Photography is all about catching that magic moment when the light is just right. However, lighting also provides some challenges. Here are some ideas to help the beginning photographer whether you’re indoors or out.

Balance Bright or Dim Light

In low light conditions, try using your camera’s night shooting mode, or lower the ISO to 50 or 100 to get rich detail in low light. Use a tripod, or steady yourself against a stable object to avoid moving the camera. In bright light, try your camera’s Beach or Sunshine mode, or manually choose a fast shutter speed to control the amount of light that comes in.

Shooting Indoors

Avoid using your flash. Instead, provide as much natural light as possible – open curtains, or even the door. Or use lamps to add light to the scene. Your flash mutes color and casts stark, deep shadows that are especially unflattering in portraits. Don’t place your subject in front of a bright window or they will become a silhouette (although this can be a nice effect when done intentionally). Try placing them off to the side instead, or facing a natural light source.

Shooting Outdoors

Try to have the sun behind you when you shoot. This will provide the most flattering light to your subject. As discussed in an earlier post, shoot early or later in the day – dawn and dusk provide lovely light, whereas midday light can be harsh. Take advantage of overcast days for photography. That’s when the light is even, and casts almost no shadows.