Improving Your Photo Skills: Photographing Outdoors

Dealing with the sun.

It is bright, large and can burn you!

So you are out with your kids and you want to take a photo of your precious ones. It is wise to look at the the sky to know what kind of light the sun is making.

The worst light is when there are no clouds and it is around noon (11am-2pm) . This is when the sun is at it's brightest, which makes us squint and creates dark shadows.

Here are two options:

Shade

If it is possible take the kids into any shaded area (ie: under a tree, under a picnic table, in a tent or shaded picnic area). Shade makes light more even- less squinting and the shadows aren't too dark.

Also consider the background. If the background is in direct sunlight it could blow out (which could be cool) or maybe you want to see the environment clearly. It is your call. Keep a look out for little spots of light that may be cutting through the leaves. They may add interest or create distraction. You can create shade by having your subject just turn so their back is to the sun.

Angelic Backlighing
If you dare to experiment, put your child between you and the sun. This may mean you lay or sit on the ground, (since sometimes they aren't tall). Arrange your composition so that your child's head is completely blocking the sun. It will make a angelic halo effect. Usually, early in the morning or later in the evening, is best for this type of picture.

(if your camera has automatic settings it may not allow you to do this one properly.)