Open shade: the easiest flattering light for portraits

Open shade is shade that is open to a large area of sky. The subject is out of direct sun but still lit by bright, diffused light from the sky and surroundings. It is one of the easiest ways to get flattering portraits.

Where to find it

• The shaded side of a building
• Under the portales and arcades of Mérida’s Centro
• Under trees with an open view to the sky
• Inside a doorway, facing out

Positioning

Place your subject at the edge of the shade, facing toward the open sky or a bright wall. This direction gives soft light on the face and attractive catchlights in the eyes. If the subject goes too deep into the shade, the light becomes flat and dull.

Watch the background

A sunlit background behind a shaded subject will be much brighter. Expose for the face and choose a background that also sits in shade, or accept a bright, airy look.

Color correction

Shade is lit by blue sky, so skin can look cool. Set white balance to shade (around 7000K) or warm it slightly in editing.