April 10, 2025
Photography
Why Lighting Can Make or Break Your Photos and How I Always Get It Right
Light Is Everything (Seriously)
Here’s a little secret most people don’t realize when they look at a gorgeous photo: it’s not just the pose, or the outfit, or even the location that makes it stunning. It’s the light. Light is what creates mood, tells a story, and gives a photo that dreamy, glowing, oh-my-god-I-love-this feel. And as a photographer in Marbella and Malaga, I’ve spent years learning exactly how to use it to your advantage.
Natural light in this region? It’s incredible. But knowing how to read it, how it bounces, where it softens, when it flatters and when it just doesn’t—that’s the real magic.
The Golden Hour Obsession (It’s Real, and It’s Worth It)
You’ve probably heard of golden hour. That window right after sunrise or just before sunset where the light is soft, warm, and basically makes everyone look like they’re starring in their own romance movie. Yeah, I’m a little obsessed with it.
Golden hour in Marbella and Malaga is especially gorgeous—think golden reflections off the sea, soft shadows in the old town streets, and a warmth that feels like summer even in the off-season.
When we time your session just right, the light does half the work for us. Skin glows, colors pop, and everything feels a little more magical. Trust me, there’s a reason photographers chase this light around the world.
What About Harsh Midday Sun?
Let’s be honest—shooting under harsh midday sun isn’t ideal. It creates shadows where we don’t want them, makes people squint, and tends to wash things out. But sometimes, that’s the only time we’ve got. No problem. That’s when experience kicks in.
As a photographer in Marbella or Malaga, I know where to find natural reflectors, open shade, and even architectural features that soften the light. I scout locations ahead of time and always keep a few tricks up my sleeve (like turning a shaded alleyway into the perfect portrait backdrop).
Shooting Indoors? It’s All About Window Light
Not every session happens outside. Sometimes we’re indoors, especially for branding shoots or personal portraits. But even there, light is queen.
I look for big windows, soft drapes, and rooms where the light falls naturally. It’s not about blasting you with studio lights or making things feel artificial. It’s about keeping that soft, flattering feel that still looks like you—just with a little extra magic.
Why Lighting Affects How You Feel in Your Photos
This might sound weird, but good lighting doesn’t just affect how you look—it affects how you feel. When you’re not squinting or standing in weird, uncomfortable shadows, you feel more relaxed. More confident. And that’s what shows up in the final images.
It’s one of those behind-the-scenes things people don’t always think about when hiring a photographer. But it’s a big part of why experience matters. When someone knows how to find the right light, you feel the difference.
Tips If You’re Planning Your Shoot
If you can, go for sunrise or sunset. Always worth it.
Don’t stress if the weather isn’t perfect. Cloudy light? Still gorgeous.
Let your photographer suggest the timing—trust the light nerds (hi, that’s me).
Communicate the vibe you want. Light helps set that tone.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to understand all the technical stuff about lighting—that’s my job. But knowing how important it is can help you make better choices when planning your session.
Whether it’s a golden-hour couple shoot on the beach or a soft-lit branding session in a cozy Marbella cafe, lighting shapes everything we create together.
Looking for a photographer in Marbella or a photographer in Malaga who knows how to find that perfect light? I’d love to chat.
Let’s create something beautiful.
Available for portraits, couples, branding sessions in Marbella, Malaga and Costa del Sol.
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© by Justina Kris Photography