Why is Natural Light In Photography Essential?
Natural light photography is essential for a number of reasons. The most important reason is that it allows you to capture natural images that are not overly processed. When you use artificial light, it can often look harsh and unflattering. Natural light also offers an unbeatable and unmistakable glow to your subject. Below is everything you need to know about the importance of natural photography, including:
- How to use natural lighting
- Choosing the right studio space
- Setting up your camera
- Perfect positioning for your subject
- Extra equipment to make your lighting just right
- How to make your photos stand out in post-production
Learn How to Use Natural Light in Your Studio Photos
If you’re looking to maximize your time in your photography studio, follow these tips below to help you get the most out of each and every photo session. Using these natural light and photography tips will help create gorgeous, well-lit portraits each and every time!
Choose the Right Studio Space
Not all studio spaces are created equal. When you’re scouting out a space to rent for your natural light photo studio, be sure to keep an eye out for the following things:
- Large windows that let in plenty of natural light
- A white or neutral-colored backdrop that will reflect light
- A space that can be easily rearranged to accommodate different setups
Fortunately, we at Brooklyn Photo Studios offer all of these features and have an ample selection of studios to help create your best natural light portrait.
Set up your Camera and Lighting Equipment
Once you’ve found the perfect space, it’s time to set up your camera and other natural light photo equipment. If you’re new to studio photography, here are a few things you’ll need:
- A DSLR camera
- A tripod
- An off-camera flash (if needed)
- A light meter (optional)
While you are using natural light, it’s important to keep your camera steady. That’s why tripods are essential for natural light usage in photography. If you’re shooting in a low-light situation, you may also need an off-camera flash to help add some light to your subject or you’ll need to adjust your shutter speed and/or aperture to compensate.
Other lighting equipments you should consider using are light reflectors and diffusers. Light reflectors help bounce light back onto your subject, while diffusers help soften the light.
Position your Subject in Front of a Window or Door for Natural Light
One of the most important things you need to do when setting up your natural light studio is to position your subject in front of a window or door. This will ensure that the natural light hits your subject directly, providing you with the best possible light for your photo.
If you’re shooting a portrait, be sure to have your subject face the light source. This will help avoid any harsh shadows on their face. If you’re shooting a product, you may want to consider shooting from different angles to see which provides the best light.
Use Reflectors to Bounce Light Onto your Subject’s Face
If you find that the light from the window is too harsh, you can use a reflector to bounce light back onto your subject’s face. This will help soften the light and avoid any harsh shadows. Reflectors are especially helpful when shooting portraits. Most reputable photo studios will have reflectors available for use. If you find that the light is still too harsh, you can also use a diffuser to help soften the light even further.
Take Test Shots to Adjust the Exposure and White Balance
Before you start taking photos, it’s important to take a few test shots to adjust the exposure and white balance. This will help ensure that your photos come out looking their best. To adjust the exposure, you’ll need to change the shutter speed and/or aperture. To adjust the white balance, you’ll need to change the Kelvin setting on your camera.
Use the Best Natural Light Photo Studio Brooklyn Offers at Brooklyn Photo Studios
Brooklyn Photo Studios understands how important it is to get the perfect shot. That’s why we offer a wide variety of studio spaces that are perfect for natural light photos as well as 17 different types of equipment to help you get the best possible shot. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book a studio space! From setting up your camera to adjusting the exposure, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to take stunning natural light photos.