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Clinton Barter

Flash Verses Natural Light Photography

Updated: May 17, 2023


What are the Pro's and Con's?


Photography is all about capturing light, but when it comes to choosing the right light source, photographers often face a dilemma between natural light and flash photography. Natural light photography is all about harnessing the beauty of natural light to create stunning images, while flash photography relies on artificial light to illuminate the subject. In this blog, we'll explore the pros and cons of each approach, and provide insights into how to make the most of these light sources in your photography

Natural light:

Pros:

  • Can create a soft, natural-looking image with a flattering, even distribution of light

  • Can be used to create a variety of moods and effects depending on the time of day and weather conditions

  • Doesn't require any additional equipment or setup

Cons:

  • Relies heavily on the availability of natural light, which can be unpredictable and limited depending on the location and time of day

  • Can create harsh shadows or overexposed highlights in certain lighting conditions, particularly during midday sun

  • Requires careful positioning and composition to make the most of the available light



"Light makes photography. Embrace light. Admire it. Love it. But above all, know light. Know it for all you are worth, and you will know the key to photography.”

– George Eastman




Flash:

Pros:

  • Provides a consistent, controllable light source regardless of the time of day or location

  • Can be used to fill in shadows or add dramatic effects to a photo

  • Can be used in low-light situations where natural light is not available or practical




Cons:

  • Can create harsh, unnatural-looking light if not used carefully

  • Requires additional equipment, such as a flash unit or diffuser, which can add cost and complexity to a shoot

  • May require additional time and setup to get the desired effect

Ultimately, the decision to use natural light or flash will depend on a number of factors, including the desired mood and effect of the photo, the available lighting conditions, and the photographer's personal style and preferences. Many photographers prefer to use a combination of both natural light and flash, using flash to fill in shadows or add a pop of light to a subject while still relying primarily on natural light for the overall look and feel of the image.

Have fun out there! Remember to keep practicing your craft!


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