When you prepare your elopement photography Hobart session, it’s extremely important to figure out what kind of lighting you want to have. After all, lighting will shape the look and feel of your images, while also influencing the way the overall story is told. You have the option to have studio lighting or go for an outdoor session. What are the pros and cons of each option?  Let’s find out.

Natural light photography

By choosing natural light for your Tasmania wedding photography session, you rely on existing light sources, while also taking pictures in an open, outdoor environment. A lot of people choose this lighting style because they get to showcase the beautiful landscapes, textures, and weather in Tasmania. There are great options, like coastal elopements on the Tasman Peninsula, a forest ceremony, golden hour portraits, or overcast-day pictures with stunning natural light.

Pros

  • Natural light brings you a very authentic, rather timeless feel.
  • It’s the go-to option for elopement and wedding photography Hobart sessions, thanks to the stunning outdoor experience, which seamlessly translates into astounding photos.
  • Overcast days in Tasmania act like a beautiful softbox, so you’re getting gentle light that will reduce shadows, while flattering skin tones.
  • It’s a less intrusive option, and it focuses more on relaxation.

Cons

  • You have less control, since natural light will change all the time.
  • Additionally, you’re limited to the place’s lighting. For example, taking pictures during the middle of the day can be difficult due to the harsh sun. Also, late receptions might not benefit at all from natural light.
  • You’re always dependent on timing, so the schedule has to be modified according to the weather.

Studio light photography

If you want to have more control over the entire experience, choosing studio lighting is usually the better option. It relies on continuous light sources, strobes, and flashes, all of which help create the type of light you want. Aside from being something you can set up within a studio, you can also bring it on location.

Pros

  • Studio lighting offers full creative control. You can easily modify the light quality, direction, and intensity. Plus, you’re not as weather and natural light-dependent, either.
  • It’s something you can rely on in any environment, no matter the situation.
  • You get a more editorial, dramatic style. That makes it a great idea for a couple who are interested in editorial photography or fashion-focused pictures.

Cons

  • You lose the natural feel that would normally come from natural light.
  • Not only that, but you also have to rely on a lot of equipment. So, if anything breaks, it might lead to issues.
  • Studio lights can be distracting, especially during emotional moments.

Which is the better option?

Both natural and studio lights are great in their own right. However, you want to go with natural light if you want a relaxed, documentary-style picture, if you want to take pictures in nature, and also value emotion over too much polish. Studio lighting is more suitable for indoor events, especially those that take place during the night. The latter option can also be more suitable for cinematic images, if you want consistent lighting or if you take pictures in a darker venue/place.

It’s a very good idea to weigh the pros and cons of each option before choosing the right one. A balance of both is also an option, so keep that in mind. Make sure that you take your time, study all the options, and you will find it much easier to narrow down what suits your needs the most. Get in touch with Linda Pasfield Photography to book your session.