The first exposure is taken by using the camera's meter. This can be done on any setting if your camera is equipped with an exposure compensation dial. Otherwise it must be done on manual mode. Bracketing is the single most important thing you can do to ensure proper exposures under difficult lighting conditions. Direction of light can be determined by the shadows cast by objects the light is falling on.
Shadows always lie away from the light's origin.
Side lighting on your subject emphasizes its shape and can make it much more appealing. Early morning and evening most often provide the best light for outdoor shooting. Backlighting can also be an effective way to emphasize your subject. Midday is not conducive to creating stunning images. The light cast by the sun at this time of day is flat and casts no shadows because it is directly overhead.