Here are 6 things you need to know when you are using window lighting in your photos

Having the lighting correct in photographs is so important and adds so much to the layout of pictures. Many photographers love the natural lighting that comes from taking pictures outside, but sometimes weather and other circumstances prevent that from happening. Here are 6 things you to know when you are using window lighting in your photos.
If you are stuck indoors for an event or because the weather stops you from taking photographs with outdoor light you can use natural light coming in from windows. Using natural light from windows can be just as effective as taking outdoor pictures. Use the tips below to best utilize window lighting for your photographs.
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1. Do your research
Get a good feel for your surroundings and the best places to take your shots before your session or event. Keep in mind which direction the building faces, what times the lighting hits the window best, and what time of year it is since these will all affect the type of light that you can use coming through the window.
2. White balance
The color of light will change throughout the day, affecting the white balance of the final photographs. Shoot in RAW format if you can, since this will let you adjust the pictures after taking them for besting lighting. You can also use the Kelvin scale on your camera to get the best lighting while taking shots.
3. Equipment and settings
Keep a tripod with you to use for still shots and portrait shots. Utilize your camera's exposure triangle, which is where ISO, aperture and shutter speed are set to work with each other to produce quality pictures using window lighting. Use a fast shutter speed if you choose to not use a tripod, a low f-stop/aperture for shallow depth of field and large ISO to bring in more light.
4. Diffuser and reflector
A diffuser and reflector are great to use for indoor pictures. A reflector can reflect light back onto the subject, brightening the photograph. A diffuser softens the light and is great when you have to take pictures in the middle of the day when the light is the strongest outside.
5. Window light settings
You can use the window light to produce different settings, based on when you take your pictures and where you place your subject or subjects. Getting sidelight with the window is achieved by angling the subject near the window or putting them parallel to the window. Place the subject with their back to the window for them to be backlit by the window. To get the most even light with windows, have your subject face the window, with you in between the window and subject.
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6. Fake open shade
You can fake open shade if taking photographs near a window is not an option. You can use doorways, open hallways or a garage to achieve more light on your subject. Keep the subject near a doorway, with their body angled toward the hallway, door or garage.