If you’re not a professional photographer or videographer you probably don’t have professional lights which mean you’ll need to be a little more creative to get the look you want in your photos and videos. I’m going to show you the best way to film using light from a window.
NOTE: These tips will work no matter what kind of camera you use. iPhone, Smartphone, tablet, handycam, or semi-pro camcorder.
I’ve often seen videos pointing at the person talking with a window directly behind them. This makes the subject (the person) dark and the window too bright, so unless you’re going for the mystery man look, I’ll show you a better way.
First of all, when approaching a photo or video shoot always think of where the light is coming from first. Without light there is no photography. Even the word photography comes from the Greek word for light. So look at your surroundings and see where the light is coming in. Today I’m going to use inside as an example and use a window as my light source. I want the light to shine on my face, so I’m going to make sure to position myself near the window with my face angled slightly toward to light. For a more dramatic look I can turn parallel to my light source. But for your every day business photo or video you’ll want a more evenly lit face. Place your camera pointing toward you and away from the window. If at all possible, turn off your overhead lights, they can throw some funky shadows on your face. Make any minor adjustments you need for posing yourself, framing your shot, or setting your background.
Additional suggestions:
- If your face is still too dark try coming closer to the window.
- If the sun is shining directly in the window it can be too much light, try hanging a piece of tissue paper or a light sheet over the window to diffuse the light.
Most of all remember to have fun with it. The rules of photography are merely strong suggestions, but if you want to get creative, feel free to break all the rules.
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DIY Media Girl educates small business owners on taking better videos and photos. These are simple techniques you can use with the equipment you already own. If you have a question or a topic you want me to cover, send me a message or write a comment below.
When your budget doesn’t allow you to hire a pro, follow my tips to make your image glow. -DIY Media Girl