Getting Good Lighting for Your Photography

When it comes to great photography, lighting is probably the most important factor, outside of your camera and lens. To get good lighting, professionals spends thousands of dollar just to provide the best environment for their models and subjects. Here is how you too can get good lighting without spending the big money on expensive gear.

Without a doubt, the easiest way to get great lighting, is to shoot your subject inside next to a window. Cover the window with a fabric that will diffuse the light. A thin bed sheet against a sunny window will provide the similar effects of a soft box. Have your subjects face into the window and into the light source, since this will provide a more flattering shadow effect. Facing away from the light source will mean a less flattering look, and cause their face to look wider and more distorted. If the window is not covered, you can still get a great shot, but having the subject look directly into the light. However, as this will cause it be to difficult for them to open their eyes, get them to look down or away from the direct sun, while still keeping their face pointing towards the light.

It is worth asking them to step outside even on a sunny day. Having cloud cover will help diffuse the light and mask their face from harsh shadows and sharp lines. If you do not have any cloud cover, then bring along a cheap reflector which you can build yourself. Professional reflectors are made with either tin, copper, silver or gold. Whichever material you decide to use, make sure it allows you to direct the light without causing any harsh reflection onto their face. For example, covering a piece of flat board with aluminum foil, will not be sufficient, since it will reflect too much light. Instead, opt for a reflective but blurred sheet of silver, which you can easily buy from fabric or stationary shops.

If you decide to shoot under the shade, then try to get some light under their chin. This can also be achieved with a reflector. Also a sheet to block out the direct sun is a good idea, since it will take away any back light. Back light in an indoor shoot can cause many problems with aberrations and fringing, so make sure you are able to control these to not cause any over or under exposure in your shots.