not provide enough light to capture the photographs you are trying to achieve. Windows with natural light pouring in can provide beautiful lighting and a lot of opportunity for experimentation. It is important to orient faces toward the window light if you want to see facial features in your photograph. You can also create a silhouette with window light and low exposures.

It can be tons of fun to try different shots in all types of light and experiment with shadows created by harsh light versus looking for even diffused lighting under cloud cover or shade. The options and opportunities are endless. Understanding light can be overwhelming and complex, but there is an adventure waiting for you in “painting” with light that cannot be denied.

Have fun!

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