Depending on how you use natural light, you can create atmospheric, dramatic, or soft images. In this article, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your outdoor shots using natural backlight, sidelight, overcast skies, reflectors, and external flash units.
Backlight
With backlighting, the subject stands between the camera and the sun. Ideally, the sun should not be directly in the frame to avoid harsh silhouettes or blown-out highlights. A 45-degree angle often works best.
One major advantage of backlighting is the clear separation of the subject from the background. The resulting light contour adds depth and contrast to the subject. This also enhances the location, as elements in the background gain a three-dimensional feel, making the scene appear more dynamic.
Sidelight
Sidelight refers to sunlight used as the main light source from the side. To get the best results, it’s important to wait for the right sun position. If the sun is too high, it can create unflattering shadows, especially around the eyes.
A 45-degree angle from the front is ideal for achieving natural-looking light. Harsh sunlight can produce strong contrasts, which may emphasize skin imperfections but can also be used creatively to add dimension – such as the well-known Rembrandt lighting effect. Sidelight is often used during the golden hour to create soft, flattering light.
Overcast Sky
An overcast sky is often referred to as a natural softbox, as it produces soft, diffused light. This type of light casts minimal shadows and flatters the subject. However, it often lacks directional quality, which can result in flatter, less engaging images.
Still, this lighting is ideal for many subjects because it provides a balanced and natural look. To add more depth to such scenes, tools like reflectors or artificial light sources can be introduced.
Reflector
A reflector allows you to control and manipulate available light. Most reflectors come in 5-in-1 versions, with key surfaces being white, black, and a diffusion layer in the middle.
Key Functions of Reflector Surfaces:
-
Black side: Reduces light and can be used under cloudy conditions to enhance contrast and add depth.
-
White side: Reflects light to brighten areas such as faces or reduce contrast. Especially effective with backlighting to create a secondary key light.
-
Diffusion layer: Softens light and reduces contrast and harsh shadows, which is especially useful with sidelight.
Reflectors should be used intentionally. For example, with backlighting, avoid reflecting light directly from the opposite side as this can create an unnatural “sun sandwich” effect. Instead, position the reflector at an angle that complements the natural direction of the light.
External Flash
Competing with natural daylight requires a lot of light power. Here, external flashes have a clear advantage over continuous lights. They allow you to shape the light and create studio-quality lighting outdoors.
Pros and Cons of Flash Units:
-
Advantages:
-
Creative flexibility through precise light control
-
Independence from natural light sources
-
Ability to create a studio-like look outside
-
-
Challenges:
-
Bulky equipment such as stands and modifiers
-
High power consumption, often requiring strong batteries
-
Flash can produce a more artificial look, which may not always be desired
-
External flash units are especially useful for larger shoots that require precise lighting setups.
How Can RECCE Help You?
RECCE is a platform that offers a comprehensive overview of more than 250 carefully curated outdoor locations. You can filter your search by color, style, and neighborhood to find the perfect setting for your shoot.
Each location includes a 360-degree view with an integrated sun path. This allows you to know exactly when and where the sun will be—even before you visit the location. Additionally, every location comes with a recommended time for the best lighting conditions, typically when backlight or sidelight is most effective.
Obstacles like buildings that could impact sunlight are also taken into account. With RECCE, you can plan your outdoor shoots efficiently and make the most of the available light for your photography
