The Great Debate: Should You Photograph Your Project with Lights On or Off?

All Photos by Austin LaRue Baker

When photographing interiors the decision to capture the space with lights on or off can significantly impact the final image. This choice influences the mood, color balance, and overall aesthetic of the photograph. As a general rule, I photograph most projects with the lights off but I often adjust my methods to best fit the subject. Here, we delve into the reasons for shooting with lights on or off, providing insights that can enhance your architectural and interior photography.

If you are brand new to interiors photography this article linked below might be a better starting point for you!

Benefits of Shooting with Lights Off:

A wonderful Arizona historic home designed by Rilly Carpenter

Fully natural light image, designed by Cynthia Prizant.

Color Balance: Avoiding Mixed Lighting

One of the primary reasons to shoot with lights off is to avoid the color conflicts that arise from mixing natural and existing artificial light. Natural light typically has a cooler, almost blue hue, while incandescent lights emit a warm, yellowish orange glow. When these two light sources combine, they can create uneven color tones and make post-processing a challenge. By relying solely on natural light, you maintain a consistent color temperature, resulting in more harmonious and visually appealing images.

Directional Light:
Creating Soft and Moody Atmospheres

Natural light provides more directional and dynamic lighting, which can create a soft, moody, or dramatic look. This type of lighting can add depth and texture to your images by highlighting architectural details and the interplay of light and shadow. Layered lighting from lamps, accent lighting or gallery lighting can be beautiful, but ceiling lights or can lights often produce flat and harsh light that lacks character. Shooting with lights off allows you to capture the natural shadows and highlights that give a space its unique personality.

Design by James McIntyre

Editorial and Brand Requirements:

Meeting Publication Standards and following Hospitality and brand guidlines.

Many editorial publications prefer images of spaces with the lights off. This preference is often due to the cleaner, more consistent, and natural look achieved by using only ambient daylight. When aiming for an editorial aesthetic, photographing with the lights off can help you meet the high standards required by top architectural magazines and design blogs. On the other hand, many hospitality clients follow set brand guidelines that typically require the lights to be on. If you are looking to become a hospitality photographer, you will need to adjust your shooting methods to accommodate these brand guidelines.

Benefits of Shooting with Lights On:

Photo of a Villa at the Hilton Miraval Resort

Highlighting Lighting Design:
Showcasing Fixtures and Effects

When a space is meticulously designed with impressive lighting fixtures and effects, it can be essential to showcase these elements by photographing with the lights on. This approach highlights the creativity and functionality of the lighting design, demonstrating how light emitted from the fixtures enhances the space. Whether it’s a statement chandelier, under-cabinet lighting, or accent lights, capturing these features can add an extra layer of interest to your images. However, intricate chandeliers might still benefit from a lights-off approach, as their finer details can often be obscured or harder to see when backlit by bright lights.

Design by Busted2bangin

Creating a Warmer Look:
Enhancing Comfort and Ambiance

Artificial lighting can create a warmer and more inviting atmosphere. This is particularly beneficial in residential spaces or commercial interiors where a cozy and welcoming feel is desired. Warm lighting can evoke feelings of comfort and hospitality, making the space appear more lived-in and appealing.

Design by Busted2Bangin

Twilight Interiors and Exteriors: Balancing Natural and Artificial Light

Photo of Miraval resort villa

Twilight photography, often referred to as the “blue hour,” involves capturing spaces just after sunset or just before sunrise. During this time, the minimal natural light creates a beautiful backdrop for artificial lighting to shine. This technique can highlight architectural features and add a magical, ethereal quality to your photos.

Typically, most photographers focus on exterior shots during the blue hour but it's always worth considering whether an interior photograph might be more beneficial to the project. Given the short duration of the blue hour, you usually need to prioritize either an interior or exterior twilight image, as there's often not enough time to capture both.

Illuminating Low-Light Rooms:
Enhancing Visibility and Detail

Some rooms, such as powder rooms, basements, or interior spaces without windows, lack sufficient natural light. In these scenarios, photographing with lights on is essential to ensure the space is well-lit and details are visible. Artificial lighting can compensate for the absence of natural light, allowing you to capture the full essence of the room. 

Designed by PHX Architecture and Kim Scodro

Conclusion

Deciding whether to photograph a space with lights on or off depends on the specific characteristics and desired outcome of the shoot. Understanding the nuances of natural and existing artificial lighting allows you to make informed choices that enhance the beauty and functionality of the space. Whether you're aiming for a soft, moody look or highlighting intricate lighting designs of an epic hospitality project., knowing when to use lights on or off is a crucial skill for every architectural and interior photographer.

All photos by Austin LaRue Baker

Want to learn what focal length to use for interiors photography? Check out the article linked below!