How to Improve Lighting

Avoid Harsh Lighting

Taking pictures in harsh midday sunlight can create unflattering, overexposed images with strong shadows. This kind of lighting washes out important details and casts a hard, harsh look.

Embrace the Golden Hour

The golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—offers soft, warm lighting that highlights your features and creates a natural, flattering look. This time of day brings out the richness of colors and adds a subtle glow to your images.

Good vs. Bad Lighting Comparison

Bad Lighting

Harsh Lighting Example

Good Lighting

Golden Hour Example

Use Reflectors to Soften Shadows

Reflectors are a great way to bounce light back onto your subject, reducing shadows and brightening up dark areas of the image. You can use a professional reflector or even a white piece of paper to achieve this effect.

Find Natural Light Indoors

When shooting indoors, position yourself near a window where natural light can fill the room. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can be harsh, but diffuse lighting through curtains can provide a soft, flattering effect.

Avoid Overhead Lighting

Overhead lighting often creates unflattering shadows, especially around the eyes and nose. Instead, use side lighting or position lights at eye level to create a more even and balanced look.