Meg Bitton is an accomplished professional photographer specializing in exquisite family photography that makes the most of natural light. A doting mother of three, Meg’s signature style shines through each of her uniquely stunning images. Below are 8 of her best tips for making the most of a shoot in natural light:

Do: Seek “pockets” of light.

Photographing your subjects where the light meets the shadows will add beauty and depth to your shot that you just can’t capture in flat light. Seek an area where the light shines in and is dark around the edges.

Do: Look for directional lighting.

Take advantage of side lighting, which adds texture and drama with breathtaking results. Side, low light is beautiful.

Do: Avoid dappled light.

Irregular shadows caused by tree branches or other obstacles blocking the light can cause patches of shadows to appear on your subjects and illuminated areas to be highlighted excessively. Avoid this distraction in the final product by ensuring your subject is in an area where the light is consistent.

Do: Place your subject on a lighter ground, when the opportunity is available.

The lighter surface will serve as a natural reflector, bringing out color from the shadows cast by sunlight.

Don’t: Photograph in high sun surrounded by green.

Although a light, neutral surface will serve as a beautiful, natural reflector for your shot, the reflection of green grass onto skin adds an unnatural, undesirable aspect to the shadows on skin. If you find yourself surrounded by green on a sunny afternoon, seek out a shady spot.

Don’t: Photograph in flat light.

Try more dimensional light to add depth and definition to facial features.

Don’t: Place your subjects directly next to bright colors.

Remember how green grass in high natural light casts green tones onto the skin? The same thing happens when your subjects are directly next to vibrant colors in a photograph. Capture their true skin tone by avoiding close proximity to brightly colored objects or clothing.

Don’t: Forget to enjoy yourself and to learn from your mistakes.

If it doesn’t look magical the first time, go out and try again!