Portrait photography can often be a very tricky skill to master - you have to be aware of your subject’s surroundings, the lighting, what emotion you would like to capture? Will the composition of your photograph flatter your subject? Do you need to use a flash? The list goes on…This is why I have compiled a list of ten very simple steps to achieving a great portrait photograph whether you are a novice or a professional.
1. Firstly, check the background behind your subject(s) before taking your photograph – are there any poles, trees, plants etc. sprouting out from the top of their head? Is the background too cluttered? A background that is too busy will draw the attention away from your subject(s). A plain background will empthasise your subject. One fantastic way to create a plain backdrop and get that professional photography studio look is to simply peg up a black or white piece of material and position your subject in front of it (make sure your subject is not too close to the backdrop – otherwise you risk casting strong shadows behind them). A brilliant way to create a background for kids’ portraiture shots and to create a relaxed picture - is to photograph them propped up against a pile of large cushions!
2. Get down to your subject’s eye level – they do not have to look directly into the camera, but taking the photograph at eye level itself will create a personal & inviting feel. This is especially important when taking pictures of children and pets. If you take a photograph of your subject from too high a height – you risk capturing mainly their hair and making the top of their look massive & their body tiny! Equally, if you take a picture at too low a level, you stand the chance of making your subject look menacing and snooty!
3. Don’t be afraid to move in a little bit closer if you want – moving closer or zooming into your subjects face will eliminate any background distractions and create a more intimate image.
4. Remember you can use your camera’s flash outdoors. Sometimes in very sunny conditions – the face can often be in shade (especially if the sun is directly overhead). Use your camera’s flash to lighten the shadows that will form under your subject’s eyes and nose. On cloudy days – it will brighten up your subjects face & make them stand out from the background.
5. Whilst we are on the subject of flash photography - check your camera’s flash range (this can usually be found in the manufacturer’s instruction book). Some “point and click” cameras only have a flash range of 10 feet (or four steps away) – if your subject is too far away for the flash to reach them, they will be too dark.
6. What lighting is best for portrait photographs? Outdoor lighting is perfect for portrait photographs. The lighting should be as soft as possible to flatter your subject’s features. The light on a slightly cloudy day is ideal to create a diffuse look. Sometimes the soft light at the beginning and the end of the day can create some amazing colours in your picture, enhance your subject’s skin tone and soften the picture. You can easily make your own reflectors to bounce light onto your subject’s face at minimal or no cost – you can make full use of something as simple as a mirror positioned in front of a light source (for example a window) to bounce light onto the shady side of the face.
7. Red-eye can be a pesky critter and could ruin a good portrait photograph. It is caused by light entering the eye and reflecting off the subject’s retina, taking on the colour of surrounding blood vessels. The best way to eliminate red-eye is to take advantage of the red-eye reduction facility that most modern cameras have built in. This will cause the flash to go off twice – once before the photograph is taken to shrink the subject’s pupil, thus causing less light to enter the eye when the second flash burst goes off and the picture is taken. If your camera does not have this facility, another way to reduce red-eye is to ask your subject to look very slightly above or below the area where the flash fires from, therefore less light will reach the eye.
8. Do not be afraid to direct your subject(s). If you have a particular photograph in mind you may have to position your subject(s) where you want them. Natural, candid photographs can look amazing and really reflect the subject’s personality. But sometimes a more posed approach can be more controlled and flattering. Perhaps add some props or rearrange your subjects. If you have more than one person in the shot - move them closer together.
9. Does your subject always have to be in the middle of the frame? There might be something else interesting in the frame that could draw your eye up to your subject (for example. a railing, a fence or a road). Just make sure your subject is in focus though – most modern “point-and-click” cameras will focus on the central object. The best place to focus on in any portrait photograph is your subject’s eyes.
10. The most important element of any portrait photograph is to capture your subject’s true personality and emotions. Your photograph can capture the mood of the day or remind you of a story. Relaxed and un-forced facial expressions look more natural and create the best portrait photograph. Talk to your subject whilst you are taking the photograph – put them at ease – drag out your best joke and make them laugh!
