Photography Lighting Techniques
Master natural and artificial lighting to create stunning iPhone photos. Learn to work with different light sources and conditions for professional-quality results.
Understanding Light
Natural Light
Sunlight provides the most flattering and accessible lighting for mobile photography. Learn to use different times of day and weather conditions.
Artificial Light
Indoor lighting, LED panels, and phone flashlights can create dramatic effects when used correctly. Master indoor photography techniques.
Light Direction
Front, side, and back lighting create completely different moods and effects. Learn when to use each approach.
Natural Light Mastery
Golden Hour Photography
Perfect Timing for Golden Light
Golden hour occurs during the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. This soft, warm light creates the most flattering photos with minimal shadows.
Morning Golden Hour
- Softer, cooler tones
- Less harsh shadows
- Perfect for portraits
- Misty atmosphere effects
Evening Golden Hour
- Warmer, richer tones
- Dramatic silhouettes
- Romantic atmosphere
- Long shadow effects
Overcast Day Advantages
Cloudy skies create natural diffusion, providing even, soft lighting perfect for portraits and close-up photography. Don't avoid shooting on overcast days!
Benefits of Overcast Lighting
- No harsh shadows on faces
- Even skin tone illumination
- Saturated colors
- Consistent exposure
Best Subjects for Overcast
- Portrait photography
- Macro and detail shots
- Forest and nature scenes
- Street photography
Indoor Lighting Techniques
Window Light Photography
Windows provide excellent natural light for indoor photography. Position your subject and camera correctly to take advantage of this free, beautiful light source.
Direct Window Light
Subject facing window creates bright, even illumination
Side Window Light
Creates dramatic contrast and dimensional lighting
Curtain Diffusion
Sheer curtains soften harsh direct sunlight
Artificial Light Sources
LED and Lamp Lighting
Desk lamps, floor lamps, and LED panels can create interesting mood lighting for creative photography.
- Position lights at 45-degree angles
- Use white lampshades for diffusion
- Avoid mixing different light temperatures
Phone Flash Techniques
While often harsh, your iPhone flash can be useful when modified or used as fill light.
- Use tissue paper to diffuse flash
- Bounce flash off white walls/ceilings
- Combine with ambient light