Light It Up

Natural or artificial lighting? You decide.

WRITTEN BY CLARA JACOBSEN

Throughout a photographer’s long career, many are faced with the question; is it better to use natural or artificial light when taking photos? Although there is no right or wrong answer for which is best, let’s go through some pros and cons of each. There are many key differences you can take into account regarding the use of both which will be explained and discussed here.

The definition of natural light is a self-generated source which can come in a spectrum of dynamic visible colours, meaning that the intensity and mix of colours changes with the time of day. Which can also be thought of as available light, such as that produced by the sun or moon.

Whereas artificial lighting is man-made and the light will be generated from another energy source such as a streetlight, lamp, or even an LED light. Emitting a static spectrum means their mix of colours cannot change with the time of day. As a result of this, an artificial light source will try and replicate the natural light.

Benefits of Natural Light

The number one benefit of using natural lighting is that it is free and it’s always around, natural light is always readily available. All you need is a camera and some sun or moonlight which will be everywhere you go. There are no expensive investments in lighting equipments to be made or the hassle it takes to set up and adjust the correct light settings as you would within a studio.

Natural light doesn’t have to be adjusted, you will just need to find a location with the best lighting for the look you are going for which could be much easier. Going with natural light is also going to give off a more unprocessed look to your images as it can create an airy, romantic feeling to the picture the photographer takes. Natural light is also great to begin with if you’re just starting out your photography journey as it’s much easier to learn and get out there without all the pain of the skills you need with studio equipment.

Cons of Natural Light

While there are many positive reasons why to choose natural lighting, there are also a few cons that come with it. One of the main challenging aspects of natural lighting has been with the weather. It can be very unpredictable at times.

Depending on the location, the season, and the time of day, lighting can produce many different colours and contrasts that you just probably aren’t looking for in your photographs.

For example, there might not be any shade, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere and over exposure, or light may be creating unwanted dark shadows in areas you are photographing.

Lack of privacy is also a main issue while doing outdoor photoshoots, I myself have witnessed this first hand from others staring at what’s going on or simply getting in the way of the shot. When you’re in a public place there is very little you can do as photographer to keep people away. Having a confident model with experience in these situations is always a plus. Otherwise you could be spending more time worrying about those around you rather than focusing on your pictures.

Benefits of Artificial Light

The most first and foremost benefit of using artificial lighting is that you can control the environment. You are able to control every aspect of the photo shoot at your own will. You can monitor the quality and intensity of light to suit each of your needs in every photograph.

You can create the effects yourself with studio lighting and depending on which artificial source you use, natural lighting could even be replicated to further enhance a more ‘natural’ look and in your photographs without even going outside, Adobe editing programs could also help you achieve these looks. Artificial lighting can mean the access of power and amenities! Being within a studio can be much more comfortable to work in then the hot unpredictable outdoors. This is not only a benefit for you but a benefit to anyone you’re working with. It could mean that people may be more open to working with you or that you can continue to work no matter the weather conditions you may be faced with.

Cons of Artificial Light

Even though artificial light offers much greater control over your photo shoots, it most definitely requires a lot more equipment and takes longer setting everything up. You’ve also got to leave time to pack everything afterawards. Unlike the free natural lighting, artificial lighting however can cost quite a lot of money if you’re willing to spend (such as light stands, lighting kits, reflective umbrellas). These lighting kits also require a lot of practice and experience to get the right shot you’re looking for. Additionally, paying for a studio can be so pricey. If this isn’t a hit your budget can take, natural lighting may be for you. At least until you have that opportunity.

Not only does shooting in a studio require more gear and more knowledge but there also might be some tight time constraints. Whether it’s an owned or rented venue, you’ll need to dedicate some time to setting up and taking down equipment as many may come with fixed times of use, restricting what you can and can’t do. Ultimately it will all come down to your personal choice and experience as a photographer, as well as the certain look and style you are trying to obtain within your images. Natural lighting is generally more widely used and liked for street, atheistic vibes, contemporary style, etc. Whereas artificial lighting is typically used for commercial, products, and fashion photography which could also add a very catalogue feel to your images.

All of these are points to consider when you’re deciding how you’re wanting your next photoshoot to go. Often the type of shoot will control the location as sometimes certain shoots will require indoor or outdoor lighting.

Remember, you can use both. Mixing natural and artificial lighting of course can come with it’s own budget problems, techniques and time or location constraints but it’s all about finding out which one works best for you. It’s going to be different for all of us and don’t be discouraged if it takes you a while to figure that out. You’ll find what goes best with your style eventually.