Indoor Lighting with A Digital Point-and-Shoot

Lighting in general can be difficult and add to the fact that with most point and shoots the only control you have over artificial lighting is the on-camera flash. What can you do to compensate for this especially in an indoor environment where the use of flash can make your photo seem unnatural? Here are a few tips.

Use the available light in the room. If you are in well lit area see about taking the photo without using the flash. Compensate for the low light condition by raising the ISO amount or if you are able to, lower your shutter speed. Both of these changes will help to enhance the available light in a room.

Use your windows. Many times photographers place their subjects next to the window for a portrait as it adds both light and effect to the photo. If there are blinds on the window consider using them to create a dramatic effect such as bright and dark lines on your subject. Experiment with different lighting techniques. Maybe have the room completely dark except for the light coming in from the window. This can create a beautiful image.

Don’t be afraid to use artificial light in the room. Place your subject beneath or next to an external light source. Most digital point-and-shoots are good enough that they can compensate for the temperature difference automatically for the correct white balance so that should not be an issue. Place your image below and a little behind a light source to ensure an even tone across your subject. Place them next to a lamp or use the lamp in the background to light the rear of the subject.

Great lighting can be created indoors without using studio flash. You may have to be a little creative but it is possible. Try using a desk lamp or a chandelier as an experiment. At any rate, any light is good light, it is just a matter of positioning your subject in just a way that it is useful in your photo.

Until next time, Happy Shooting

-Robert Hillis