When you’re just starting out in photography, one of the biggest game-changers isn’t your gear it’s the light.
Whether you’re snapping shots with your phone or a DSLR, understanding how to work with light can instantly take your images from “meh” to “wow.”
Here’s what every beginner should know about using light in photography:
1. Natural Light is Your Best Friend
If you’re not using studio lights yet, don’t worry sunlight is free and powerful.
- Golden Hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) gives a warm, soft glow perfect for portraits and landscapes.
- Midday Sun can be harsh, so look for shaded areas to avoid squinting subjects and blown-out highlights.
- Overcast Days are magic clouds act like a giant softbox, diffusing light evenly and reducing shadows.
Quick Tip: Always look at where the light is coming from—behind, in front, or to the side of your subject.
2. Learn to See the Light
Start noticing:
- Where shadows fall
- How light changes colours
- What time of day your favourite photos were taken
Train your eye to see how light interacts with your environment. It’s a free skill that improves with practice.
3. Use Reflectors (Even DIY Ones)
A reflector helps bounce light back onto your subject—especially helpful when shooting portraits.
No gear? No problem:
- White cardboard
- A piece of tinfoil
- A car sunshade
These DIY tools can soften shadows and add glow to faces.
4. Try Backlighting for a Magical Feel
Ever seen photos where the sun glows behind a subject’s hair or creates a dreamy outline? That’s backlighting.
It’s perfect for adding depth, drama, or a magical mood especially in nature or portrait shots.
5. Avoid Direct Flash Find Soft Light
Built-in camera flash can flatten your photos. Instead, try:
- Shooting near a window
- Turning on a lamp for warm indoor light
- Using sheer curtains to diffuse window light
Pro Tip: If you must use flash, try bouncing it off a ceiling or wall.
6. Play with Shadows and Contrast
Don’t be afraid of shadows they add texture and depth.
Experiment by placing your subject next to blinds, through leaves, or near objects that cast interesting shapes.
Final Thoughts: Light is Everything
You don’t need fancy equipment to take great photos. You just need to learn how to see light, move with it, and use it creatively.
So next time you pick up your camera (or phone), pause and ask:
“Where’s the light coming from and how can I make it work for me?”
Your photos will thank you.