Finding the light

I recently posted on my Facebook fan page, I’d be writing here hoping for some input on what moms and dads want to know and learn about photography. I think the one that stuck out is, “when should I take photos?”

Yeah this is a biggy! I imagine how confusing it must be think “hmm, it’s light out, now is a good time. It’s noon, the sun is high, PERFECT!” Only to come into look at photos of squinty eyes and harsh shadowing. Noon is the hardest time to shoot. Plain and simple.

When should you shoot? A good rule of thumb is the later the better. Or the “golden hour”. You can also get this same golden hour in the morning. A great resource for finding when your golden hour is www.golden-hour.com. A simple helpful tool to help you find the best time to shoot.

You can’t take your kids out then? Then look for shade. Shade is your best friend! Sit your awesome little subjects under a tree, in the garage or where ever you can get a little cover but still face the light! And it’s important to still face the light! If you don’t have the sun to help a little, you’ll end up wit light-less eyes!! And you don’t want that. Look for the light in your subjects eyes! That will tell you if you’ve picked a good spot!

Another huge thing to look for is dappled light. For example if you’re snapping up a tree, the light will peak through the leaves and make light “polka dots” on your subject. Another not so appealing thing for your photo!!

What to remember:

• Try and shoot early or late in the day. Check the www.golden-hour.com for the best times to take your photos.
• Look for the light in your subjects eyes! If you can see the sparkle, you’ve picked the right place!!
• Avoided dappled light! Look at the ground. If it’s spotted, find a new location!!
• Don’t sweat it if you have to shoot at noon! It’s important to capture the memories when you can!!

I think if you follow these few things you’ll end up with those beautifully lit photos you’ve been looking for!!
www.gailannephotography.com

Photographer, mother and crafty extraordinaire only not necessarily in that order. Gail is mother to three, wife to one and the owner/operator of Gail Anne Photography. Check back for more insightful photography posts by Gail the last Monday of each month!