Introduction
Finding the best time to film with natural light can be tricky, especially when you're juggling unpredictable weather and tight deadlines for content delivery. You might have noticed that certain times of the day give your videos that perfect glow, while others leave them looking flat and uninspiring. This isn't just a matter of aesthetics; good lighting can be the difference between a video that pops and one that gets scrolled past.
You've probably heard terms like 'golden hour' thrown around, but maybe you're not entirely sure how to make the most of it. Or perhaps you're struggling to fit filming into your busy schedule and need to know exactly when to carve out time for shooting. Let's break down the best times of day to film with natural light and how you can use this to your advantage to create stunning UGC content that stands out and attracts brands.
rning
Morning light, particularly between 7 AM and 10 AM, offers a soft, diffused quality that can be perfect for filming. If you're shooting beauty tutorials or lifestyle content, this time is ideal because it minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, giving a flattering, even tone across your subject. For instance, a beauty influencer filming a skincare routine might find the gentle morning light helps showcase product textures and skin tones beautifully without needing additional lighting equipment.
The morning also tends to be quieter, which is great if you're filming outdoors. Less background noise means less editing time later. However, keep in mind that morning light changes quickly. The difference in lighting between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM can be dramatic, so plan your shoots accordingly. Aim to start filming as soon as you have enough natural light to avoid those harsh direct sun rays that come later in the morning.
ternoon Light
Filming between 1 PM and 4 PM can be challenging due to the harshness of the sun, but it's not without its advantages. If you're shooting indoors near a large window, this time can offer strong, consistent light that can be softened with sheer curtains. For example, a creator filming a cooking tutorial in a bright kitchen can take advantage of the strong afternoon light to highlight vibrant food colors and textures.
Afternoon light is also suitable for high-energy content like workout videos, where the bright and dynamic environment matches the video's tone. If you do venture outdoors, look for shaded areas to avoid harsh shadows and squinting subjects. A simple outdoor setup can include a pop-up reflector to bounce light and soften shadows, ensuring your footage remains usable.
lden Hour Filming
Golden hour, occurring approximately an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset, is often considered the holy grail for natural lighting. The warm, soft light during this time is incredibly flattering, reducing harsh shadows and giving everything a warm glow. If you're filming travel content or outdoor lifestyle shots, this is your prime time. A travel vlogger capturing scenic landscapes can use the golden hour to enhance the natural beauty of their location, adding a cinematic quality to their videos.
Golden hour doesn't last long, typically 30-60 minutes, so preparation is key. Have your equipment set up and ready to go well in advance. Consider using a tripod to stabilize your shots and capture those rich, warm colors without the need for excessive post-production editing.
nditions
Cloudy days might seem like a drag, but overcast conditions offer a natural diffuser that can be a blessing in disguise. The clouds spread the sunlight evenly, reducing shadows and providing a soft, even light that's perfect for filming. This lighting is particularly useful for fashion or product shoots where consistent lighting is crucial to maintain the true color and detail of the items being filmed.
For instance, a fashion influencer showcasing a new clothing line can benefit from the uniform lighting to ensure the colors of the fabrics are accurately represented. When working in overcast conditions, be mindful of the potential for rain, and always have waterproof gear or a quick indoor backup plan ready.
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- Ignoring Light Changes: Many creators forget how quickly natural light can change, leading to inconsistent footage. Always monitor the light and adjust your settings as needed.
- Shooting at Noon: Direct overhead sun creates harsh shadows. Unless you're specifically going for a high-contrast look, avoid filming around midday.
- Neglecting Reflectors: Not using reflectors to manipulate natural light is a missed opportunity. Reflectors can help fill shadows and balance the lighting.
- Failing to Check Weather: Overlooking the weather forecast can lead to unexpected lighting conditions. Always plan your shoots around the predicted weather.
- Poor Location Choice: Choosing locations without considering the natural light angle can result in poorly lit shots. Scout your locations at the time you plan to shoot.
- Inconsistent White Balance: Not setting a consistent white balance can lead to color shifts throughout your shoot, making editing a nightmare.
- Not Preparing for Golden Hour: Failing to prepare for the short window of golden hour can result in missed opportunities. Have everything ready to maximize this time.
Next Steps for UGC Creators
Start by scheduling your next shoot during one of the optimal times discussed and see how it transforms your content quality. Consider investing in a basic lighting kit for those days when natural light just isn't cooperating. Remember, timing and preparation are key. By mastering natural light, you not only improve your content but also enhance your appeal to brands.
To streamline your workflow and free up more time for creative pursuits, check out UGCRoster's tools for automating brand outreach. Having verified contacts and automated Gmail pitches at your fingertips means you can focus less on the hustle and more on creating stunning content during the best light of the day.
FAQ
What phone do I need for UGC content?
You don't need the latest model; any phone with a decent camera will do. For example, a mid-range phone like the Samsung Galaxy A52 can handle most UGC tasks with its 64MP camera and good low-light performance. Focus on features like camera quality and battery life rather than brand prestige. This ensures you're spending wisely while still getting the results you need for high-quality content.
droid for UGC?
iPhones are known for their consistent camera quality, but Android phones like the Google Pixel can offer similar, if not better, results. The Pixel's Night Sight mode, for instance, is excellent for low-light conditions. It ultimately depends on your familiarity with the operating system and which features you prioritize, like photo editing apps exclusive to one platform.
Should I turn off HDR on my iPhone?
Turning off HDR can give you more control in post-editing, especially if you're shooting in challenging lighting. For instance, HDR might over-brighten a scene with harsh afternoon light, losing detail in highlights. By turning it off, you can manually adjust exposure and contrast later to match your creative vision.
Do I need a professional camera or is a phone enough?
A phone is enough for most UGC, especially with models like the iPhone 13 or Samsung S21 offering pro-level video features. For example, Cinematic Mode on the iPhone lets you adjust focus after filming, making it versatile for content creation. Unless your niche requires ultra-high resolution or specific lens types, your phone can handle it.
What's the best budget phone for UGC?
The Google Pixel 4a is a great budget option, offering excellent camera quality for its price. It includes features like Night Sight and Portrait Mode, which can enhance your content without breaking the bank. With a price point under $350, it's a solid choice for those starting in UGC or looking to upgrade without spending too much.
Should I upgrade my phone before starting UGC?
Upgrade only if your current phone struggles with basic tasks like video editing or battery life. For instance, if you're using an older model like the iPhone 6 and find it lags during content creation, then it might be time to consider an upgrade. Prioritize features like camera specs and storage capacity over just getting the latest release.
Can I use an older phone model?
You can use an older model if it still meets your needs for video quality and app compatibility. For instance, an iPhone 8 or Samsung Galaxy S8 can still produce decent footage, especially if you focus on good lighting and composition. However, keep in mind that older phones might struggle with newer apps or updates.
What camera settings should I use?
Start with auto settings if you're new, but explore manual modes to enhance your content. For example, adjusting the ISO to 100-200 in bright conditions can reduce noise, while a higher ISO helps in low-light. Experiment with settings like exposure and white balance to find what works best for your content style.
Should I shoot in 4K or 1080p?
Shoot in 4K if you plan to edit heavily or need the highest quality for brand deals. 4K allows more flexibility in editing, like cropping without losing quality. However, if storage and processing power are concerns, 1080p is sufficient for most platforms and quicker to upload, especially if you're posting frequently.
What frame rate is best for UGC videos?
A frame rate of 30fps is a good standard for most UGC content, offering smooth motion without excessive file size. If you're filming action sequences or want a cinematic look, consider 60fps to capture more detail. For instance, using 60fps for a workout video can emphasize fast movements and provide a dynamic feel.