Learn how to calculate and predict the location of the sun at different times of the day. Where should you be and when should you get there to get that great shot?
Sometimes great images can come from the spontaneity of the moment. The perfect subject just happens to be framed by the perfect background with the perfect lighting. Other times, it takes a lot more “behind the scenes” planning. Some of the most satisfying images that I’ve created didn’t just happen, they were planned. To quote Hannibal Smith “I love it when a plan comes together!” (2 brownie points if you got the reference without having to look it up)
Since light is one of the most important factors in an image, and since one of the greatest natural key lights is the sun, knowing where the sun will be at different times will help you plan your killer photo. One of the questions my portraiture clients ask is “when and where should we meet?” My answer will depend on the info that I get from a free resource that I’ll share with you. Generally, (unless I’m forced to do s0) I’ll avoid the midday sun. Rarely does anything good come of it. Midday light is harsh light, can bring out the “squinties” and can throw things into overblown highlights and deep dark shadows. Unless you luck out with a little bit of cloud cover, try to avoid it. There are tricks to overcome midday light that I’ll cover in another article, but for now let’s focus on intentionally choosing a good time of day for ideal sunlight.
I love to shoot portraits outdoors in natural light and use a little pop of flash to fill in some of the shadows. To determine where we’ll shoot, at what time and in what direction we’ll be facing, I use an online resource called SunCalc. Here’s a link for you. Check out the video I created below to learn some tips on using this great online photography tool!
If you have an iPhone, below are 4 apps that seem to do the same thing … mobile!
“I pity the fool” who didn’t get the reference.. 😉
🙂
Hey Sonny, did you see the article in the NYTimes highlighting a series of photos of four sisters taken over 40 years? The photos were all taken in natural light. The photos tell a story about aging.
Berniece, I just took a look. A great and fascinating photo study! Thanks for sharing. Here’s the link to the article for reference: http://j.mp/1s1lYmh
Sonny, what a helpful articule! I am a beginner so your perspective has really helped!
You are very welcome. Glad it helped out! Yes, sometimes photography is all about perspective! 🙂