Lighting Techniques: Natural vs. Artificial Light Sources
When it comes to photography, lighting is everything. The way you light your subject can change the mood, style, and quality of a photo. As a photographer, one of the first things you learn is how to use light — both natural and artificial — to create the best image possible.
Let’s break down the difference between natural and artificial light, and how each one can help you take better photos.
What Is Natural Light?
Natural light comes from the sun. It’s the light you see during the day — in the morning, afternoon, or even cloudy days. This type of light is free, easy to use, and always available outdoors.
Pros of Natural Light:
It’s soft and flattering during “golden hour” (right after sunrise or before sunset).
It doesn’t require equipment.
It gives a natural and real look to your photos.
Cons of Natural Light:
It changes throughout the day.
Cloudy or rainy weather can affect your shoot.
It’s harder to control.
Tips for Using Natural Light:
Try shooting in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light.
Use windows when indoors to let sunlight in.
Avoid harsh midday sun — it can create strong shadows.
What Is Artificial Light?
Artificial light is any light that isn’t from the sun. It includes lamps, flash, LED lights, studio lights, and even your phone’s flashlight.
Pros of Artificial Light:
You can use it any time of day.
You can control how bright it is and where it shines.
It’s great for indoor shoots or when the weather is bad.
Cons of Artificial Light:
You might need special equipment like softboxes or stands.
It can look fake or too harsh if not used correctly.
It takes practice to learn how to control it well.
Tips for Using Artificial Light:
Use softboxes or umbrellas to make the light softer.
Start with one light and learn how it affects your subject.
Practice moving the light around to see different effects.
Which Is Better?
There’s no right or wrong answer. Natural and artificial light are both useful — it depends on what kind of photo you want to take.
Use natural light for quick, outdoor, or lifestyle shots. Go with artificial light when you need more control, or you’re working indoors or at night.
Great photographers often learn to use both. Sometimes, we even combine them for the perfect look!
Final Thoughts
Learning how to work with light takes time, but it’s one of the most important parts of photography. Whether you’re using the sun or a studio light, practice will help you understand what works best for your style. Grab your camera, experiment with both, and see what kind of magic you can create.
Perks, photography enthusiast
