A brief explanation of the these different looks for and why you, as a client, might prefer one or the other for an outdoor portrait shoot.

Natural Light
Fairly self-explanatory: this is light that comes from a natural source, i.e. the sun. The quality of light for a natural light photo shoot is therefore 100% dependent on the given sky and weather conditions at the time of shooting.

Using natural light only, both the subjects and the photographer can move freely shoot continuously, as there's no additional equipment to set up / take down or adjust each time there is a change in location, "backdrop" or perspective. The practicality and flexibility of this shooting approach, will thus result in more shots being taken over a given session and, consequently, a wider variety of images from which a selection can be made.

Flash / Strobe (or more accurately: Off-Camera Flash / On Location Strobe Lighting)
If you've ever witnessed a commercial photo shoot or spent any time in a photographer's studio, you'll recognise this type of light. For portraiture, the flash (smaller) or strobe (larger) will normally be placed within or behind a light modifier (e.g. an umbrella or a soft box) which will serve to diffuse and direct the light, thereby improving its quality.

As the amount and quality of light given from an off-camera flash is fully controllable, this approach can assure a well-lit photograph, regardless of the elements. Whether used subtly for a more "natural" effect or in a very pronounced way for a more stylised look flash / strobe lighting can also be combined, as desired, with the available natural light.

Contrary to using natural light only, off-camera flash used outdoors will mean that, over the course of a professional photo shoot, time will have to be allowed for the photographer to assemble, dissemble and modify the extra equipment. Also, as artificial, off-camera light is very close and precise (as appose to the sun's light, 149.6 million km away!), once equipment has been set up, a subject is more limited in terms of movement and posing.

*** "Off-Camera" simply means that the flash / strobe is not attached directly to the camera, but stands alone. “On-Camera” flash, where a flash sits directly on the photographers camera is typically used when the photographer needs to mobile, hence its used in event photography, rather than dedicated portraiture ***

Why would I prefer a Natural Light Photo Shoot?

If you want candid images as well as portraiture
If you're visiting Paris and you want to place emphasis on your beautiful surroundings as well as yourself
If you're more than one person
If you want a maximum number of photographs
If waiting around and posing precisely wouldn't be appropriate or enjoyable for you.
If you prefer the look of natural light

Why would I prefer a Flash / Strobe Photo Shoot?

If you only want portraits (i.e. no candid images)
If you're an artist (actor, model, musician) wanting more promotional, stylised look to your images (and you really want the viewer to know you've had a photo shoot)
If you need images of yourself for professional purposes (e.g. for your online business profile or biography), where a more defined look is preferable
If you're an individual or small group (more subjects = more complications = longer setting up and shooting periods!)
If you prefer the look of off-camera lighting :)

Can I combine a Natural Light and Flash/Strobe Shoot?
Absolutely. Like all of my services, I aim to tailor ever proposal to the clients needs. For more information, simply get in touch.

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