The Core Tip: Look for Gradual Transitions (Soft Shadows)
The key to spotting good light for portraits is to look for areas where the light transitions *smoothly* from bright to dark. We want soft shadows, not harsh lines.
Here's the breakdown:
1. What to Avoid (Harsh Light):
* Direct Sunlight: This is usually *not* your friend. It creates deep, harsh shadows and squinting. Unless you *specifically* know how to work with it, steer clear. Think about the middle of the day in full sun.
* Direct Flash (on-camera): Similar to direct sunlight, it's usually flat and unflattering.
2. What to Look For (Soft Light):
* Overcast Days: Overcast days are a photographer's best friend. The clouds act like a giant softbox, scattering the light and making everything look more even and pleasing. No harsh shadows!
* Open Shade: This is the holy grail when the sun *is* out. Imagine your subject standing in the shade of a building, but still facing an open area (not a dark alley). The light is diffused, creating soft shadows.
* Window Light: Place your subject near a window, but not *directly* in the sunlight streaming through it. The light filtering through the window becomes soft and beautiful. Bonus: If the window has a sheer curtain, that softens the light even further.
3. How to Train Your Eye:
* Look at the Shadows: Instead of focusing on the bright areas, pay attention to the shadows on your subject's face. Are they dark and sharply defined (bad)? Or are they soft and gradual (good)?
* Practice: The best way to learn is to experiment. Take photos in different lighting conditions and compare the results. You'll quickly start to develop an eye for good light. Even just observing how light falls on objects around you will help.
Example Scenario:
Imagine you're taking a portrait outdoors on a sunny day.
* Bad: Your subject is standing in direct sunlight. Their face is half-bright, half-dark, and they're squinting.
* Good: Move your subject to the shade of a tree (but not a dense, dark forest). The light on their face will be much more even and flattering.
In summary:
* Avoid: Direct sunlight and direct flash.
* Seek: Overcast days, open shade, and soft window light.
* Focus: Look for soft, gradual transitions in the shadows.
* Practice: Experiment and observe the light around you.
This is just a starting point, but it should give you a solid foundation for understanding and working with light in portrait photography. Good luck!