Taking Photos in Low-Light Situations (And How I Do It)

Low-light situations are one of the largest challenges any photographer faces. Though a photographer may pay thousands of dollars on cameras, lenses, and lighting, even the best gear is useless without the proper technique that comes through experience.

I cannot tell you how many photographers I have worked with who are inexperienced when it comes to proper lighting. The last thing a client wants to hear after spending thousands of dollars for a wedding photographer is "the lighting just wasn't ideal". In my mind that phrase or the phrase that "it wasn't ideal" in general is unacceptable. There are two things that go into successfully photographing couples in low light: gear and experience. In the paragraphs below, I will explain how I use both of these factors to create the best photos, no matter the situation.

As far as gear goes, I own everything required to get the photo I want in any conditions. From owning two of the best cameras on the market as well as the best lenses for low light, to having the best lighting setups, I make sure that I am equipped for the occasion. For those curious about my gear, I own a Nikon d850 and d750 and use Sigma prime lenses which are known to take the best photos in low light conditions.

Expertise is something that is not learned overnight. My skill has been honed over years of practice. As stated in my bio, I originally got a camera to photograph the outdoors as I went on trips. I would photograph day and night with night-time being one of my favorite times to take photos. I learned the limits and abilities of my gear and how to get the photos I wanted when little to no light was available.

Fast forward a few years, thousands of photos, and many weddings later and I feel confident that I can get the desired photo no matter the lighting situation whether indoors or at night. That is not to say that some conditions are less "ideal" than others; but as a professional wedding photographer, bad lighting should be no excuse for bad photos.

When walking into a room or indoor venue, one of the first things I ask myself is how to light the space for the best photos possible. There really are only three options: natural light, artificial light, or ambient light.

Natural light is always the most ideal. Whenever I can, I will move couples or people to places with beautiful natural light to get the photos I want. This is most commonly seen in getting-ready photos.

When natural light is not available, artificial lighting must be used. When used correctly, it can be tough to distinguish the difference between artificial and natural light. Common times I use artificial light are at indoor venues with little to no natural light or during receptions when they are at or after dusk.

There are very few times that I will use ambient light after dark. One of the few times I do so is when I wish to keep the ambiance or feel of a photo. This is most common in send-offs. Other times this is the case are when it is not possible or allowed to use lighting indoors. However, as stated, that is what my camera gear and experience is for, and the photos still turn out amazing.

It is important for couples to trust that their photographer will get the shots they want no matter the lighting conditions. I hope that this post helped explain my process as well as give you confidence in my expertise. I look forward to working with you in capturing your special day.

For more information on what I offer, go check out my wedding packages and engagement photo options.

-Zach