The complete lighting guide: turn your selfie into the perfect source
2 min read
When a portrait does not quite convince, it is almost always down to the light in the source image. snaptosuit can get an astonishing amount out of a well-lit selfie, but it cannot invent light that is not present in the original. So it is worth investing a few minutes in the lighting before you press the shutter. The difference between a mediocre and a very good result is usually decided right here.
The goal is even, soft light that falls on your face from the front. Soft light means no hard edges and deep shadows form. The easiest way to achieve this is with daylight. Face a window, ideally on a bright but not sun-flooded day. The window then becomes a large, gentle light source that lights your face evenly.
The most common lighting mistakes and how to avoid them
The classic mistake is backlight. If a bright light source is behind you, such as a window at your back, your face goes dark and the camera struggles to capture detail. In that case simply turn around so the light comes from the front. Direct, hard sunlight from the side is just as problematic. It creates strong shadows on one half of the face and makes the skin look blotchy. Instead, find a shady spot outdoors or go to a window with indirect light.
Artificial light can work too, if you keep a few things in mind. Ceiling lamps directly above you cast unflattering shadows under the eyes and nose. Better is a light source roughly at eye level, for example a desk lamp aimed at a bright wall so the light is reflected softly. Avoid mixed light from warm and cold sources, because the skin tone then shifts unnaturally.
When you photograph for a team
If many people are taking a selfie, a short, clear instruction helps more than any technical explanation. Ask everyone to stand by a window, hold the phone at eye level and check once for even light on the face. These three points are enough to raise the hit rate noticeably. The more similar the lighting of the individual selfies, the more consistent the whole team looks in the end.
Related articles
Better selfies, better portraits: the complete guide
With the right source image the result gets noticeably better.
Editing portraits in the editor
Fine-tuning right in the browser, with no separate program.
Glasses, beards, headscarves and other tricky cases
How to get a natural portrait even with glasses, headwear or distinctive features.