By Raghav | | May 13, 2026

How I Used 5 Lighting Techniques in Chennai’s May Sun

On May 10, 2023, I found myself at the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai, sweating profusely under the relentless midday sun. It was one of those days when the heat felt like an oven door had been flung wide open. I had a wedding shoot scheduled, and the couple, Priya and Arjun, were eager to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of their traditional attire against the temple’s stunning backdrop. As I set up my gear, I knew I had to be strategic about the lighting. Here’s how I navigated through the challenges of lighting under the intense Chennai sun, using five distinct techniques that made the day a success.

1. Understanding Natural Light

Natural light is both a friend and a foe for photographers, especially in a city like Chennai where the sun can be merciless. During the midday hours, direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and overexposed highlights, making it difficult to achieve flattering results. To demonstrate this, let me take you back to a shoot I did for a couple, Meera and Karthik, at the Theosophical Society in Adyar in April 2022.

The lush greenery and beautiful banyan trees provided a perfect setting, but the sun was high and unforgiving. I started by positioning them under the sprawling branches of a banyan tree, which acted as a natural diffuser. The dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves created a pleasing balance of light and shadow on their faces. This technique not only softened the light but also added a beautiful, dynamic quality to the images.

For those looking to use natural light effectively, try to plan your shoots during the golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is softer and warmer. If you have to shoot during the day, look for open shade, like that provided by trees or buildings. This can dramatically improve the quality of your photos.

2. Reflectors to Bounce Light

While shooting Priya and Arjun, I realized that the harsh midday sun was creating unflattering shadows under their eyes. To combat this, I pulled out a 5-in-1 reflector that I always carry in my bag. It’s a versatile tool that can transform your lighting conditions in seconds.

I positioned the reflector to bounce sunlight back onto their faces, and the results were immediate. The shadows lifted, and the skin tones became more vibrant. Reflectors are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for outdoor shoots. In my experience, the silver side of the reflector works best in bright sunlight, adding a nice pop to the colors.

For anyone shooting in Chennai, consider investing in a good-quality reflector. You can pick them up from local stores or online, and they can be a game changer for outdoor portraits. Just remember, you’ll need an assistant to hold it, or a sturdy stand if you’re on your own.

3. Using Off-Camera Flash

On another occasion, I was at the Marina Beach for a pre-wedding shoot with Nisha and Ravi in March 2023. As the sun began to set, I wanted to add a dramatic flair to their images. That’s when I pulled out my Godox AD200 off-camera flash. It’s a powerful tool that gives you control over your lighting and can create stunning effects.

I set up the flash on a light stand behind them, pointed it towards the couple, and adjusted the power settings. The flash added a beautiful rim light that separated them from the background, creating a three-dimensional effect. It was particularly effective against the vibrant hues of the sunset, giving the images a striking contrast that made them pop.

For anyone interested in using off-camera flash, practice is key. Make sure to familiarize yourself with your flash settings and how to balance it with ambient light. In Chennai, evenings can be quite humid, so keep an eye on your gear to avoid overheating.

4. Experimenting with Light Modifiers

One of my favorite tools for enhancing natural light is a softbox. When I was working with a lovely couple, Sneha and Vijay, at Fort St. George in February 2023, I had the opportunity to experiment with this gear. The sun was setting behind the fort, creating a beautiful backdrop but casting long shadows.

I set up a portable softbox on my flash and positioned it in front of the couple. The soft light diffused by the softbox allowed me to fill in the shadows on their faces without overpowering the ambient light. The results were stunning—soft, flattering portraits that captured the warmth of the moment.

If you’re planning to shoot in places like Fort St. George, which can get busy, make sure you have the proper permissions for using additional lighting equipment. It’s also wise to scout your location ahead of time, so you know where to set up without disrupting other visitors.

5. Embracing Sun Flare

Finally, let’s talk about sun flare. It’s a common technique that can add a dreamy quality to your images. I was shooting a family portrait for the Subramanian family at Elliot’s Beach in April 2023. The bright sun was overhead, but instead of avoiding it, I decided to embrace it.

I positioned the family so that the sun was just out of frame, allowing the sunlight to spill into the image. The result was a warm, ethereal glow that added a whimsical touch to the portraits. It’s a technique that requires some practice, but when done right, it can elevate your images to another level.

For sun flare, keep your lens clean and use a lens hood to reduce any unwanted lens flare. It’s also a good idea to experiment with different angles and positions until you find the sweet spot.

Mistakes I Made

Over the years, I’ve made my share of mistakes, especially when it comes to lighting. One notable blunder occurred during a wedding shoot in Tiruvannamalai in January 2022. I had set my camera to shoot in manual mode but forgot to adjust my shutter speed when I moved from a shaded area into direct sunlight. The result? A series of overexposed images that left my clients and me disappointed.

What I learned? Always pay attention to your surroundings and be ready to adjust your settings as the light changes. It’s a simple tip, but it can save you from losing precious moments. Now, I always carry a notebook to jot down the settings I used for specific scenarios, which helps me refine my shooting technique over time.

Location Tips for Shooting in Chennai

Chennai has no shortage of beautiful locations for photography, but knowing when and where to shoot can make all the difference. Here are a few of my go-to spots:

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore

This temple is a treasure trove of vibrant colors and intricate architecture. However, it can get crowded, especially during festivals. I recommend shooting early in the morning or late in the evening. Parking is available nearby, but arrive early to secure a good spot. If you’re shooting a wedding or cultural event, be sure to check if you need permission from the temple authorities.

Marina Beach

As one of the longest beaches in the world, Marina offers various backdrops for your shoots. The best time to capture stunning images is during sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and golden. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. Parking can be tricky, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

Theosophical Society, Adyar

With its lush greenery and serene environment, this location is perfect for portraits. It’s relatively quiet, but be mindful of the society’s rules regarding photography. The best time to shoot is in the early morning when the light filters beautifully through the trees. Parking is available, but it’s limited, so planning ahead is essential.

Conclusion

Working with lighting in Chennai’s May sun can be a challenge, but with the right techniques, you can create beautiful images that truly capture the essence of your subjects. Whether you’re using natural light, reflectors, off-camera flash, light modifiers, or embracing sun flare, remember to adapt to the conditions and always be prepared to adjust your settings. Each shoot is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped my journey as a photographer.

About the Author

I’m Raghav, a professional photographer based in Chennai with over 8 years of experience in wedding, portrait, and travel photography across Tamil Nadu. My passion lies in capturing the essence of every moment, whether it’s a grand wedding or a quiet portrait session.