What is the difference between natural lighting and studio lighting?
Since our natural light studio opened up, we’ve seen all kinds of photographers come through.
These photographers work with both natural and studio light to create their work. The lighting a photographer chooses usually plays a part in their personal style, giving their photos a certain look and feel. For reference, natural light is all about using the sun’s light to create your desired effect, while studio light allows you to control artificial light to get a precise look.
If you’re new to photography and trying to find your own style, or you’re an experienced photographer looking to mix things up, exploring different lighting options is a great way to do so. Our photography studio is the perfect place for this because it’s designed to cater to both natural and studio light photographers.
We chose to open up a natural light photography studio in Dallas because most photographers in the area are natural light photographers. But, we also wanted to create a versatile space where photographers who prefer to control studio light can feel right at home. It’s been amazing seeing both natural and studio light photographers bring their visions to life in our studio. We wanted to learn more about how they use our space to get their desired results, so we asked both types of photographers a few questions, compiled their answers, and we’re here to share them with you.
How to control light / use aritfical light in our natural light studio?
Controlling studio/artificial light is all about understanding where to add and subtract light to create a specific look. The key to mastering the control of light lies in using light modifiers. These modifiers allow you to shape and direct light however you would like. Some examples of light modifiers include softboxes and umbrellas, which diffuse light to create a softer, more flattering look; on-camera flashes for quick, direct lighting; octaboxes that provide a broad, even light source; and scrims, which can diffuse or block light to reduce harsh shadows. Additionally, tools like v-flats are perfect for adding or subtracting light from a setup by reflecting or absorbing light as needed.
Photo taken by Monika Normand Creative
Our studio is also equipped with c-stands that are perfect for setting up backdrops and lights. Our V-flat is available for use and you can use it to add or cut light during your shoots. If you need to reduce the amount of natural light streaming into the studio, our floor-to-ceiling windows have light filtering blinds that can be adjusted to control the light coming into the space. Using the amenities and equipment available in our studio, you’ll be able to create amazing work utilizing studio lights.
If you’d like to start experimenting with studio lighting and you’re looking for equipment to use, check out our affiliate links for the Godox AD-200s (A great starter studio light) and the Godox parabolic softbox.
Photo taken by Monika Normand Creative
How to take the best natural light photos at our studio
Capturing the best natural light photos is about understanding how to work with the sunlight that pours in through our floor-to-ceiling windows. The time of day plays an important role in determining the quality and intensity of the light, so make sure you consider this when scheduling your shoot.
For a soft, flattering look, position your subject facing towards the light source. This will allow you to capture beautiful and even light that flatters your subject’s features. You can also experiment with different angles to capture unique, dramatic lighting effects as the sun moves throughout the day.
If you’d like to add more light or create a balanced fill, try using our v-flats to bounce light back onto your subject. You can also always adjust the amount of light coming in using the light-filtering blinds.
Photo taken by Monika Normand Creative
Understanding these techniques allows you to make the most of the natural light available in our studio and create stunning, high-quality photographs that highlight your subject in the best possible way. Whether you're aiming for the soft look from the early morning light or the dramatic lighting of the late afternoon, our studio provides the perfect environment to explore and capture the beauty of natural light photography.
Our natural light photography studio offers endless possibilities for both natural and studio light photographers. By understanding how to work with and manipulate light, you can create images that truly showcase your unique style and vision.
We can’t wait to continue to see the work that is created in our studio. If you have any questions about lighting options in the studio, please feel free to send us an email at info@brightsidestudiosdallas.com . If you’d like to reserve the space, head over here!