Harness Available Light for Stunning Photographs Anytime of Day

As a photographer, I'm inspired by the beauty of available light. The golden glow of the sun, the soft light on overcast days, and the luminance of street lights all present unique moments for capturing stunning photos. During many of my photo sessions, I explore the city with my clients, uncovering intriguing settings and lighting that aid in telling their stories. In this post, I'll provide practical insights on using available light at any time of day.

The Magic of Natural Light

Light and shadows are in our surroundings. Mastering the art of manipulating these elements to create dramatic photographs is an essential skill for photographers. Sometimes light and shadows are abundant, while at others, they are scarce. Their interaction with the environment can greatly influence the mood and tone of photos, making them a vital aspect of photography.

Moreover, the changing seasons bring unique qualities of light and atmosphere. In autumn, the warm hues of falling leaves can form a vivid tapestry of color, while winter sunlight offers a crisp, clear atmosphere, providing a sense of freshness and clarity to images. Spring often introduces gentle, pastel tones that symbolize renewal and growth, whereas summer presents vibrant, saturated colors that inject energy into photographs.

TIP: In bright light conditions, I use a lower ISO with a faster shutter speed.

In low light conditions, I increase my ISO and slow down the shutter speed.

A happy dog running on grass. Photographed using natural light by Melissa Toledo.

The Beauty of Cloudy Days in Photography

Cloudy days offer unique advantages that can enhance the quality of images. Overcast conditions can provide a soft, diffused light that is incredibly flattering for various subjects, including portraits, landscapes, and still life.

When clouds blanket the sky, they act as a natural diffuser, scattering sunlight in a way that creates a gentle illumination. This soft light minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, allowing for a more even exposure across your subject. The clouds themselves can also add a sense of mood and atmosphere to photographs, making them feel more evocative and intimate.

Another significant benefit of cloudy weather is the comfort it provides for your subjects. On bright, sunny days, the intensity of the sunlight can cause discomfort, leading to squinting, frowning, or other unflattering expressions. In contrast, the gentle light of an overcast sky allows you to position your client towards the sun without worrying about them being blinded or uncomfortable. This not only helps in capturing more natural and relaxed expressions but also allows for longer shooting sessions without the need for frequent breaks to escape the glare of the sun.

A joyful farmer smells her flowers. Photographed using natural light by Melissa Toledo.

The Golden Hour: A Timeless Classic

The golden hour, occurring just after sunrise or before sunset, is an ideal time for photographers. During this period, the sun bathes everything in a warm, golden light, and its low angle produces long shadows that can turn an ordinary photo into something extraordinary. Photographers love this time for capturing stunning portraits.

TIP: When I'm out photographing during the golden hour, I focus on finding unique backgrounds, such as interesting urban architecture or beautiful natural elements, to complement the warm light.

For this couple shot, we selected the Portland skyline as our backdrop. In the evening, the sun sets behind the city as it descends westward, offering opportunities for stunning imagery.

A young couple holds hands at sunset. Photographed using natural light by Melissa Toledo.

Street Lights: The Urban Glow

As the sun sets and city lights come on, streetlights provide an excellent light source for photography. Their glowy luminance creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere ideal for capturing intriguing moments.

TIP: If you notice banding from the lights in your photos, you may need to adjust your shutter speed.

I often explore city streets in search of distinctive lighting sources. Street lights can create striking shadows that add depth to your photos. For instance, during a portrait session with a client, we discovered a warehouse with broken windows near a street light. He stopped to light a cigarette, and I captured the shot.

A man with a cigarette. Photographed using available street light by Melissa Toledo.

Practical Tips for Working with Available Light

• Scout Locations: Before your shoot, explore the area. Identify intriguing backgrounds and light sources that will enhance your portraits.

  
  

• Be Flexible: Available light is ever-changing. Stay open to adjusting your plans based on the light's behavior and quality.

  
  

• Experiment: Dive into different angles and compositions. Sometimes the best photos come from trying new perspectives.

  
  

• Embrace the Unexpected: The most unforgettable moments often occur spontaneously. Keep your camera ready and be receptive to unique scenarios as they unfold.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Becoming skilled at capturing your observations is an incredible ability. Taking advantage of natural light for urban portraits means portraying the authentic setting. Whether you're photographing the gentle, diffused light on cloudy days, the warm radiance of the golden hour, or the illuminations of streetlights, each instance presents a unique opportunity to create breathtaking images.

Grab your camera, step outside, and start exploring the beauty available light offers. You’ll be amazed by the stunning photographs you can capture at any hour. Happy shooting!