How can I photograph visible sun rays in a forest or through a window?
Asked 1/13/2016
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I can often see sunbeams in a forest or light rays coming through a window with my eyes, but they are difficult to capture clearly with a DSLR. I’ve heard that fog, dust, snow, or smoke can help make the rays visible, but what can I do if there isn’t much in the air? Are there any shooting or exposure tips for making the beams stand out?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
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I've tried to capture the rays of light in the forest many times, and have largely only had middling success. Eventually, however, I realized that the problem is one of contrast. The contrast between the dark forest and the bright light is what makes these scenes interesting. The solution is to increase the contrast between the rays of light and the surrounding forest.
This is the place where I've experimented with HDR and have had pretty good success. More typically, however, I simply apply a more aggressive tone curve to the photo when post-processing -- again, with the intent of brightening the ray of light and darkening the surrounding forest.
Originally by user8473. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8473
10y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Light rays are easiest to photograph when there’s something in the air to scatter the light—fog, dust, smoke, snow, etc. If the air is very clear, the beams may be faint or impossible to record strongly even if your eyes notice them.
What helps most is maximizing contrast between the rays and the surroundings:
- Use a dark background when possible.
- For window light, make the beam the main or only light source.
- Move your position slightly; the angle can make the rays stronger or weaker.
- Bracket exposures and choose the frame that best preserves the bright beams while keeping the surroundings dark enough.
- Shoot RAW so you can adjust contrast more effectively afterward.
In post-processing, increase contrast selectively or use a stronger tone curve to brighten the rays and darken the surrounding area. Be careful not to blow highlights or crush shadows completely.
If you’re indoors and it’s safe/appropriate, adding a little smoke or incense can make the beams much more visible. In forests, thicker mist or fog often makes the biggest difference.
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