I’ve decided to tuck the photography section into its own little corner (link in the lower right hand corner of the blog). Anyone interested can come peek in, and others who aren’t quite so obsessed with buttons and dials can feel free to pass it by. I don’t plan to feature many of the posts on the front page, just in the little side box.

Meanwhile, my ideas are tumbling over each other again too quickly for me to keep up! That tells me I may be on the right track. 😉

Lately I’ve read a couple of posts about using ambient light to create catchlights in the eyes. In American Mum’s post here, a window is used for indoor shots, while Miz Booshay’s post here suggests going under an overhang on cloudy days and asking the subject to look out at the light.

The photos below weren’t taken on a cloudy day, but the same principles apply. For this type of photo, try for conditions that include:

1) diffused, even lighting across the face (as opposed to shadows or harsh, direct sun), and
2) a light source that creates sparkly catchlights in the eyes.

Indoors, a lamp can be used…

Natural light from a window creates better indoor lighting, if you have the right setup.

It’s often easier just to go outside, though.

In the photo above, my son was standing under the shade of a porch, looking out at the sunlit sky. Compare to the next photo:

I like his sweet expression – I will treasure this photo – but it didn’t catch a sparkle in his eyes.

American Mum points out that another benefit of having the subject look at a light source is that you’ll find yourself in many of the photos! Can you see me (and my shadow) here?

If you don’t have an awning or overhanging porch, the shade of a wall can work. Just make sure the subject is looking out at the light:

This is a great time of year to give natural catchlights a try! Head outside with a sweet subject and enjoy some spring sunshine and warm temperatures.

I’d love to know how it goes!