How I Used Natural Light in My July Chennai Portraits

By Raghav | | July 3, 2026

How I Used Natural Light in My July Chennai Portraits

On a humid afternoon in July 2021, I found myself at the serene shores of Besant Nagar Beach, waiting for my client, Anjali, to arrive for her portrait session. The sun was high, casting harsh shadows and creating stark contrasts that challenged my usual shooting style. I knew this would be a test of my ability to harness natural light creatively. As the waves lapped at the shore, I mentally prepared myself to use the sun to my advantage, which turned out to be a game changer for my portraits.

The Power of Natural Light

Over the last eight years as a professional photographer in Chennai, I’ve learned that natural light can be both a friend and a foe. My experience has taught me that the time of day and the weather can dramatically influence the outcome of an image. For instance, during a pre-wedding shoot in Mahabalipuram last December, I made the mistake of shooting during the harsh noon sun. The results were lackluster, leading to disappointing images for my clients. But on that day at Besant Nagar, I was determined to adapt.

Understanding the Golden Hour

The golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset, is one of the best times for portrait photography. I’ve experienced the magic of this time in various locations around Chennai, like during a couple’s shoot at the serene Santhome Church. The soft, diffused light during this hour not only enhances skin tones but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere in the images. In fact, in my experience across 200+ shoots, I’ve found that clients often prefer the look of images taken in this natural light.

Choosing the Right Location

On that July day, I had chosen Besant Nagar Beach for its unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant local culture. The beach is also a fantastic location for catching the golden hour light, especially when the sun begins to set over the horizon. However, it’s essential to plan your shoot wisely. Parking can be a hassle during peak hours, so I recommend arriving early to secure a good spot. Additionally, it’s good to scout the area beforehand to find the best angles and backgrounds.

Capturing the Essence of My Clients

Another memorable shoot that exemplifies the use of natural light occurred in March 2022 with a couple, Ravi and Priya, at the lush landscapes of the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. The dappled sunlight filtering through the trees provided a soft, romantic glow that complemented their playful energy. Using my Canon EOS R5, I set my aperture to f/2.8 to achieve a shallow depth of field, beautifully isolating them from the busy background while maintaining a sense of place.

Using Reflectors

While natural light is powerful, sometimes it needs a little help. During the same shoot at the zoo, I used a simple 5-in-1 collapsible reflector to bounce light onto Ravi and Priya’s faces. This technique allows you to fill in shadows and create a more balanced exposure. I’ve found that a gold reflector during sunset adds a lovely warmth to the skin tones, making the subjects glow. For this shoot, my camera settings were ISO 200, shutter speed 1/250s, and aperture f/2.8. The results were stunning and deeply appreciated by the couple.

Mistakes I Made

Reflecting on my journey as a photographer, I can pinpoint several mistakes that have shaped my approach to natural light. One significant misstep occurred during a family portrait session at the Botanical Gardens in Chennai in 2020. I assumed the diffused light on a cloudy day would give me the perfect conditions; however, the overcast sky flattened the colors and made the images look dull.

What I learned from this experience was crucial: always pay attention to the quality of light, even on cloudy days. I’ve since started using a flash or a reflector even in these conditions to add warmth and depth to my images. Understanding how to manipulate and adapt to different lighting situations has been pivotal in evolving my photography skills.

A Location Guide for Portrait Shoots in Chennai

Now that you have a glimpse into my experiences, let’s dive into some specific locations around Chennai that are perfect for portrait photography, especially when utilizing natural light.

1. Besant Nagar Beach

This beach is an excellent choice for golden hour shoots. The sand provides a beautiful neutral background, and the ocean adds dynamic elements to your shots. Arrive early to avoid crowds, and try to find spots where the waves create interesting patterns. The parking area can fill up quickly, so aim to be there at least an hour before sunset.

2. Theosophical Society

With its sprawling gardens and ancient trees, the Theosophical Society in Adyar is another gem for portrait photography. The soft, filtered light through the foliage creates enchanting images. However, you’ll need permission to shoot here, so make sure to contact the administration beforehand. The best time is early morning when the light is soft and the park is less crowded.

3. Santhome Church

Santhome Church offers a unique backdrop with its stunning architecture. The golden hour casts beautiful shadows and highlights on the church’s façade. Parking is generally available, but it can get busy during weekends. I recommend visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.

Final Thoughts on Natural Light

Embracing natural light in portrait photography has transformed my work and allowed me to create more authentic images. Each shoot teaches me something valuable about the nuances of light and how it interacts with my subjects. Whether it’s utilizing reflectors, understanding the golden hour, or choosing the right location, the key is to stay adaptable and creative. As I continue my journey as a photographer in Chennai, I look forward to exploring new ways to harness natural light in my work.

As a professional photographer based in Chennai with over eight years of experience, I specialize in wedding, portrait, and travel photography. My journey has taken me across Tamil Nadu, capturing the essence of life and love through my lens.