Natural light is usually a very hard light on a person and not very flattering. Contrary to popular belief, a cloudy day is typically preferred by a photographer over a bright day. If your photographer has you facing the sun, in addition to the very unflattering light, you’ll likely be squinting. If it’s a hot day, that can cause you to sweat too, or shiver if it’s a cold day. Regardless of whether you opt for natural light or studio light, there are obstacles like these to overcome. So, can headshots be taken outside? Let’s take a closer look.
Natural Light Advantages and Disadvantages
You might be considering your options being in the market for mobile headshots in Los Angeles or just shopping around for Los Angeles headshots. Thus, you’re trying to decide where and how to take headshots. There are more disadvantages to using natural light than there are advantages. One advantage is that it is low cost. The sun is free to use. But, as with most things that are free, they’re usually not the best option. If a photographer knows what they’re doing, they can make great photos for you using natural light. Also, if you’re doing lifestyle photos, natural light is a great option. There are also great locations for a good backdrop, such as cityscapes in Glendale, CA, or local parks for greenery, and more.
That natural light / or the direct sun is a hard light has already been mentioned. It does not flatter a person to have the harsh sun directly on their faces. Another disadvantage is the sun is constantly moving. So, a photographer must adapt to the changing light. One might think high noon is a good time to go so there is plenty of light. But, to a photographer, this is as bad as the sun can get. The best light is roughly an hour before sunset. Thus, time is limited. A common step taken to avoid the harsh sun on the skin is to shoot in the shade. But that goes against using the sun, which is what most people are expecting when they ask, can headshots be taken outside.
Studio Lighting Advantages and Disadvantages
Studio lights are expensive, especially high-quality lights. Each one can cost several thousands of dollars. Then there are all the modifiers to use with them that add to the costs. In addition, you can’t just throw up a light, aim it, and click – contrary to how simple some people think studio photography is. It takes a keen understanding of studio lighting and camera equipment to properly light and expose a subject. So, in addition to the expense, it can be too technical for many people.
But studio lighting offers a studio photographer the one thing they want when they set out to start a studio – complete control. With studio lighting, a photographer can shape and position the light to great effect. If you want to go from a beauty look to a commercial look to a dramatic look, that is conveniently possible without chasing the sun. Studio light modifiers also help the photographer control how dramatically hard they want the light to be to how immensely soft they want the light to be.