A portrait photograph should always capture the essence and the emotion of the person or group being photographed. Portraits range from children and babies, to a bride on her wedding day, to an important CEO of a major company. The photographer’s job is to harness the subject’s personality and make sure it shines through in the portrait.
Professional photographers know how to capture a mood, but even the most seasoned photographers will tell you that a portrait will not turn out as expected if the subject is not relaxed. If he or she is feeling uncomfortable or is posing in a way that seems too unnatural, the photographer will not be able to capture the true nature of their personality. Making the portrait subjects as comfortable as possible will ensure the photographs turn out natural and not appear overly staged.
It is important for the photographer to develop a friendly relationship with the subject. This helps the person or group being photographed feel at ease with the photographer and will be open to his or her suggestions. A photographer should be conversational and able to engage the subject in friendly discussion. When the portrait subject relaxes, the photographer will have a better chance at capturing a natural, uninhibited moment.
Many people think of a portrait photograph as a seated individual looking straight at the camera. But not all portrait photographs can be done this way. Candid portraits are often the most appealing, as they tend to capture the fundamental nature of the subject. Wedding portraits are often done with groups of people, but many times you will notice the photographs with the most personality are those that were taken when the subjects were engaged in conversation or not aware that a photo was being taken. A photographer may use this technique when taking individual studio portraits, as well. Often times, the best portraits can be achieved when engaging your subject in light conversation and snapping photos when the subject is no longer thinking about the camera.
A portrait photographers also must think about lighting. Portraits are usually softly lit, without harsh shadows or dark lines being cast. A good location for outdoor portraits is essential, as the bright sunlight may cause the subject to squint or cast shadows that will seem unflattering. Depending on the flash that the photographer uses, he or she can fill darker spaces with light, providing a fuller, more detailed portrait.
With today’s photographic technology, a portrait can be improved by enhancing colors and easily creating vignettes and mattes. Skin blemishes, facial wrinkles and background distractions can be removed with photo editing software. Portrait photographers can present their subject with hundreds of digital photographs that capture their true essence, and because these photos are digital, no film is wasted and the cost is significantly less than if the photographer used a film camera. Thephotographer will take a lot of shots per session and, if they follow these tips, will have many good portraits for printing.
