Light is the key ingredient that can transform an ordinary photo into an extraordinary masterpiece. Understanding the impact of different lighting conditions and timing can make a significant difference in the success of each session. It's for this reason that I will share some of my insights, about the importance of timing and why shooting during specific times of the day can ultimately lead to more flattering and remarkable results.
The Pitfalls of Midday Sun: Unveiling the Unflattering Truth
One crucial aspect to consider when scheduling my client sessions is avoiding the harsh and unflattering light of midday. During this time, the sun is positioned directly overhead, casting harsh shadows and creating strong highlights that can be really unflattering. Here's why midday sun is so tricky.
Harsh Shadows: The overhead position of the sun at midday creates harsh shadows on the face and under the eyes, which results in unflattering facial expressions and uneven lighting across facial features.
Squinting and Discomfort: The bright, intense light during midday often causes clients to squint, leading to strained and unnatural facial expressions. Moreover, in the height of summer, the discomfort caused by the heat can make everyone feel stressed and uncomfortable.
Lack of Detail and Colours: The strong sunlight at midday can wash out colours, making images appear flat and lacking depth. Fine details and textures can also be lost due to the absence of softer, directional light.
Embrace the Golden Hours: Capturing the Magic of Soft Light
To truly elevate your session, I usually recommend scheduling sessions during the "golden hours," which occur shortly after sunrise or before sunset. Here's why these time frames offer the perfect conditions for stunning photographs:
Soft and Warm Light: During the golden hours, the sun is lower in the sky, providing a beautiful, soft, and warm light. This type of light wraps around subjects, casting gentle shadows and adding depth to the images, resulting in a more flattering and natural look.
Vibrant Colours: The warm hues and gentle light of the golden hours add richness and vibrancy to your images. The colours become more saturated, enhancing the overall visual impact your photographs.
Magical Atmosphere: The golden hours create a magical atmosphere, evoking a sense of tranquillity and romance. The soft light and warm tones lend an ethereal quality to the images, enhancing the mood and storytelling aspect of your photos.
Maximising Your Photography Session: Timing is Everything
When planning your session, keep in mind the following things to maximise your experience and the quality of your images:
Discuss Options: Let's talk about what works best. Depending on the location and the time of year, some locations might be better than others. So it is best to have a few options to start with.
Flexibility: Be open to scheduling your session during the golden hours. We all want your photographs to be flattering and beautiful, and juggling times to better suit the location and local light conditions makes a world of difference.
Be Prepared: Plan accordingly for early morning or late afternoon shoots. You might need to plan ahead for differing sleep routines, clothing choices and transportation. Arriving well-rested and prepared will ensure you're ready to make the most of the optimal lighting conditions.
I am passionate about capturing the beauty of my clients and their surroundings in the most flattering and captivating way. By understanding the importance of timing and the impact of different lighting conditions, we can create stunning images that showcase your story.
"Embrace the magic of the golden hour, where soft, warm light paints your moments with enchantment."