A Harsh Light Session

I have toyed with the idea of photographing a subject in harsh light, but never really made plans to schedule the shoot.  Let’s be honest.  I was afraid of harsh light.  I preferred the beauty of the sweet hour (the natural light right before sunset or right after sunrise).  It’s the most flattering light for everyone.  I also enjoyed sessions on a cloudy day.  The clouds provide nice even light.  Photographing in harsh light never appealed to me.  I didn’t want my images to have hard lines, and I wasn’t a fan of dappled light.  Still not a fan.  However, all of that changed in October.  I decided that I wanted to photograph someone during the worst time of day – between 10:00 am – 3:00 PM.  

I put out a model call in one of my photography groups.  I already had the dress.  I purchased it this summer at a local thrift store.  I selected my model, Gabrielle, and she was lovely.  I also purchased a neutral density filter specifically for this shoot, and to use in future sessions.  I purchased a couple of vases and a basket from Goodwill for the session, and bought sunflowers from HEB.  I was going to use a canvas as the “blanket”, but JoAnn’s was too crowded.  Shame on me for waiting until the last minute.  I packed the crate that I had at home to be part of the scene. 

I arrived at Brushy Creek early to scout out areas.  Although, I’ve had several sessions at the park before, it wasn’t at this time of day.  Naturally, the light was different.  I did know that I wanted to shoot in the open field to take full advantage of the light.  

When Gabrielle arrived, I met her in the parking lot, and gave her the dress.  Another reason that I like shooting at Brushy Creek Park is because it has a bathroom where the model can change.  We made our way to the open field, and I set up the set.  I gave Gabrielle the theme of the session, “Her Royal Highness”, and she killed it. I played my Spotify channel.  We laughed and talked during the session.  I was able to complete the session in 40 minutes.   When I culled the session, I was so pleased with the frames.  The white balance was spot on, and I didn’t have to edit.  Here are a few of my favorites.