The Noon Photography Myth
Does More Light Really Make Better Photos?
Here's how the noon photography myth comes into play... Many inexperienced
photographers think that the more light you have, the better your photos will
be.
Ask any number of people what the best time of day is for photography and invariably someone will say, "Noon! Duh…"
No, no, no…
Actually, that is the worst time of day for outdoor photos. For some reason, inexperienced photographers think that the more light you can get on your subject the better. Nothing could be further from the truth. As far as sunlight goes, more is definitely not better.
What's wrong with noon sunlight?
Cameras have a limited dynamic range. The camera sees these bright conditions of direct sunlight differently than our eyes do. A photo taken in bright mid-day light will invariably have high contrasts, with dark shadows.
The harsh white light destroys detail. It can cause your photos to be over exposed with blown out highlights. The camera tries to compensate for the brightness, and dark shadows result.
What is the best time for outdoor photos?
When the sun is low in the sky, sunlight passes through more of the atmosphere. This diffuses the light, making it softer and warmer in nature. Morning or afternoon photos have potential for more interesting colors and longer shadows.
How to make the best of noon sunlight when you don't have any choice.
If you must shoot in bright mid-day sun, there are a few things you can do to get better photos.
Where ever possible, move your subject into the shade. Look around to find a tree or the back side of a building.
Watch your histogram for blown out highlights: those unrecoverable bright patches in your photos. If you see the white blinkies, adjust your exposure accordingly.
Take advantage of the light. Find subjects with interesting shadows and contrast.
Pop Quiz: Is bright sunlight best for photos?
Nope, it's not! The warm light of early morning or late afternoon gets the best results.
That said, don't stop taking photos in the mid-day. Learn what your camera can do. Use the available light to get the best picture possible under whatever conditions you are in.
