Natural light photography creates timeless, authentic family portraits with a warmth that studio lighting often can’t match. Learning to master natural light will elevate your family photography and create images clients will treasure for generations.
The golden hour—the hour after sunrise or before sunset—provides the most flattering light for family portraits. The low angle of the sun creates a warm, soft glow that minimizes shadows and flatters all skin tones. Schedule sessions during these times whenever possible.
Open shade is your friend when shooting during midday hours. Look for areas under large trees, porches, or buildings where families can be evenly lit without harsh shadows or squinting. The light should still be bright enough to create catchlights in the eyes.
Backlighting creates a magical effect when used correctly. Position the family with the sun behind them, slightly overexpose to maintain detail in their faces, and capture the beautiful rim light that creates separation from the background. A reflector can help fill in shadows on faces.
Window light is perfect for indoor family portraits. Position the family at a 45-degree angle to a large window for directional light that creates dimension. The larger the window, the softer the light will be. Pull sheer curtains for even softer diffusion if the light is too harsh.
Cloudy days provide a giant softbox effect that’s ideal for family portraits. The even, diffused light minimizes shadows and allows for shooting at any time of day. Colors appear more saturated on cloudy days, making them excellent for fall foliage or colorful clothing.
Reflectors are essential tools for natural light photographers. A 5-in-1 reflector can bounce light back onto faces to fill shadows, add catchlights to eyes, or diffuse harsh sunlight. Teach an older child or assistant to hold the reflector, or bring a stand if working alone.
Metering correctly is crucial for natural light portraits. Spot meter on the subjects’ faces, especially when backlighting, to ensure proper exposure. Shooting in RAW format gives you more flexibility to adjust exposure in post-processing without losing image quality.
Composition becomes even more important with natural light. Use the environment to frame your subjects, incorporate natural elements that complement the family’s clothing choices, and be mindful of distracting backgrounds that compete with your subjects.