Many people spend money on professional portraits only to find they aren't appealing. They wonder where they went wrong and may blame the photographer. However, the subject plays a role in the photoshoot's success. The following tips will help take portraits to the next level.
The Subject is the Key
When having a portrait taken, the individual or
individuals need to be the focus of the photos. They need to feel comfortable
in front of the camera, and the photographer can help with this. An excellent
photographer connects with clients before taking any photos and gets to know
them. The photographer needs to learn what the subjects are looking for in the
photos. Why are they having this shoot? The subject should listen to the
photographer, as they take these photos routinely and know what works and what
doesn't. However, the subjects' preferences should be taken into consideration
during the shoot.
The Right Backdrop
Portrait
photography calls for an uncluttered background. The backdrop shouldn't compete
with the subject for the viewer's attention. However, an interesting background
can actually draw attention to the subject. Experiment with different backdrops
to find the appropriate one for each shot. In addition, consider blurring the
background. This will add interest to the photo.
Ask
the photographer to blur the background in one shot and then leave it clear in
the next. Compare the two shots to see which provides the better image. Thanks
to digital photography, the subject can often see the pictures as soon as they
are taken. The photographer may tweak the photos in the darkroom, but the
subject has a good understanding of how they will turn out.
Capture Expressions
A
person's expressions help to distinguish them from other people. It can be
challenging to get a person to relax and show their true self in photos, but an
experienced photographer knows how to do so easily. Fake smiles and blank looks
detract from the photo, so consider getting some candid shots. It often takes
time for the subject to loosen up, but an excellent photographer won't give up.
They will keep taking photos until they get one with a real smile or capture
the sparkle in the person's eye. A
Another
great way to capture a personality is to focus on a detail that is unique to
them, such as an item associated with
their hobby. Take candid photos as they engage in this hobby to get a picture that
truly reflects who they are.
Choose a Color Palette
Select
complementary colors for a photo shoot. Doing so helps to increase the impact
of the shots. People often coordinate their clothing for group shots, but the
color palette extends beyond this. The background and props should also be in
the same color scheme, and the photographer should consider the skin complexion
of the various subjects.
Most
family photos have everyone dressed in warm colors, while business photos often
have everyone dressed in grays and dark blues. Talk with the photographer to
come up with a color palette that is acceptable to all, and ensure all subjects
know what colors should wear.
Alter the Lighting
When
taking photos outdoors, a person must take into consideration natural lighting.
For example, when taking photos of a person in front of a field of flowers, the
photographer needs to ensure the sun will be in front of the person rather than
behind. This allows them to be clearly seen without taking away from the impact
of the field of flowers as a backdrop. When the light is behind the person,
they will appear dark in the photo. If the light is off to one side, half of
the person will be in the light and the other half in the shadows. Consider
this when taking indoor photos and choose the appropriate lighting setup for
amazing pictures.
Choose the Right Pose
Have
the subject tilt their head to show their best side. It may take time to figure
out which is the best side, but the photos show the time spent is worth it in
the end. They should also face the camera at a
45-degree angle, as this makes them look slimmer and highlights their
natural curves. When photographing couples, it's best to have the parties
looking at each other and mirroring their poses.
Experiment with Different Angles
People
often stand in front of the subject to take photos. Consider taking the photos
from below eye level for a fresh look. Another option involves standing on a
step stool or ladder to take photos from above the subject. This makes for
interesting photos that stand out in the crowd. While shooting at eye level
makes the eyes of the subject the central part of the photo, a photographer
should try other angles to see what interesting images they get.
In
addition, changing the angle can change the appearance of the person. For
example, one angle may make them look heavier while another makes them look
slimmer. Finish the session by tilting the camera, as this can produce
interesting shots as well.
Incorporate Props
Use
props to create interesting photos. The props can bring color, excitement, and
impact to the pictures. In fact, adding props can change the nature of the
pictures. A photographer may even create a signature style when they add props
to their photos, depending on the items selected.
One
way to use props is to put them in an unexpected place in the photo. For
instance, have the subject sit on a suitcase rather than carrying it when the
photo is of them embarking on a journey. Allow the props to help tell a story
rather than serving as an afterthought simply positioned in the background.
Try
different techniques when taking photos or working with a professional
photographer. Speak up when something doesn't seem right. The goal is to create
amazing photos that will be treasured in the coming years. With time and effort
by the photographer and the subjects, capturing these photos becomes easier.
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