How do you overcome the problem of direct sunlight when clicking pictures

jpk0007 Level 1

October 17, 2018, 4:36 am

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How do you overcome the problem of direct sunlight when clicking pictures

Taking pictures in direct sunlight can is always relatively challenging excercise. harsh sunlight can sometimes cast unwanted shadows and create a big problem when clicking pictures. moreover the people who are being clicked are clicked may make faces if they are directly facing the sun. what sort of other techniques can be used to take good pictures even in direct sunlight besides adjusting the settings of our camera

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TheArticulate

TheArticulate

I love natural light photography, so dealing with the sun is a factor in nearly every photoshoot that I do. Here are the tips I have for you:

1. Plan your photoshoot for "Golden Hour"
Golden hour happens twice a day: just after sunrise and just before sunset. This is the time of day when the sun is in a position of rising or setting that it casts a softer golden light as opposed to the harsh light of midday. If you have any say in the scheduling of your photoshoot, schedule it for when the light isn't so harsh.

Believe me, if you haven't already taken advantage of Golden Hour for photography, you'll be blown away by the photos you get when you finally do.

2. Use available shade
I don't care what your reasoning is, just don't shoot in harsh, direct sunlight. Your model won't appreciate it, and your photos are going to be overexposed/washed out/unusable. I would assume that wherever you're shooting, you should have access to shade of some sort (unless you're shooting in an open field, in which case I urge you to reread Tip #1 above). Find a tree, a building, or some other structure that will give your subject somewhere to hide from the harsh light, and allow you to better position yourself accordingly for a good photo.

3. Position the sun behind your subject
Whenever you can, make the sun work for you. Putting it behind your subject will act like a backlight and create a glow around their head, helping to separate them from their background. Of course, when you do this, be sure to avoid getting the sun in the frame of the photo (unless you can position it so you get a nice sun flare), otherwise it could still wreak havoc on your photos.

6 years ago

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vinaya

vinaya

Great tips. I would like to add few more points.
try to avoid taking photos in the mid day when the sun is very bright. If you have to take photos in the glaring sun, try to find shade. If the sun is behind your subject, your subject might look back due to the excessive backlight, in that case you can use flash.

6 years ago

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TheArticulate

TheArticulate

Using the position of the sun to your advantage can be a trial-by-error task. What you're referring to is a silhouette, when the figure is nothing more than a black shadow. This happens when you put the sun directly behind your subject. It's a really neat effect if that's what you're going for, but if not, it can be a real pain.

It is possible to place the sun behind your subject, but not in a manner to get a silhouette. Just make sure you're positioning your model to either side, or beneath the sun, but have it to their back.

6 years ago

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vinaya

vinaya

Thanks for the inputs. I am not a professional photographer, however, I take interest in photography. When the sun is glaring, it is very difficult to take pictures. The right approach is positioning the subject properly. You can use reflectors or flash to get better shots.

6 years ago

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edencaga

edencaga

Thanks for this helpful tips. Actually this has been also my problem about direct sunlight. It's hard for me to see the screen of camera when I take pictures as it looks darker when you try to review the pictures you have taken because of the sunlight so I can't really fix my settings.

6 years ago

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HappyLady

HappyLady

These are great tips. I have often wondered why some photos work and others do not. I knew about having the sun behind, but not any of the rest. Thank you.

6 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Such great tips. I am sure that I will apply these when I take pictures and when I have the same problem. Thank you.

6 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

If I’m specifically planning to take photographs of a certain location or of people, I try to avoid peak sunlight hours. However sometimes that just can’t be avoided - you might have a really sunny day or a particular window of hours to work with where the sun is at its brightest.

Trying different angles and positions is about the only thing I’ve been able to do to tackle the problem but I’m curious to hear other people’s thoughts.

6 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

positioning as always is the best option to beat the sun in photography. There are times when you can use the sun to your advantage since you need the excess light it offers but you have to be at a location or room which is designed to reflect it well.

6 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

Yes, sometimes sun flares in photography help to give it that dreamy, whimsical effect - and it can be really beautiful depending on what you're photographing and your particular style. Sometimes you've just gotta take advantage of it, I guess, rather than fighting against it!

6 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

I agree . This is what actually makes great photographers have a difference from the average joes. They have a creative way of manouvering every problem and turn it into their advantage. I know this great photographer who enjoys taking pictures when the sun is shining its brightest and my God the pictures he takes are a wonder.

6 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

Absolutely. I think it's a good lesson in life that sometimes you just have to go with the flow. Here's an example of some wedding photography (not mine, but a good example) where the sun made it gorgeous. I think it adds a level of warmth that ends up being really special.

How do you overcome the problem of direct sunlight when clicking pictures

6 years ago

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mdayrit

mdayrit

That really looks good. Professional photographers really have a creative eye that can see angles to make everything look good on photo.

6 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

Wow. Exactly the type of creativity that I was talking about. Talk about someone using the sun to make the photo appear even better and having the best of memories.

6 years ago

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mirodge

mirodge

Must salute to the photographer of this picture, really did a great job. Imagine that the couple in this picture were like in the fantasy world. The sun rays were flared in the right position, it's like protecting and binding them as together as one.

6 years ago

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emiaj55

emiaj55

I wonder if this was taken naturally or in some way or another digitally retouched. I can't help but notice that there is a noticeable oval-ish area that circles around the couple. I think it is pretty much impossible to take in a natural setting since the sun's glorious rays are overpowering in the background. But if any way this is done naturally without any digital editing made, then this is really a very awesome shot. I would very much like to learn how he did it.

6 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

If you can't find a decent angle and you really need to take a shot in direct sunlight try using a cover or an umbrella, it might work.

6 years ago

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mitan143

mitan143

Yeah, that's what on my mind too. They should try a protector against the sunlight. And umbrella is the closest available for non-professional photographers. Or else just edit the image using photoshop or any helpful tools.

6 years ago

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mdayrit

mdayrit

Changing the angle when taking photos can help. One rule that I follow is to always not face the camera to the sunlight. It tends to darken the subject. Always make your subject be the one to face the light. Not a professional photographer here but that's what I do in taking personal photos.

6 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

That's exactly what is required to achieve a very clear and pictures that aren't blur. Always try to avoid the light from reflecting directly into the camera lens. This is the only way to prevent the pictures from getting ruined damaged by too much exposure to sunlight.

6 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

One trick is by using your flash to counter the effect of direct sunlight. It also minimizes shadows. I learned that in a photo class some years back. It works best if you're equipped with a powerful flash.

6 years ago

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ajahcuizon

ajahcuizon

Haven't heard this before but I think it's a good trick. Thanks for this tip. I'll definitely gonna try this also. Good for you that you have been able to go to a photo class, hoping that someday I could also get a chance to study on how to take good photos.

6 years ago

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TheArticulate

TheArticulate

A fill flash can be useful in getting rid of unwanted shadows, but I don't know that I'd recommend using one in direct sunlight. If that's all you had, then go for it (especially if you have a nice Canon Speedlite or something that allows you to change the intensity of your flash), but I think using a reflector would be a much better solution.

Using a reflector to bounce the sunlight back onto the subject will light them more naturally than a flash, and it'll be a softer light. Not to mention your model will probably appreciate it more than using a flash on them!

6 years ago

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stbrians

stbrians

You can shield the camera with an umbrella. I have no solution to the people making faces. May be it will add spice to the image. PR what do you think?

6 years ago

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Judas2018

Judas2018

Try and find an angle where sunlight or glare isn't a problem? If not, find another spot to take the picture. There are also times where you can wait for a few moments until a cloud or two passes in front of the sun. That blocks it enough for you to quickly snap the photo you're trying to take.

6 years ago

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ajahcuizon

ajahcuizon

Try not to be on the "against the light" position. On that way, you can still get that good shot even jnder the sun. Another thing, choose the right time of the day to take some photos, like when it is almost dawn, the sun is still up but not that high as the sun in the afternoon. It can still give you a natural lighting from the sun. Also, for the shadow problem, try finding a different view from your subject to get a good shot.

6 years ago

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jeffreyjose48

jeffreyjose48

I agree with you. Don't be in a position that you are against the light. In that way you can still get good pictures.

6 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

When you position yourself against the light the photos can get ruined. This is unless you are really great and knows how to position yourself to take advantage of the rays.

6 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Yes, I agree with you. Well, some could be creative with poses that are against the light and can still produce a great picture. But, most of the time, people can't achieve great results with this technique, so better avoid it and face the light so the subject could be properly illuminated.

6 years ago

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beerthooyah

beerthooyah

If utilized properly, direct sunlight could enhance the aesthetics of the photo taken. There are some techniques that can be used to maximize the effects of direct sunlight. Taking photos in direct sunlight is better when taking pictures in silhouetes and wide angle photos. We could also use to reflect the light from the sun as an altetnative to fill flash to enhance clear images.

6 years ago

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anyone01

anyone01

Your problem isn’t possible however transferring around it could supply a distinct effect. This is probably transferring to the alternative side of the item, shooting from without delay above or even getting down low and doping up. Doing so will exchange the attitude of the solar hitting each your difficulty and the camera and give your picture a completely exceptional experience.

6 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

I agree with you. Changing where you take your picture from will change and fix everything.

6 years ago

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NerdIndeed

NerdIndeed

I am no expert photographer, but I would advise you to go wide when taking photos instead of close-ups. Do not take photographs of your subjects up-close under direct sunlight. That's all I know, haha!

6 years ago

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superlicca

superlicca

You just have to change the angle or your position. If you cannot move the subject, maybe you could move so that you can take better photos. If you change your position means changing the angle. The other option is to use the lens hood. Some of the expensive cameras available now come with a lens hood. You can use it to cut down lens flare.

6 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

Adjustments of the camera settings is not going to be of any help when sunlight interfere with the lens for the capturing.

The only best thing to do would be to look for another angle where the lens would be prevented from having a direct contact with the sun.

You can use an overhead umbrella to give shadow and then take the pictures.

6 years ago

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MomoStarr16

MomoStarr16

Simply avoid the sunlight. Be the one to adjust where the light can't be a hindrance. Positioning is the key to avoid that problem.

6 years ago

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jpk0007

jpk0007

Got some very useful tips from some of you guys when I read your answers here. taking pictures in sunlight has always been a big problem. The only thing that I usually do while taking pictures in sunlight is that I always try to avoid taking close-ups of people. If you use a somewhat wide angle then you will be able to get some nice pics. But close-ups in sunlight have never worked for me till now.

6 years ago

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esteban123

esteban123

For me to avoid the direct sunlight when taking pictures is that I am setting a time frame for that. I usually have to take some pictures early in the morning or in the afternoon at around past 3:00 pm to ensure the quality of the photos that I am making. It is important too have a good strategy in taking photos so that we can achieve the desired results that we want to achieve, We must have only the patience to do that since without it would be very hard for us to have a good shot.

6 years ago

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EfficientNinja

EfficientNinja

I am no professional photographer but one thing I've learned from parents and people who take photos a lot is to not take a picture of someone that is against the light. If the light is on the background, it will almost always make your subject a silhouette because your camera's lens can't see the subject well.

6 years ago

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jayjaydimson

jayjaydimson

I just covered my phone camera with my hand so that the light won't reflect my phone camera to have a clearer picture.

6 years ago

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esteban123

esteban123

I am not also a professional photographer but the only thing that I can advice is that we should avoid having a direct contact with the sunlight so that our photos would not be over thrown by the sunlight since it can destroy the beauty of the photos that we will be capturing. We must be cautious about it if possible to have a great photos.

6 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

You can try using a filter to make the photo more natural or you can also try using the lens hood to minimize the glare of the sun. But I do think that the best way is to find a shade and take your photos from there.

6 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

I think that the time for quitting has heard. There may be a lot of lucjtie and many comments are styreaming insoth all kinsa p

6 years ago

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rlpzbeermoney

rlpzbeermoney

Another tip is to use an ND filter. It's quite expensive but worth it if you're primary profession is photography. It lets you take normal exposure shots in bright situations in like a sunny day.

6 years ago

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DISTEFANO115

DISTEFANO115

Take a picture of the model when the sun is about to rise or when it's sunset, that way it's way easier to manipulate compared when the sun is in the middle. You could use shadows from objects like trees, buildings, etc... to create contrast.

6 years ago

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MomoStarr16

MomoStarr16

All you need to do is master the art of positioning. You know it is all about the position of your lens to the subject. But there are times that you can't do anything to sunlight, what you can do is be creative to make a photo with the sunlight that will look great.

6 years ago

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mosesoscar

mosesoscar

One thing has always worked for me, and that is to let the individual I'm snapping be the one facing the sun. In this way the sun reveals more of the individual for my camera to capture, and it also keep my camera from having the effects of direct sunlight on its lenses

6 years ago

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agbuyarashel

agbuyarashel

Actually, sunlight is a good source of natural light that you could take advantage of.

You just have to develop a technique like putting some adjustment of exposure, brightness and such to decrease too much light from the sun.

6 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Try taking photos a few hours after sunrise and a few hours before sunset. In that way you won't have any problems with direct sunlight.

6 years ago

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emiaj55

emiaj55

I happened to catch the most untimely hours to take a photo shoot outdoors. And like you, I had the same problem. What we did is really out of improvisation: We took very large off-white blankets to throw off some glare of the sun. At one point we improvised a shade. Since it is off white, it didn't change much the shade of sunlight that I was going for.

But again, I do not really recommend it. Always practice the tips shared in the earlier post. We did what we did because we were on a deadline. Besides it is too much work.

6 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

Wow, that's an interesting improvisation. But, I think, if I were to do it, I won't succeed.

6 years ago

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emiaj55

emiaj55

Well I wouldn't really recommend it. It is too much work. Besides you can't really do it alone, you need to have at least two more companions to hold the sheets properly. But I think it turned out well for us, the whole team was there with me.

6 years ago

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