Finding the Light: Why I Love Both Studio and Natural Lighting in Photography

Finding the Light: Why I Love Both Studio and Natural Lighting in Photography

When it comes to photography, light is everything. It sets the mood, shapes the subject, and brings a photo to life. In my studio, I’m lucky to have the best of both worlds—beautiful natural light pouring in from large windows and a full studio lighting setup ready for any creative challenge.

Over the years, I’ve grown to truly love and appreciate both natural and studio light. Each offers its own unique beauty and serves a special purpose depending on the moment, the subject, and the emotion I’m trying to capture.

Natural Light: Soft, Timeless, and Full of Life

There’s something magical about natural light. The way it softly wraps around a newborn’s cheeks or how it gently highlights a mother’s belly during a maternity session—it’s pure and timeless. Natural light tends to create a more organic, lifestyle feel, and I often use it when I want to capture warmth, emotion, and the sweet everyday moments that make each family unique.

My studio is designed to take full advantage of this light, with bright white walls and soft neutral tones that reflect and enhance the sunlight. It creates a calm and cozy space perfect for relaxed sessions, especially in my bedroom-style setup.

Studio Light: Controlled, Creative, and Consistent

Studio lighting, on the other hand, gives me the freedom to create exactly the look I want, no matter the time of day or the weather outside. It’s especially helpful when photographing tiny newborns who need a consistent, warm environment or when I want to create soft shadows, dramatic highlights, or a classic portrait style.

With studio lights, I can replicate natural light or go bold and artistic depending on the vision for the session. It’s also a lifesaver during those cloudy days or early evening shoots when natural light just isn’t enough.

The Best of Both Worlds

What I love most is that I don’t have to choose one or the other. I often use a mix of natural and studio lighting during a session, depending on what feels right in the moment. Sometimes I’ll start with the dreamy window light and then transition into a studio-lit setup for something more styled and polished. This flexibility allows me to fully tell each family’s story—from soft and sentimental to bright and joyful.

Whether it’s the glow of a golden morning or the perfectly placed pop of a strobe, every kind of light has a place in my work. And the best part? They all come together to create images that feel real, beautiful, and full of love.