Last Updated on January 13, 2019
There could be no photography without a light source of some kind. Shooting during the day may be ideal, but making use of any other source of light is also an opportunity for more creative photos. That said, here are some tips on how to make use of any available light source:
Early Morning
This is the best lighting condition, but not the most convenient. But if you do get the chance to go out early in the day, try to make use of the wonderful light to capture interesting photos. If that won’t work, late afternoon light works just as fine.
Midday Light
Photo credit: Digital Photo Secrets
It is tough shooting landscapes in midday light. However, it works perfectly well in cities. The rather harsh light bounces off glass and steel buildings which then creates some interesting patterns in whatever is located across. Capturing it lends an additional quality to your photo rather than just it being of a building.
Although midday light is technically bad light, you can still capture interesting photos if you find an angle where it doesn’t create an inconvenience. The trick is to backlight the subject so the light doesn’t directly reflect on their faces.
Video credit: Saurav Sinha
Dusk
It’s a time when you can capture a magical blue sky as a backdrop to any scene. A photo taken at dusk will always have that romantic quality to it. While the sky does create the scene for you, making use of other light sources around adds more creative effect. For instance, candles at dusk produce a lovely glow that adds more detail into your shot.
Bad weather
Sudden downpours or any other form of inclement weather scrap whatever plans you had for your shoot. But it could also serve as an opportunity to capture a different aspect of a particular place. Besides, bad weather produces some of the most remarkable light which can lend an original quality to your photos. Think of it as a bonus in showing a different aspect to a really popular place.
Low Light
It can be really challenging to get a good shot in low light situations. While there are newer cameras that address that problem, some do not have the luxury. If you need to shoot in a place with a low light setting, like a bar, bring along a tripod for stability. You have to anticipate moments as well: any freeze in action is your opportunity to capture a moment.
Dark Space, Natural Light
Skylights are an absolute blessing because they solve lighting problems in dark spaces. They light up faces really well too so you won’t have too much trouble when capturing a human subject.
Cloudy with a Hint of Sun
Photo credit: Digital Photography School
Landscapes are always best when shot in dramatic light. However, that often means waiting for hours for the perfect condition.
Mist and Fog
The light that accompanies mist and fog is perfect for conveying emotion in photographs. In other words, you don’t need to have great weather to take beautiful photographs.
Alternative Light Sources
Your source of light won’t always come from a bulb or the sun. Sometimes, the headlights of cars, streetlights, and even flashlights can create interesting effects on photos. Slowing down your shutter speed can also create a blurry effect to convey motion.
Sunset
The sky at sunset will always have interesting colors. As amazing as that look in a photo, try to get other elements into the picture as well.
