SUMMARY

Colored surfaces near a subject can introduce unwanted color casts into natural light portraits, affecting skin tones. Photographer Omar Gonzalez tested four locations with different colored surroundings, showing how yellow walls, greenery, and brick can skew results. He recommends using a gray card for color reference and a reflector to block problematic bounce light. Adding a neutral daylight source, like an LED light, can also overpower color casts and restore consistent skin tones.

TAKEAWAYS

Colored walls, grass, and brick can cast unwanted colors onto subjects in natural light portraits.

A gray card provides a reliable color reference for editing.

Reflectors can block problematic bounce light and provide neutral fill.

Adding a neutral daylight source can overpower color casts and ensure consistent skin tones.

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