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Let there be LIGHT! Light is one of the most important components when it comes to photography. And for the improvement of portrait photography, natural light plays the most important role. 

Studio photographers rely on equipment to create masterpieces. Natural light portrait photographers, on the other hand, depend on weather and great timing to take stunning portraits. 

I personally LOVE natural light portraits. That soft, beautiful ambient light has always been a big draw for me over using flashes and studio lighting. So let me help you with basic ideas of harnessing sunlight for your images and getting amazing outdoor photos.

Shadows, Shadows
Find the soft, even shade areas outside and have some fun! Shade can actually bring the beautiful and gorgeous light for your images. 

For gorgeous natural light portraits effect, use parts of nature or buildings to create shade. These can be branches, plants, walls, etc. There really is no limit to what you can use when it comes to shade, so be as innovative as you like!

Harsh light might not be the ideal choice to get the photos right. But in that case, you can improvise. Creative shadows and patterns can be attractive as they have the potential to transform simple elements into a work of art. 

Create Panoramas
This is something I always love to create with beautiful landscapes. I know you might be thinking that it is not possible to capture a very wide view. But what you can do is you can take a series of linked pictures with a tripod or a steady hand, and then stich the images together in Lightroom or Photoshop for an epic photo. In this way, you will bring together all the light and dark areas while amplifying the photo.

Use Window Light
Places with big windows are the best place to take indoor photos, especially when the sun is not streaming in harsh light through the window at that moment. Turn off all of the lights in the room and just work with beautiful ambient light.

Backgrounds and Natural Light
Backgrounds that complement your subject will look amazing in natural light. Try to remove clutter from your background as it may compete too much with your subject.

Bring Elements
Think about your composition. Feel free to add elements that help tell your story.  Add elements such as bubbles, books or even feathers to make your images more interesting.

Use your imagination. Buy flowers, confetti, silly string, etc., and find ways to add them to your compositions.