8 Light Photography Ideas to Get You Inspired

Last Updated on Mar 13 2024

Working with light is a great way to introduce different elements into your pictures. But while light is a great tool to have at your disposal, it can be challenging to take your pictures to the next level.

This guide can give you a few different ideas that you can use as inspiration. So, check them out, then go see what you can create!

The 8 Light Photography Ideas

1. Write With Light by Carly Riordan

We tend to think that we can’t manipulate light that much. But with photographs, we can! Writing with light is a great way to get creative with your messaging. You can use it in many different ways, so try it out and see what you can do!

2. Use Natural Light by click it up a notch

Sometimes all you need to do to get great light elements in your photos is to use what’s already there. Natural lighting is great for photographs, and you can mix things up too. Combine natural light with a single light exposure, or find ways to filter out some of the light.

3. Use Shadows by the guardian

Sometimes the best way to use light in your photos is to take it out of certain areas. Shadows are powerful in photographs, and while they typically represent darkness, you need light to make that stand out.

4. Use Just One Light by slr lounge

Typically, it’s about eliminating shadows to get the perfect picture. But with one-light photography, you get to use them in unique ways. So, experiment with different one-light setups, and see what kinds of pictures you can get.

5. Get Close to the Subject by smashing magazine

Both micro and macro photography involve getting close to the subject, and no matter which one you go with, you can use light in a unique way. You can try to shine light completely through different objects or use shadows on a much smaller level. Either way, you’re going to get great pictures.

6. Paint With Light by idea stand

You can write different words with light, but if you want to take things a step further, try creating pictures with light. You can either add different elements to the existing background or try to create entire scenes with light.

It’s not always the easiest thing to do, but if you pull it off, it can be a great way to get unique pictures.

7. Go Abstract by flickr

Abstract photography can be challenging to create, but there are many different ways that you can use light to get the results that you want. Whether you’re distorting light with water or finding ways to shift the focus, get creative and go abstract with light!

8. Add a Starburst by loaded land scapes

For most pictures, you don’t want a starburst from light because it makes it hard to see everything. But when you’re deliberately trying to get a starburst, it’s not always the easiest thing to capture!

Still, with enough practice and hard work, you can pull it off and capture a starburst in a unique position that makes for an outstanding photo.

Final Thoughts

With so many great ideas out there, it’s up to you to make the most of them. Try pairing a few or just take elements from various ones. Mix things up, try new things, and find something that works.

Getting creative with your pictures is essential to making them stand out, so see what you can do with a camera and a unique twist on light!

Featured Image Credit: goodluz, Shutterstock