I always hear people asking why do we need strobes when shooting outdoor on a broad daylight. I always answer, “Because you’re in total control of the lighting situation”. My usual problem with using natural light is either having the subject’s exposure correct but burnt background or a properly exposed background but an underexposed subject, resulting in a compromised exposure on both subject and background, which ultimately means more time in Photoshop. There’s nothing wrong in using available light. In fact, there are a lot of photographers out there who made do without strobes. If you can make it work with a natural light, that would be better because you’ll have lesser cost and lesser back pains carrying around your lights. Available light can give perfect results, but I just can’t rely on it all the time.

Here’s a basic example for us to ponder. Read More