Rainy days in the Pacific Northwest lead to shooting photos indoors A LOT. Coffee shops and living rooms keep us dry and cozy in photos, but the lighting can be tricky! Read on for some easy tips and tricks get take better photos indoors!
How to Take Better Photos Indoors Tip #1: Find Your Light
When shooting indoors, always have your subject facing a source of natural light, such a window or open door, to instantly transform the quality of your photo. Is there is no natural light source where you are shooting, have the subject face a light colored wall and avoid lights that create harsh shadows.
How to Take Better Photos Indoors Tip #2: Wear Light Colored Clothing
Light colored clothing reflects light, while dark clothing absorbs it. Opt for whites and pastels when shooting indoors, and avoid black and other dark colors which will only lose detail and bring down the brightness of an image in low lighting.
How to Take Better Photos Indoors Tip #3: Use Fill Flash or a Light Bounce Reflector
If you have an adjustable flash or speedlight, bounce the the flash off of a wall, the ceiling, or a bounce card to create fill flash. Fill flash literally “fills” the dark areas of your photo without the harsh lighting created by direct flash.
You can also use a light bounce reflector to direct ambient light onto specific areas, but often requires a tripod or an assistant to hold it.
How to Take Better Photos Indoors Tip #4: Edit for the Lighting
Even if you aren’t able to find a natural source of light or use fill flash, pro editing on a poorly lit indoor photo can make a huge difference. Increasing exposure and contrast, bringing up shadows, and desaturating yellows will instantly transform a photo taken indoors from dark and flat to bright and dynamic.
If you struggle with editing, considering purchasing a preset that specifically edits for low light/indoor settings, like the Fashion Insider preset, part of the Karya Schanilec Photography x Emma’s Edition Instagrammer Preset Package.
Do you take photos inside often? Let me know if these tips help you in the comments!
Thanks for reading,
Karya
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Oh i love this post. Indoor photoshoots are always intimidating to me! I have definitely found a lot of success with wearing light colors and a making sure to find good light. I have an indoor maternity shoot coming up and I will try and implement some of these tips!
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I’m so glad I could help, good luck on your shoot!