Last Updated on November 30, 2022 by studiob2
One of the most important elements of photography is lighting. One of the biggest struggles amateur photographers have? Lighting. Let’s face it. Light is essential to bringing images to life! So, ambient natural lighting vs. artificial lighting – which is better for photography? Let’s take a look.
What Exactly Is Lighting So Important to Photography?
You know the subjects need lighting to be visible in your photos, but what else is there to lighting? What about aesthetic appeal and final photos that look polished and professional? It’s proper lighting that brings all of that together.
What Is Ambient Natural Light?
Ambient natural light refers simply to sunlight. While it can also refer to moonlight, it’s a bit more difficult to take pictures with the moon as your only source of light.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Ambient Natural Light in Photography?
One of the biggest advantages of ambient natural light is it’s free! You might also find it convenient because it means you have no additional equipment or bags to carry.
On the flip side, weather can be incredibly unpredictable. If you have an outdoor photoshoot scheduled on a day that turns out rainy or overcast, you might wish you had artificial light. Ambient natural light usually isn’t the best option for indoor photography either.
What Is Artificial Lighting?
This term is used for any source of lighting that is not natural. This can include but is not limited to softboxes, flashes, lamps, or bulbs.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Artificial Lighting in Photography?
Photographers can and have taken incredible shots outdoors, but artificial lighting gives you customization abilities that natural ambient lighting often does not. Artificial lighting also offers consistency and creative control.
One of the disadvantages of artificial lighting is the expense. It can get costly. You have to factor in not only the cost of additional lighting but a hike in your power bill. You also have to carry around bags and lighting equipment that can get heavy.
So, Ambient Natural Lighting vs. Artificial Lighting in Photography: Which Is Better?
It’s impossible to choose one over the other. It’s a matter of your needs and personal preferences. When choosing ambient natural lighting vs. artificial lighting, you need to evaluate each project carefully and then decide from there which will work best. You might find you need both!
Let the Creative Photographers at Studio B2 Bring Your Ideas to Light With the Right Lighting!
Are you a model who needs stunning headshots? A real estate agent with a new listing to advertise? A landscaper who wants to showcase your work? No matter your needs, our experts have the talent and skills you need! Contact us at 954-854-6148 today!
