What's the Rule of Thumb for Avoiding Dark Photos on Sunny Days?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread centers around participants sharing their experiences and tips for taking better photographs in sunny conditions, particularly focusing on avoiding dark images due to shadows and backlighting. Participants discuss various techniques and settings to improve photo quality, especially for family pictures during vacations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with dark photos despite having a decent camera, seeking advice on positioning relative to the sun.
  • Another participant shares that the sun should be behind the camera to avoid backlighting issues, which can result in dark subjects.
  • Several users mention the importance of avoiding shooting into bright windows or doorways to prevent dark images.
  • One participant recalls a personal experience of discomfort from bright sunlight while being photographed, suggesting that keeping subjects uncomfortable can be a reminder of proper positioning.
  • Some participants suggest finding open shade for better lighting conditions and mention using flash to fill in shadows when shooting into the sun.
  • Another participant discusses the potential for backlighting to create stunning images, sharing their excitement about an upcoming vacation and the location they will visit.
  • One participant notes the importance of understanding manual camera settings and suggests forcing the flash on to improve photo quality.
  • Several users mention the use of photo editing software to enhance images and compensate for lighting issues.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best techniques for achieving well-lit photographs, with no clear consensus on a single method. Participants share various tips and personal experiences without a unified approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants are preparing for a vacation and are eager to improve their photography skills, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice based on their experiences with different camera settings and lighting conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and community members interested in photography, particularly those looking to enhance their skills for capturing family moments in sunny environments.

kcjodih
kcjodih
Gold Member
Messages
3,391
Okay I have a fairly decent camera that I paid good money for but I suck at photography. All I'm asking for is clear pictures of my family. It looks great on the screen, I take the pic and it comes back all dark because of shadows. So my question is what is the rule of thumb? Is the sun supposed to be behind the photographer or the subject? I can never remember and must be doing the same thing over and over because the darn pictures are dark at their faces and sunny all around them.

We leave on a mini vacation tomorrow for 5 days and I want to get it right this time!!!!! :cry::cry:
 
If you don't know how to make the adjustments for what is called "back lighting" then the simple rule of thumb is the sun should always be behind the camera. Shooting into the sun will result in the subject being dark. Also, never shoot into a window or doorway where the light behind the window or door is bright. That's called "backlighting" and the camera will adjust for that light, making everything in front of it very dark.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
The_Kitchen_Guy said:
If you don't know how to make the adjustments for what is called "back lighting" then the simple rule of thumb is the sun should always be behind the camera. Shooting into the sun will result in the subject being dark.

Also, never shoot into a window or doorway where the light behind the window or door is bright. That's called "backlighting" and the camera will adjust for that light, making everything in front of it very dark.
Click to expand...

LOL...I know nothing except point and click :rolleyes: but thank you soooo much KG that's exactly what I needed to know - sun behind the camera not the subject! Woohoo, I'm gonna take some pictures, I'm gonna take some pictures, I'm gonna take some pictures ..... and HOPEFULLY they'll turn out! :sing:
 
BTW, the proper time to practice with your camera before you leave on vacation tomorrow is about two weeks ago.That said, you might try this website that offers some basic camera knowledge.
 
I always remember that rule cuz everytime my mom took pictures of us outside...I can remember my eyes watering from having the sun in my face! So...remember to keep whoever you are taking the picture of "uncomfortable" like my brother and I had to be!! lol
 
If you can find open shade, that is the best place to shoot. Under a big shady tree, in the shade of a tall building, etc. If you are shooting in the sun, you can have the sun anywhere, but if you are shooting into the sun, turn on your flash (you should be able manually override the auto flash and make it go), so that the flash fills in the faces even though the sun is in the background. You can also have the sun to your side but depending on where the sun it, you might up with dark shadows on half the face/body.

Backlighting can actually make for some very stunning and powerful images... such as a beach at sunset. Where are you going on vacation?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
PampChefJoy said:
If you can find open shade, that is the best place to shoot. Under a big shady tree, in the shade of a tall building, etc. If you are shooting in the sun, you can have the sun anywhere, but if you are shooting into the sun, turn on your flash (you should be able manually override the auto flash and make it go), so that the flash fills in the faces even though the sun is in the background. You can also have the sun to your side but depending on where the sun it, you might up with dark shadows on half the face/body.

Backlighting can actually make for some very stunning and powerful images... such as a beach at sunset. Where are you going on vacation?
Click to expand...

Wow so much to learn/remember! Thanks Joy I'm going to print this thread out and practice/study, study, study.

We're heading to Lake George NY. We go every year to this wonderful campground. Quiet lake, lazy river, in the woods, with the mountains in the background. Then of course to appease the children we'll spend one day at Six Flags. It's about 6 - 7 hours from our place here in south eastern Ontario.
 
Sounds lovely! You should be able to find lots of open shade in the woods (watch out for dappled sunlight though). What kind of camera do you have? Does it have manual settings?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
LOL I have NO idea. We had a Canon something or other that broke on us and DH just bought one two days ago and spent good money on it. It's an early anniversary present to us since our 15th anniversary is this upcoming Thursday. However he's taken it to my son's last day at goalie camp an hour a way from here. I DO know it has manual settings though since DH was talking about those last night.
 
Like Joy said, if you do have shadows on their faces, force the flash on.
 
The_Kitchen_Guy said:
the simple rule of thumb is the sun should always be behind the camera. Shooting into the sun will result in the subject being dark. Also, never shoot into a window or doorway where the light behind the window or door is bright. That's called "backlighting" and the camera will adjust for that light, making everything in front of it very dark.
Click to expand...
Yup these are good rules togo by, also invest in a good photo editor and use software to 'fake' the back lighting. Adobe Lightroom is great and cheap, I thnk even free, picasa is another good one from Google..then there's the heavy duty Photoshop, which is the one use. good luck.:)
 
There is probably not enough time to give you a crash course in manual settings, but definitely see how you can force the flash on... if it's an SLR (40D, Rebel XTi or XSi), then there is a little button on the side with a little lightning bolt -- push that to pop the flash up.

If you have a point and shoot, like an Elph or Powershot, then you have to go into menu and cycle through until you see the lightning bolt option... make sure it's not on "auto" but on the lightning bolt. Auto will turn it off in sunlight.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
PampChefJoy said:
There is probably not enough time to give you a crash course in manual settings, but definitely see how you can force the flash on... if it's an SLR (40D, Rebel XTi or XSi), then there is a little button on the side with a little lightning bolt -- push that to pop the flash up.

If you have a point and shoot, like an Elph or Powershot, then you have to go into menu and cycle through until you see the lightning bolt option... make sure it's not on "auto" but on the lightning bolt. Auto will turn it off in sunlight.
Click to expand...


Woohoo! Even I understand that! I think I need to let DH drive a little tomorrow so I can play/practice. Usually I drive (control thing) and he sleeps but he may just have to help out tomorrow. Thanks Joy! Back to packing I go..
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rule of Thumb for Avoiding Dark Photos on Sunny Days?

The general rule of thumb is to avoid harsh midday sunlight, which can create strong shadows and overly bright highlights. Instead, aim to take photos during the golden hours—early morning or late afternoon—when the light is softer and more flattering.

How can I adjust my camera settings to improve sunny day photos?

On sunny days, consider using a lower ISO setting to reduce sensitivity to light, which can help prevent overexposure. Additionally, adjusting your aperture to a higher f-stop can help control the amount of light entering the lens, resulting in a more balanced exposure.

What are some tips for finding shade when taking photos on sunny days?

Look for natural shade from trees, buildings, or awnings. If you're outdoors, you can also create your own shade by using a reflector or an umbrella. This will help diffuse the sunlight and reduce harsh shadows on your subject.

Should I use a flash on sunny days to avoid dark photos?

Using a flash on sunny days can help fill in shadows, especially on subjects that are backlit. This technique, known as fill flash, can create a more balanced exposure and prevent dark areas in your photos.

What should I do if my photos still look dark despite following these tips?

If your photos still appear dark, consider editing them using photo editing software. Adjusting the brightness, contrast, and shadows can help enhance the overall look of your images and bring out details that may have been lost in the original shot.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Frustration of Leaving Things Behind: Tips for Avoiding It
  • babywings76
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
10
Views
1K
lauradahl
Ready for a Pampered Christmas? Check out my 12 Days of Gifts Package!
  • raebates
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
10
Views
5K
mldowney69
How did my first 90 days with PC go and what's next for my business?
  • AnnieBee
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
10
Views
2K
rebeccastt
What Should I Tip the Photographer For Free Portraits?
  • tinat51796
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
20
Views
2K
The_Kitchen_Guy
What Are the Latest Updates on Paige Dixon Birgfeld's Case?
  • The_Kitchen_Guy
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
2
Views
3K
sharalam
Lost Pictures of Names on the Wall - Can You Help?
  • janetupnorth
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
10
Views
2K
PampMomof3
Update on My First Show After Thumb Surgery
  • pamperedbecky
    • Buy and Sell Items
Replies
10
Views
1K
Chef Kearns
What's for Dinner...wednesday, June 16
  • pamperedbybarbara
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
4
Views
1K
Staci
Previous PC National Conference Photos: Get a Glimpse of Past Events!
  • pchefbonnie
    • National Conferences and Meetings
2
Replies
50
Views
6K
dannyzmom
What Do You Do to Get Rid of the Blues?
  • Kitchen Diva
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
2
Replies
52
Views
4K
stefani2
Back
Top