Finding light without flash

These are some photos I took recently using only natural light. This is also referred to as “available light” and the idea is to place your subject next to a window or open door which utilizes the soft light from outside.

“Why would I do this?” you may wonder. “Why can’t I just use the flash on my camera?” Because once you pop up the flash on your camera you’ve ruined the atmosphere. The whole mood has been destroyed by a bluish-white light washing over everything and everyone.

These photos were taken with a digital SLR, but most digital point-and-shoot cameras are capable of taking great photos with available light. You will need to start by turning off the flash on your camera. This will force your camera to choose a different shutter speed and/or ISO (similar to film speed) to compensate.

If you look closely at Ling Ling’s eyes, you can actually see the shape of the window she is sitting next to which brings me to my next point. Professional photographer’s have all kinds of ways to recreate this soft light without actually being next to a window. There are things like soft boxes and umbrellas, but when you are working in someone’s home, it makes sense to use what mother nature provides.