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The Amazing Daylight

Light is without any doubt the most important ‘ingredient’ for a photographer. In order to become a good photographer it is absolutely essential that one must study the way different light changes everyday scenes and objects and become an expert in spotting the light conditions that will produce interesting images. That’s because the ‘right’ light can transform an ordinary image into something that is truly atmospheric and magical.

I have read many books on using the light. However I have found out that even though they helped me to appreciate the subject, the best way to understand light is to go out and experiment yourself by shooting lots of images in different light conditions. That means not only at different hours of the day or in different weather but also at different times of the year. Light changes constantly and there is so much to discover.

Some photographers will only use certain hours of the day to shoot their images – e.g. most landscape photographers shoot either in the early hours of the morning or late in the evening as the light is very soft and flattering and creates a nice 3-D effect. However, even though you can produce some beautiful images, they can be a bit predictable. It is always good to remember that rules can be broken and it is worth experimenting with the stronger daylight, as well. I have for example found out that if you choose to shoot a wintry landscape, you can produce some stunning images using the strong wintry sunshine, especially if there is a blue sky present, as well. The deep contrasts between the pure white snow and a deep blue sky can only be achieved during the day. It is however worth noting that the wintry sun is nowhere near the same strength as the sunshine that we get in summer because in winter the sun sits much lower in the sky. Lots of photographers avoid the strong sunshine but it can have its own use if you for example want to create a graphic image with a strong contrast between the light and shadows.

However, I will almost always avoid using a strong daylight if shooting portraits or flowers. I have achieved much better results with a light that is diffused (by clouds or in a shade) because a diffused light doesn’t create ugly shadows and strong contrasts in your subject. Instead it makes the subject evenly lit and emphasizes colours and textures. It also creates a subtle glow that I find really beautiful because it brings the subject to life.

There is only one way to make ones images better and stronger – Start discovering the way the light on our amazing planet Earth transforms the life around us. My advice to anyone who is not afraid to experiment with different types of light would be - Shoot the same subject at different time of the day and at different time of the year and carefully study your results. Soon, knowing when to spot the ‘right’ light condition that will help you to produce the desired photographic result, will become a second nature to you.