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Artificial light or natural light?

The use of natural and artificial light in architecture and interior design photography is a crucial choice for professional photographers. Indeed, light plays a fundamental role in the quality and ambiance of each photograph, as well as in the coherence of a series.

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Natural light is often considered the best source of light for photographing interior spaces. It creates soft, natural light effects that make spaces feel more vibrant and welcoming. It can also highlight the textures, shapes, and colors of objects and materials used in interior design.

 

However, natural light can be limited depending on weather conditions, the time of day, or the layout of the space and its openings, especially when there isn’t enough natural light or when the direction of the light isn’t ideal to showcase the photographed space. In such cases, artificial light can be used to complement or replace natural light to achieve more consistent and predictable results.

 

The advantages of artificial light are numerous. It allows control over the intensity, direction, and color of the light, enabling the creation of specific lighting effects. It can also provide light to darker areas and balance natural light by adjusting shadows and contrasts within the space.

 

It is important to note that the use of artificial light should be subtle and creative. Flash lighting shouldn’t be used to eliminate shadows but rather to recreate them realistically. Shadows are a vital element of architectural and interior design photography, adding depth, texture, and dimension to the photographed spaces.

 

In conclusion, there is no simple answer as to whether it’s better to use natural or artificial light. Both types of light can be used, and the choice will depend on the location. The most important thing is to understand how each type of light works and how to use it effectively to create photos that captivate the eye and enhance the spaces.

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