Harsh daylight This section is about light produced outdoors, on bright sunny days. The time-frame for this light is from after the sun fully rises until just before it starts to set—in other words—during the brightest part of the day. While for many photographers harsh daylight is the most undesired kind of light to work with, it can be a powerful tool in the hands of a photographer who is fully aware of its characteristics, potential and limitations. (left) 16-35@20mm, f/2.8, 1/1600s, ISO 100 (middle) 16-35@16mm, f/4.5 1/1000s, ISO 100 (right) 16-35@35mm, f/6.3, 1/500, ISO 100
• This type of light is extremely bright and very harsh. • It has a neutral effect on colors before the sun nears its peak. At the peak of the sun’s path the light begins to bleach colors, making them less vivid and lively. The sky starts to lose some of its blue, though this effect is seen more in some geographical locations than others. • It creates deep shadows and very strong contrasts at all times. When photographing people, the shadows can be particularly noticeable and prominent around the eyes. • This light can be directed to an extent, more so before the sun is at its peak. The directing is done by simply moving yourself and/or your subjects around. You’ll notice the effect of directing light this way through the shadows, which become more or less prominent. • This is not a romantic or a beautifying kind of light. Because of its harshness and casting of shadows, textured surfaces such as skin can appear rougher than they really are. • This light can create a sense of volume. While this effect is not as strongly felt as during the magic hour or in directed diffused light indoors, the harsh daylight is definitely not flat.
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