Natural light vs artificial light: when and how to use each
Jun 21, 2025
Lighting is the heartbeat of photography. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or product photography, understanding the nuances of light can make the difference between an ordinary image and a masterpiece. One of the most important decisions a photographer makes is whether to use natural or artificial light. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, and knowing when and how to use each can elevate your photography to the next level.
What Is natural light?
Natural light comes from the sun, whether it's direct sunlight, overcast skies, or diffused window light. It’s constantly changing throughout the day and influenced by weather, time, and location.
What Is artificial light?
Artificial light includes any man-made light source: flashes, strobes, continuous lights, LED panels, or even household bulbs. These can be controlled and manipulated for consistency and creative effects.
When to use artificial light
Low-Light Conditions: Night events, indoor spaces, or any time when natural light is insufficient.
Studio Work: When precision and repeatability are essential, like product or commercial shoots.
Creative Effects: Gels, colored lights, and lighting modifiers can create dramatic or artistic effects that aren’t possible with natural light.
Fill Light or Flash: When you need to balance exposure, especially in backlit situations or harsh sunlight.
Final Thought
There’s no single “right” type of light. The key is understanding the qualities of both natural and artificial light and choosing the best one based on your subject, environment, and creative vision. Practice shooting in different lighting conditions, study the light in your everyday surroundings, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The more you work with light, the more intuitive and powerful your photography becomes.
Erin Lewis
Let's bring your vision to life.