Light is arguably the most important factor in a great photograph,
and great light can be hard to find when you have to stay inside.
Today I’m sharing with you how I manage to find great light and ideal places to take photos when we can’t go outside!
#1 Master Bedroom
Any window is a good window for light.
I love the light that comes through my bedroom window because it illuminates my bedspread, which happens to make a great backdrop. The light from this window makes the whole room light and bright. Perfect for photography.
Doesn’t the bedspread make a great backdrop?
#2 Foyer
I LOVE taking pictures in my foyer. Wouldja just look at all the light coming through those windows? Not only is the lighting great, but we have a mirror that is great for reflection shots!
I LOVE taking pictures in my foyer. Wouldja just look at all the light coming through those windows? Not only is the lighting great, but we have a mirror that is great for reflection shots!
This picture is one of my faves…It’s so “us.” 🙂
This child put on her flower headband and climbed up on the bench all by herself. It was as if she knew exactly what to do for me to take some adorable pictures of her…and look at that light!
#3 Sliding Doors
The sliding doors in the back of our house are where I take all of my “project shots”.
Like this:
Or this:
To get these great photos of my projects, I lay out a large piece of white paper on the ground by the window, open up my aperture nice and wide, and shoot!
Where do you take your best indoor photos?
I’m linking up at: Tatertots & Jello, Give Me the Goods Monday
Becky M says
Awesome post – Loved this and so helpful!
agirlandhersparkles.blogspot.com
April Hoff says
I’m so glad, Becky! Thanks for the sweet comment! 🙂
Chaney @ May Richer Fuller Be says
Love this post! We’ve got two spots in our tiny apartment that I use for photography: sliding doors (just like yours!) in the living room area across from a big window in the bedroom. Time of day really makes a huge difference for me too. Mid-morning to early afternoon is when I get the best light – at least in the dreary wintertime :). I’m still trying to figure out how to photograph rooms with no natural light (i.e. our bathroom). If you have any tips on that, I’d love to hear!
April Hoff says
Agreed! Morning or afternoon work best for me! I’m lucky to have a really well-lit home. So many windows…. 🙂
April Hoff says
Sorry, Chaney…just remembered it was a two part comment. Ok, for low-light areas, I turn up the ISO to take advantage of the natural light I have. IF I HAVE TO I’ll turn on a lamp or ceiling light. I never use my flash. Just won’t do it… 🙂 Hope this helps!
Carol says
Thanks for this! My pictures definately need some improvement. My projects are so cute, my pictures, not so much!
April Hoff says
It’s a process, Carol…I’m still evolving myself! 🙂
Jen Migonis says
great tips, april!!!! 🙂
April Hoff says
Thanks, Jen! 🙂
Krista thehappyhousie says
Great tips April, I have so much to learn in this area- pinning!
April Hoff says
Saweeeet! Thanks, Krista! 🙂
Sarah S says
Great ideas – thank you!
April Hoff says
Glad you found it helpful, Sarah! 🙂
Carrie @ lovely etc. says
Great tips! I feel like I am always struggling to take good pics in my house because there just isn’t a ton of natural light. You’ve inspired me to take a fresh look around and consider some new possibilities.
April Hoff says
I’m so glad this helped, Carrie! 🙂
Carrie from Carrie This Home says
Great tips! I love how you showed the place then showed actual photos you took in those places. I have a hard time thinking of good backdrops so I appreciate the suggestions!
April Hoff says
Thanks, Carrie! 🙂 I’m glad you found this helpful!
Mandy Hank says
Oh my goodness April, is that all snow on your porch? Love it, we never get snow.
April Hoff says
It sure is!!! You can have some of ours! 🙂
Chelsea @ Making Home Base says
oh I love your tricks and I totally do the same. All my project pics are taken by the sliding glass door and I totally use my bedspread as a backdrop for my kiddo’s pics!
April Hoff says
The sliding glass door trick works every time! 🙂
Emily Taylor says
Love the tips! I always have a hard time finding spots in my house for photos! We only have 5 small windows! It’s ridiculous. The mirror is a great idea and brings in more light! Your little subject is adorable, too!
http://www.sunnyfleurphotos.net
Julie Whitt says
Thanks for the great tips! I must ask, where did you get the curtain for your sliding door and yellow rug? It’s adorable!!
April Hoff says
Thanks, Julie! I got the curtains at Crate & Barrel and the rug is from Home Goods! 🙂