Experimenting with Backlighting [or Why a Photographer of Girls Should Always Carry a Brush and Hair Accessories!]

Lets just start out by saying that taking pictures in full sun has ALWAYS scared me to death. Harsh shadows and bright spots--need I say more. I have tried flash to even those areas out, but I haven't mastered that and I still tend to get unpleasant photos most of the time. My motto has been, "Open shade is my best friend." For the last 4 1/2 years, I have lived and breathed this motto (at least for portraits.) However, recently I have seen some fantastic pictures taken in full sun with the sun behind the subject (backlighting). Sometimes, the photographer even got some "artistic" sun flare, too. (Side note--unartistic is not pretty--artistic is!!) I had wanted to try, but my fears had always taken over. "Shade, shade, shade," would ring out loudly in my ear.

Well, enter my last family photo shoot. I knew because of the time of day and weather that we would be photographing in full sun. I was scared, actually, lets say terrified. So, I loaded up my kids (and a VERY indulging husband) and set off to find the light and photograph in full sun. Before peeking at these pictures, please note that I have MUCH to learn in this area. I had many outtakes that you'll not see (it's my blog and I you are under my power--ha ha.) But for a first attempt, there were a few keepers. After seeing the pictures--I think the title will make sense.






These aren't perfect, but have shown me that a photographer CAN successfully photograph in full sun and have pictures turn out. I won't be so scared next time and will try more. I'd accept any comments or suggestions, especially if you have more experience than me in this area (and I would be thrilled if you'd comment even if you don't!)