When you’re starting out in portrait photography, the easiest way to get good lighting is by using natural light. Sunlight (natural light) is the simplest and quickest way to light portrait photography. The trick to lighting in this way is in the blocking and positioning of the light.
Window Light for Portraiture
An easy way to get good lighting for your subject is to use a window. The walls around it will naturally block the light, creating a directional light source. The size of the window will determine how diffused the light is. Look for soft light – that is, light that’s been spread out. This is more flattering for portraits because it helps to hide pores and smooth wrinkles. It reduces the amount of difference between shadows and highlights. You’ll find soft light outside on an overcast day, in shade or through north-facing windows with no direct sun.
In the image above, for example, there are no direct sun rays coming through the window. The light is already scattered although the window is not even big. This spread of light is directional and softens facial features. Hard light on the other hand means direct sunlight.
Note that when using a window light source, the walls around the window will naturally block out direct sunlight. This means that only soft and diffused light will enter the room. You can manipulate this natural effect by moving your subject closer or farther away from the window, depending on how much light you want in your shot.
So keep this in mind as a general rule: You’ll want to look for soft light when photographing people. That is scattered or diffused light that’s spread out over a large area. Again, this reduces the contrast between shadows and highlights on your subject’s face, making their skin look smoother and pores less noticeable. You can also achieve this effect outside on an overcast day or inside through north-facing windows with no direct sun shining through them.
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If you are interested to see examples of portraits using natural light setup, including headshot photos, you’re welcome to check out my fine art portrait photography portfolio. Discover a wide range of portraits and read testimonials from customers who have hired me before. And if you’d like to see my latest photos, follow me on my Instagram. Book your shoot today!
