Ten natural light portrait mistakes you should stop making

Natural can do so much for you whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer. However, if you’re still new to the craft, there are some essential things you need to understand to make the best out of it. In her latest video, Julia Trotti shares ten common mistakes photographers make when shooting portraits in natural light and gives tips on how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring the background

Ensure the background has consistent lighting with your subject. If your subject is in the shade, keep the background in the shade as well. Inconsistent lighting can distract from the subject and create a dull, flat, and/or unbalanced image.

2. Shooting at the wrong time of day

Consider the quality of light needed for your desired style. While golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) is popular for soft, dreamy portraits, the midday sun can create vibrant, contrasty images. Experiment with different times of day to find what suits your style best.

3. Avoiding midday Sun

We all avoid the midday sun as it can create harsh and unflattering shadows. While it can be harsh, it can also produce striking portraits if you know how to use this challenging light. Use shade, backlight, or a reflector to soften the light and create different effects.

4. Top light

Speaking of the midday sun, be mindful of top light, which can cast unflattering shadows under the subject’s eyes. Use a reflector or fill flash to soften the shadows, or change your perspective to avoid them.

5. Not paying attention to light direction

Be aware of where the light is coming from and how it’s hitting your subject. Adjust your position or ask your subject to move to avoid harsh shadows or uneven lighting.

6. Not having enough fill light

When shooting backlit portraits, ensure your subject is well-lit. Use a reflector or fill flash to add light to their face and prevent them from blending into the background.

7. Neglecting the catchlights

Catchlights are the small bright spots in the iris that add life to the eyes, truly making them “windows to the soul.” Make sure the catchlights are present in your subject’s eyes to create a more striking portrait.

8. Ignoring color casts

Color casts can occur when colorful environments surround your subject. Use a reflector to block the color cast or rely on editing to remove it.

9. Relying too much on shade

While shade can provide soft, diffused light, don’t rely on it exclusively. Experiment with different lighting scenarios to add variety and dimension to your portraits.

10. Not assessing the light

Always assess the lighting conditions before choosing a location. Prioritize good lighting over a perfect background. A well-lit portrait can still look great even with a less-than-ideal background.

By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you can raise your portrait photography to a new level and create stunning portraits using natural light. Make sure to watch Julia’s video for plenty of excellent examples.

I always remind you that mistakes are a part of learning too, and I’ll do it again. :) Don’t be afraid to make them! Experiment with different lighting techniques, pay attention to detail and have fun in the process.