A window makes a large, soft light source that flatters faces, products and still life. Place your subject near the window, turn them so the light falls across the face, and use a white card or sheet to fill in shadows. No special gear is needed, only a window and a little planning.
Choose the Right Window
Not all windows give the same light. The direction and the weather change the mood.
- North-facing windows (in the northern hemisphere) give steady, soft light through the day
- Sunny windows give strong, hard patches; soften them with a thin white curtain or sheet
- Overcast days make the most even and gentle results
- Large windows give softer light than small ones
Turn off room lights so colors do not mix. Mixed light can create odd color casts.
Place the Subject
- Stand the subject about one meter (three feet) from the window, and turn them about 45 degrees toward it.
- Check that light falls on the near cheek and makes a small triangle of light on the far cheek, if you want a classic look.
- Stand with the window to your side, so the light crosses the scene.
- Move the subject closer for stronger light and deeper shadows, or farther for softer, flatter light.
- Ask the person to look slightly toward the window to add sparkle to the eyes.
Fill the Shadows
The side away from the window will be darker. Bounce light back with a reflector.
- A white foam board, poster board or bed sheet works well
- Hold it opposite the window, just out of the frame
- Tilt it until the shadow side lifts, then check the screen
- Use a dark card on the shadow side if you prefer a moodier look
Settings to Try
| Situation | Aperture | Shutter | ISO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bright window, daytime | f/2.8 to f/4 | 1/125 to 1/250 | 200 to 800 |
| Overcast, dimmer room | f/2 to f/2.8 | 1/125 | 800 to 1600 |
| Still life on a table | f/5.6 to f/8 | 1/60 or slower, with support | 100 to 400 |
These are general ranges, so adjust to your light. Use exposure compensation of about +0.3 to +1 if faces look dull, and check the histogram.
FAQ
Why do my photos look blue or orange?
Light from the window, bulbs and lamps have different colors. Switch off lamps and set white balance to daylight or cloudy, or shoot raw and correct it later.
What if the background outside is too bright?
Turn the subject so the window is at the side, not behind them, or use a wall behind the subject. With the window behind, expose for the face and accept that the window will be bright.
The Short Version
Use one big window, turn the subject toward it and reflect light into the shadows with a white card. Turn off other lamps and watch the histogram for even, natural results.
