The First Frame

Light & Exposure

8 guides

Learn what exposure compensation is, how to find the +/- control on your camera, and when to dial it up or down for better-exposed photos.

Golden hour photography explained for beginners: when it happens, how to plan for it, and the exact settings to use when you get there.

Learn flash photography for beginners: TTL, bounce flash, fill flash, and a settings cheat-sheet to get natural-looking light fast.

Learn what separates hard light from soft light, why source size is the key factor, and when to use each for better photos.

Learn backlight photography from scratch: how to expose for silhouettes, position your subject, and get clean edges every time.

Learn how to use window light for beautiful indoor natural light photography, from soft side-lit portraits to tricky backlight setups.

Shooting in harsh sunlight doesn't have to ruin your shots. Learn practical midday sun photography strategies any beginner can use today.

Learn how to read a histogram in photography to nail exposure every time, even when your camera's rear screen lies to you.