FINDING THE LIGHT🌟

— INSPIRED & INFORMED

the magic of catch light


When you look at a portrait, what’s the first thing that draws your attention? Maybe it’s the subject’s expression, their pose, or even the way the light falls across their face. But there’s something else—something subtler—that often makes the difference between a good photograph and a truly captivating one. It’s the magic in their eyes, the tiny glimmer that can turn an ordinary moment into something extraordinary. This is what we photographers call “catch light.”


Catch light is the small, almost imperceptible reflection of light in a subject's eyes. It’s that glimmer that gives life to a photo, a little sparkle that seems to breathe energy into the image. Without it, a portrait can feel flat—like something’s missing; the eyes may look vacant, distant, or disconnected. But when catch light is present, it creates warmth, intimacy, and that feeling of connection with the viewer. It’s what makes a portrait feel alive.


As a photographer, I’m always looking for the perfect catch light, the light that brings depth and emotion to every shot. It’s one of the first things I check when composing a portrait. And while finding great light is essential—whether it's a soft natural glow or the dynamic shine of a studio setup—it’s not the only light I’m after. Yes, light is our ally in photography; it illuminates our subject, highlights features, and creates mood. But the light I truly care about is the light that comes from within you.

the light within: beyond the surface.


So, what does that mean? When I talk about the light inside of you, I’m referring to something deeper than just your physical appearance. It’s your confidence, your joy, your vulnerability—your authentic self. That spark that lives inside you, and often just needs a little encouragement to shine through.


Every person has this inner light, but it can sometimes be hidden. It might be buried beneath self-doubt, past experiences, or even just the chaos of daily life. And sometimes, it’s not as easy to find as the perfect spot under golden hour sun or the ideal lighting setup.


As a photographer, my job isn’t just to take a beautiful picture. It’s to help you uncover that light, to bring out the parts of you that are real, unguarded, and beautiful in their rawness. It’s not just about posing perfectly or smiling at the right moment. It’s about capturing the essence of who you are. When you’re fully present, when you allow yourself to feel seen, that’s when the magic happens. That’s when the catch light isn’t just in your eyes—it’s in your whole being.

FINDING YOUR LIGHt


Finding this inner light isn’t always an easy process. We live in a world that constantly tells us to hide behind filters or to present a version of ourselves that is “better,” more curated, or more polished. But true beauty, true connection, comes from allowing ourselves to be real. Your smile then becomes an outward projection of an inner realization - that YOU WERE BORN TO BE THE LIGHT.


Here are a few ways you can start to connect with and shine that inner light before stepping in front of the camera:


  1. Embrace Vulnerability: Don’t be afraid to show the parts of you that are imperfect. Vulnerability creates the space for real connection to happen. When you let your guard down, you’ll find that your true beauty shines through.
  2. Find Joy in the Moment: Photography is not just about posing or looking a certain way—it’s about being in the moment. Whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection or a spontaneous burst of laughter, joy is contagious. When you let yourself enjoy the process, your light will naturally come through.
  3. Trust the Process: Sometimes, we can be our own worst critics, but trust that you are enough exactly as you are. Allow yourself to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin, knowing that the camera will capture your true essence.
  4. Focus on the Connection, Not Perfection: Perfectly poised photos are beautiful, but they can also feel stiff and artificial. True beauty happens when you focus on the connection between you and the camera (or the person behind it). That’s when the light inside you really shine.

THE ART OF CAPTURING YOUR LIGHT


Once you’ve tapped into that light within, the real magic begins. Photography then becomes less about angles, lighting setups, or filters, and more about the story behind the image. When you allow your inner light to guide you, the camera simply becomes a tool for telling your story — not creating it.


As a photographer, my focus isn’t on capturing a “perfect” shot. It’s about helping you uncover that spark and energy within, creating an environment where you can fully express yourself. I’m here to make you feel comfortable, confident, and seen—so that I can capture the essence of who you truly are.

AT LATOYA RENEE PHOTOGRAPHY


Photography is about more than just the final image—it’s about the connection and the energy shared between photographer and subject. When YOU find your inner light, it transforms not just the photograph but the entire experience of being seen... which you deserve to be.


I’m not just here to create your portraits. I’m here to help you find that spark, that inner glow, and capture it in a way that reflects your uniqueness. Let’s uncover, re-discover, and spread your light, together!

SHINE your INNER LIGHT

"true beauty, true connection, comes from allowing ourselves to be real."