Window shopping: How to Use Window Light Like a Pro (Without Scaring Your Neighbors)

Lighting is the easiest way to turn a seemingly mundane shot into a little bit of magic and there is no easier way to do that than to start with understanding natural light. Window light is a fantastic option for boudoir photography, but not all windows and times of day are created equal.

In this blog post we’ll be exploring the use of windows, other than for prancing past in the nude, and learning how natural light can be your best friend when it comes to taking boudoir and nude shots at home.

Scout Out Your Windows (Before Your Neighbors Call the Cops)

First things first, let's find a window that will provide you with the best lighting for your boudoir shoot. South-facing windows typically let in the most light, but you also want to consider the placement of the window and whether or not you can create some privacy.

If you're shooting in a space with large windows that let in too much light, you can create privacy by using blinds or curtains. Alternatively, you can create a more intimate setting by using sheer curtains or gauzy fabric to diffuse the light.

Timing is Everything (Just Like in Stand-up Comedy)

The time of day can make a huge difference when it comes to window light. You'll want to avoid harsh midday sunlight and instead aim for the softer, warmer glow of early morning or late afternoon light. The golden hour, which is the hour just before sunset or just after sunrise, is a particularly great time to shoot.

During the golden hour, the light is soft and warm, which is perfect for creating a flattering look. If you're shooting indoors, you'll want to choose a time of day when the window you're shooting near is getting indirect sunlight. This will help create a softer and more even light.

"There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs. Light is essential to photography, and understanding light and how it affects your subject is the key to capturing great images." - Ansel Adams.

Get Creative with Your Window Treatments (It's Like Dressing Up Your Windows)

If your window is letting in too much harsh light, don't worry! You can always dress up your windows with some sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse the light and create a softer, more flattering look. When choosing window treatments, consider the color and thickness of the fabric. Lighter, sheer fabrics will let in more light and create a softer look.

Darker or thicker fabrics will create a more dramatic look, but will also block more light. You can also use a reflector to bounce light back onto your subject and fill in any shadows.

A white foam board or a silver reflector are both great options. Place the reflector on the opposite side of the window from your subject and experiment with the angle to get the best results.

Experiment with Different Angles (It's Like a Workout for Your Creativity Muscles)

Don't be afraid to get creative with your angles. Move around and experiment to find the best light. Try standing closer or farther away from the window, or moving to the side to capture a different angle of light.

You can also experiment with different poses and expressions to see how they look in different lighting situations. When shooting, it's important to pay attention to the light and how it's hitting your subject. Look for shadows and highlights, and try to position your subject in a way that flatters their features.

Shooting while you are facing the window will create a flat light covering the whole of the subject while placing your subject with the window on the side will create a more dramatic effect, highlighting shapes and curves. Be sure you also check how much light is coming in from other windows as this will also have an effect on the shot.

Using window light for boudoir photography is a great way to create stunning, natural-looking portraits. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to use window light like a pro without scaring your neighbors or breaking the bank on fancy equipment. So, whether you're shooting at home or in a client's space, embrace natural light and let it work its magic. Why not check out our post on Angles of light to take our window light photography to the next level.