Panicking over how to photograph in harsh light before your session?

We’ve found that photographing in harsh light is allllways photographers #1 concern when it comes to a 2 pm first look, or wide open midday session. So don’t worry – You’re not alone. And I used to panic, too!

First look at three in the afternoon? Forget about it. That used to send me into a complete and utter doom spiral–I needed golden hour or overcast skies to capture images that matched the work my clients booked me for. Are you in the same boat? 

Cut to today–I live for midday lighting. Give me all the harsh light you can, Mother Nature.

I’m bored at golden hour, and I look for any chance I can to introduce harsh light back into my client’s galleries. It’s time for you to do the same–you’ll be a better photographer because of it!

Here’s our top three tips for learning to shoot in Harsh Light..

1. Focus on keeping your subjects facial features in consistent lighting. Whether it’s direct light or backlight – (unintentionally) inconsistent lighting is what will make your photography look amateur immediately. This is one of the biggest mistakes we see photographers make!
2. Don’t be afraid to use a reflector! Photographers always scare away from reflectors thinking they’ll make the photos look cheesy- however there is so much versatility when it comes to this tool. Experiment with the different faces and sides to see what will match your photography style best!
3. Get artsy and uncomfortable! There is no better time to push yourself than when it comes to harsh light. This is an amazing opportunity to get a little uncomfortable and try more artsy posing and composition in order to make the most of the punch contrast that shooting in Harsh Light provides.

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Ready to learn more about how to shoot in harsh light? Snag our one of our best selling courses – the Harsh Light Masterclass – for only $99 instead of $555!

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photography: Eden Strader // venue name: Dos Pueblos Ranch, Santa Barbara, California, USA // event design: Wild Heart Events // planning: Wild Heart Events // florals: Wild Muse Floral // wedding dress: Immacle Novias // hairpiece: So De Mel for Accessories // hair stylist: Blushing Beauty // makeup artist: Blushing Beauty // videography: I Heart My Groom // tabletop rentals: Borrowed Blu // furniture rentals: Elan Event Rentals // specialty rentals: Bella Vista Designs // models: Hello Gorgeous