Natural Light Photo Session with Krysten & Diajuan
There's something undeniably magical about natural light photography. It's a constant dance with the sun, chasing those perfect pockets of light or filtering soft light through leafy greens. A couple weeks ago, I had the pleasure of venturing out on a Walk with Ray meet up with the Harford County Photography Group. My good friend and photographer Wendy Miller coordinated with Krysten and Diajuan to be our models for the day. We had the chance to explore the beauty of Liriodendron Mansion, located in Harford, County Maryland.
Natural light photography is a constant adventure, sometimes planned, sometimes a happy accident. Ideally, every outdoor shoot would be early morning before the sun gets too high or that lovely golden hour before sunset. This photo walk embraced a different kind of challenge – mid-morning harsh light. It wasn't the golden hour glow we usually dream of, but hey, photographers gotta adapt in any situation, right?
Facing the Mid-Morning Monster
Let's be honest, mid-morning sun can be a beast. Harsh shadows, washed-out colors – not exactly the recipe for stunning portraits. But therein lies the beauty of the craft: learning to work with what you've got.
Finding Light in the Unexpected
Despite the initial hurdle, Krysten, with her radiant smile and playful spirit, and Diajuan, with his cool composure, brought their A-game. We started by seeking out pockets of refuge – dappled light filtering through trees, shade cast by buildings – anything to soften the harshness. It became a treasure hunt, searching for those perfect patches of light that would enhance their features.
Beyond Technique, There's Connection
The lesson here goes beyond technicalities. While mastering light is crucial, natural light photography shines brightest when it captures real connections. As we explored, we captured candid moments – Krysten's infectious laughter, Diajuan's thoughtful gaze – that showcased their best features, proving that even under less-than-ideal conditions, the essence of a scene can still be beautifully portrayed.
Embrace the Challenge, Seek the Light
This photo walk became a testament to adaptability. We learned to embrace the challenge and work with the available light, proving that even harsh mid-morning sun can be tamed. So, the next time you find yourself facing less-than-perfect lighting, take it as an opportunity to explore, experiment, and discover the hidden beauty within the light itself.
At the end of the session, we had the opportunity to explore inside the mansion to take a break from the cold and let our models warm up.
Calling All Natural Light Adventurers!
Natural light photography is full of surprises. Grab a friend, head out, and see what kind of magic you can create, even in the midday sun. Remember, the best photos often come from unexpected moments and a willingness to adapt. Share your adventures with me on social media, and let's keep the learning (and inspiration) flowing!
A Collaborative Experience
This photo walk wasn't just about capturing beautiful images of Krysten and Diajuan; it was a collaborative experience. We explored different angles, bounced ideas off each other, attempted to bounce light off of reflectors — battling against the wind, and ultimately created a collection of photos that reflected both their personalities and the magic natural light photography.
If you're a photographer who thrives on natural light, I highly recommend grabbing a friend or two and heading out to explore your local area. You never know what hidden gems you might find bathed in the most beautiful light. Remember, the best photos are often the ones that capture the essence of a moment, a connection, or a feeling. So, get out there, chase the light, and have fun!