The Magic of Lighting: How to Use Natural Light for Stunning Photos

Simple Tips to Make the Most of What’s Already Available—No Fancy Gear Needed!

Why Lighting is Everything

If you’ve ever looked at a photo and thought, “Wow, that looks amazing!” chances are, great lighting played a huge part. Lighting can make or break a photo, and while professional photographers have access to studio lights and fancy gear, you don’t need all that to get beautiful shots. The secret? Natural light!

As a remote photographer, I guide my clients to use the light available to them, often just by working with the sunlight coming through their windows. Let’s break down how you can master natural light and transform your photos with just a little know-how.

The Best Times for Natural Light

One of the most important things to know about natural light is that not all sunlight is created equal. Here’s when you’ll get the best results:

• When the skies are gray you will get a beautiful diffused natural light when shooting outdoors.
• Never ever, if you can help it shoot in mid day sun, full sun. You will see every pore on your skin and sweat bead from the heat!
• When shooting outside you have two light options really. 1. Shoot for golden hour times... sunrise and sunset. 2. Shoot at any time of day as long as you are in full shade and watching how the light is bouncing from surfaces at your location.

Where to Position Yourself (and Your Camera)

Now that we know when natural light is most flattering, the next step is positioning yourself in relation to the light source. The direction of the light is just as important as the time of day.

• Facing the Light
• When you position yourself facing the light source (like a window), you’ll get soft, even lighting on your face or subject. This is great for portraits, as it highlights your features in the most flattering way.
• Side Lighting for Drama
• If you want a more dramatic effect, try positioning yourself at a 45-degree angle to the light. This creates shadows that add depth and dimension to your photo. It’s perfect for close-ups, fashion shots, and creating a more moody atmosphere.
• Backlighting for a Stunning Effect
• Backlighting is when the light source is behind you, creating a halo effect around your subject. This technique works beautifully for creating ethereal portraits, as it highlights the edges of your subject and gives a soft, glowing look. If you’re shooting outside, this can also create a nice lens flare, adding a touch of magic to your images.

Tips for Getting the Best Out of Natural Light

Even with the best natural light, you still need a few tricks up your sleeve to make sure your photos come out looking fantastic. Here are some tips to help you make the most of natural lighting:

• Avoid Harsh Light Directly on Your Skin
• While sunlight can be beautiful, if it's too harsh, it can create unflattering shadows or cause you to squint. Try shooting in shaded areas or using curtains to soften the light. You can also use a sheer curtain or a translucent umbrella to diffuse the light before it hits you.
• Mind the Background
• Don’t forget that the light is also affecting the background! A well-lit background can add depth to your shot, while a dark or cluttered background can distract from the subject. When you’re positioning yourself, consider how the light interacts with the whole scene—not just the subject. (Watch how it is bouncing)

How I Help Clients Maximize Natural Light (Without Leaving Home)

One of the best parts of my remote photography sessions is helping clients use the natural light in their own space to create amazing photos. I guide you through positioning your phone, setting up your shot - no fancy gear or expensive equipment needed. Whether you’re taking headshots or capturing branding images, natural light can bring out the best in you.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Natural Light

Natural light is a gift—it’s free, it’s available nearly everywhere, and with a little knowledge, you can use it to make your photos look stunning. By experimenting with different times of day, light sources, and angles, you’ll start to see just how transformative lighting can be. If you need help getting your photos just right, I’m always here to guide you remotely!