Photos / Moody self-portraits with window light
Guide
Moody self-portraits with window light
By Con, founder of Music Wide Selfie · Updated 22 October 2026
Short answerTurn off the room lights, stand side-on to one window so half your face is lit, put the phone on a stand facing you, and tap the bright side of your face so the shadows stay deep.
The setup
- Room lights off.
- Stand side-on to the window, a metre or so away.
- Phone on a stand, timer or remote.
- Tap the lit side of your face to set exposure.
Variations
- Face the window for soft, even light.
- Turn away for a silhouette.
- Sheer curtains soften the light.
Black and white
Window light self-portraits often look great in mono. Try it in Photos edit.
Questions
Best time of day?
Any time the window doesn’t get direct harsh sun. Overcast days are ideal.
About Music Wide Selfie
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