So often these days, I hear of other photographers are claiming that they only use “natural light” when photographing their subjects. Natural light can certainly be a beautiful source of light, but there almost always comes a time when a fill flash or another light source are necessary to making stunning images. Great photographers should have the knowledge of how to create the best images possible with all different types of light, whether it be an on-camera flash or a multi-light set-up, and not just working with the sun. Lighting a set-up can be tricky and technical and yes, it actually takes some time to figure out what you are doing, but you are a better photographer for learning it. Getting comfortable with lighting only allows you more flexibility of where and when you can shoot. And it only makes you better at your craft!
The images below were taken the other night about 10 minutes after the sun went down. The capture for both images are the same: 1/60 at 5.6 at 500ISO. The first image had a fill flash fire and the second image was shot, with “natural light” Which one do you think your client’s will want?
Such a beautiful sunset and model! Great situation for fill, and a great balance between natural and ambient. I would love to have seen a grid spot used on the speedlight to keep the light/attention on the model, or crop at the waterline. The highlights in the sand are pulling my attention away from this lovely young lady. It might also be overcome by letting the water roll in a little more, so it could pick up more of that beautiful reflected sunset. Beautiful capture.