6 Potrait Photography Shooting Tips For Killer Results
Potrait photography is our thing!
Are you tired of taking lame photos that look like they belong on your grandma's fridge? Do you flip through magazines and wonder how photographers capture portraits that look professionally done?
Well, today I'm spilling all my secrets for taking absolutely breathtaking portraits that will make your friends think you're the next Annie Leibovitz.
#1 Gear Up For Greatness
Before we dive in, you need the right tools. An expensive new camera won't automatically make you a pro, but having the right capabilities gives you creative control.
Start with a DSLR or mirrorless camera - something like a Canon Rebel or Sony A6000. Then grab a fast prime lens around 50-85mm. This combo gives you that soft dreamy background blur.
Lighting is crucial! Add a basic flash like the Canon Speedlite 430EX. It sculpts beautiful light on your subject's face. Reflectors and diffusers are must-have accessories too.
Don't forget small stuff like remote triggers for catching candid moments. And a sturdy tripod lets you get crystal clear shots every time.
Invest in some key photography gear so you can take the portraits you envision.
#2 Hunt For Gorgeous Light
Light can make or break a portrait. The best times to shoot are at sunrise or sunset when light is soft and warm. Position your subject to sculpt their face with light and shadow. Side lighting adds drama while front lighting imparts a flattering glow.
Seek open shade on bright days - like the soft light under a tree. It's perfect for vibrant skin and avoiding harsh shadows.
Right before sunset is the magic "golden hour." This light gives photos an ethereal radiance. Mix in sunlit backdrops for eye-catching contrast.
Even overcast days work! The soft even light is ideal for close ups. Add a reflector to bounce some pleasing light onto your subject's face.
Learn to recognize beautiful light, and your photos will shine.
#3 Photograph In Interesting Locations
Portrait backgrounds matter - so ditch the boring studio! Urban alleys, lonely beaches, secret forest trails - evocative locations infuse context and flair. Do some scouting to discover inspiring backdrops.
Look for colorful walls, cool textures, and reflective surfaces to amp up visual interest. Architecture and cityscapes make striking environmental portraits.
Always check the light at potential locations at your planned shoot time. Don't let a breathtaking scene go to waste due to bad lighting!
With an artistic location, your portraits will pull viewers in and tell a story.
#4 Direct With Finesse
To get truly incredible shots, your subject needs to feel comfortable and engaged. Time to direct!
First, discuss your vision with them. Go over poses, expressions, and the overall mood you want. This prevents awkwardness later.
When shooting, stay positive and encouraging. Give sincere praise and concise guidance on little adjustments.
Keep it light! Chat and joke around so they feel relaxed being themselves. The goal is to draw out their authentic personality.
Your confidence and warmth will inspire natural, outstanding portraits.
#5 Retouch
Post-processing puts on the finishing touches. Start by color correcting for accurate skin tones and balanced lighting. Dodge and burn to sculpt flattering highlights and shadows.
Subtly minimize blemishes and imperfections - you still want a natural look.
Add a vignette to draw the eye to your subject. Try black and white or split toning for moody flair. You can isolate and convert only parts of an image.
Sharpen eyes and important facial features carefully. Pay extra attention to making teeth and eyes pop.
Finessing all the little details takes your portraits from great to incredible!
#6 Shoot For Emotion
Above all, extraordinary portraits capture mystery, emotion, and a person's essence. Technical skills only go so far.
Study your subject through the lens. Look for moments of authentic feeling to snap the shot. A fleeting unguarded smile or faraway gaze creates a moving photograph.
Take hundreds of frames to increase the odds of catching that split second of magic. Keep engaging your subject to hit that jackpot image.
When reviewing, isolate shots with palpable emotion that draw the viewer in. Let creative instincts guide you in crafting an image that captures their spirit.
Portraiture is art. Master the technicals, but ultimately follow your heart.
