5 Considerations for Using Natural Light Indoors
What is Natural Light?
First off, let's go back to 4th grade science and define natural light so we start on the same page. Natural light is simply light that comes from nature. In other words, natural light refers to light that comes from the sun (or in some cases, the moon).
Natural light can be found both indoors and outdoors. This blog will focus on using natural light indoors.
5 Considerations
1. Consider all the light sources. Each light source will have a different color temperature - YES, light has a color to it. Natural light coming in through windows will be more white while the lights in your home will be more yellow/orange.
Mixing them usually results in the color balance being completely off or the photo might have orange spots in it. The best way to solve this is to pick one type of light source and stick to it. My favorite, of course, is natural light.
2. Consider the time of day. Generally speaking between 11-2 is going to be the best time of day to take photos inside. The light at this time is bright but soft. You want to avoid times of the day when the sun is directly shining in through a window or that is dim.
3. Consider cardinal directions. YES, again we are going back to elementary school. Find which window(s) in your house face north. These are going to have the best quality of light since the sun is high but also slightly to the south.
4. Consider subject placement. You want to place your subject with his or her face towards the window. You'll be able to capture gorgeous catchlights doing it this way.
5. Consider camera placement. As the photographer, you will want to stand at a 45 or 90 degree angle to the subject. It is possible that you may be able to stand directly in front too if you can manage to do so without blocking the light.
It's Not Just Me
The above straight out of camera photo was taken indoors by Conquer Your Camera Graduate Christine Fleming.
You can do it too! You just have to pick up your camera and give it a try!