Natural lighting photography for beginners

When it comes to capturing the beauty of a photograph through watercolor painting, using natural light is essential. The play of light and shadow can truly bring your artwork to life, creating depth and dimension that is hard to achieve with artificial lighting. In this blog post, we will explore the art of watercolor painting photographs using natural light, focusing on earth tones and still life compositions.

Why is natural light important for watercolor painting?

Natural light provides a full spectrum of colors that artificial light simply cannot replicate. This allows you to accurately capture the subtle nuances of a photograph, from the warm tones of a sunset to the cool shades of a forest. By painting with natural light, you can achieve a more realistic and vibrant representation of your subject.

How to use natural light for watercolor painting?

Choose a well-lit area in your home or studio where natural light streams in consistently throughout the day. Position your photograph or still life setup near a window or door to take advantage of the soft, diffused light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows and wash out the colors in your painting.

Creating earth tone still life compositions.

For a still life composition, consider using earth tones to evoke a sense of warmth and tranquility in your artwork. Arrange objects such as fruits, flowers, or pottery in a simple yet visually appealing manner. Pay attention to the interplay of light and shadow on your subject, as this will add depth and realism to your painting.

Experiment with different angles and compositions to find the perfect balance of light and shadow in your watercolor painting. Remember to observe how natural light changes throughout the day, as this can affect the overall mood and atmosphere of your artwork. With practice and patience, you can master the art of watercolor painting photographs using natural light, creating stunning pieces that capture the beauty of the world around you.

For my works I use Sigma SD Quattro + sigma lens A Artistic 30mm