What if just one small change could completely change how you take photos in bright sun? Well, it can, and it’s really so simple!

Taking Photos in Bright Sunlight

Harsh sunlight is bad – very bad! It makes us have raccoon eyes. It makes wrinkles more prominent. It makes the subject have squinty eyes. No one wants that! We all want softer skin and to look incredible in photos! But, you don’t have to wait until “Golden Hour” to look your best! One simple trick when taking photos is bright sunlight is this: Face your shadow! Yes! You heard me! Turn around. Find your shadow and the image will look a million times better! It may not be as soft as complete shade or softer golden hour light, but it will do nicely!

If your subject’s face looks a little dark or flat when facing their shadow, you can always move them towards something light and bright that will reflect secondary light back in their face, such as a sidewalk, white vehicle, reflector, or even a white poster board! You can see me explain it all on this video.

So, that’s it – I can’t take the credit though! I learned that game changing tip from the incredible wedding photographer Katelyn James, who also educates photographers.

Here’s a couple of iPhone picture examples, so the quality isn’t all that great – but you can see the difference when I faced my shadow! Now, taking photos in bright sunlight doesn’t have to be so scary!

Before Image (Facing the Sun)  | Shot with an iPhone 6

After Image (Facing my shadow) | Shot with an iPhone 6

Hope you enjoyed the photo tip! You can follow me on Instagram to keep up with the latest, or contact me to book a free discovery call to see how personal brand photography can elevate your brand and increase your profits!

If you liked these tips, you may also like my photo apps recommendations!