Taking natural light headshots requires understanding the available light and using it creatively to achieve the desired result. Here are some tips for taking natural light headshots both indoors and outdoors.
Indoors:
Find a large window or skylight to use as your light source. This will provide soft, directional light that will help to illuminate the subject’s face.
Position the subject facing the window, with the window to their side or slightly behind them. This will help to create a soft, even light that will minimize shadows and bring out the subject’s features.
Use a reflector to bounce light back into the shadow areas, if necessary. This can help to balance the light and fill in any dark areas on the subject’s face.
Experiment with different distances from the window and different camera angles to find the best lighting for your subject.
Outdoors:
Look for open shade, such as the shadow of a building or a tree, to shoot in. This will provide soft, even light that is ideal for headshots.
Position the subject so that the light is coming from the side, rather than directly overhead. This will help to minimize harsh shadows on the subject’s face.
Use a reflector to bounce light back into the shadow areas, if necessary.
Experiment with different camera angles and distances to find the best lighting for your subject.
In both cases, it’s important to be mindful of the direction and intensity of the light, and to make any necessary adjustments to your camera settings to ensure proper exposure. When taking natural light headshots, it’s also important to work quickly and efficiently, as the light can change rapidly, especially outdoors.