Portrait photography can range from stark black and white images to beautiful images with blurred backgrounds. It all depends on the photographer’s ability to use the camera effectively, their understanding of the subject, and their creativity to combine these elements in new ways.
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- What Is Portrait Photography?
- 8 Portrait Photography Tips
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What is Portrait Photography?
Portrait photography is a type of photography that depicts human subjects. Portrait photography has existed since the inception of photography. In 1839, Louis Daguerre invented a daguerreotype. Robert Cornelius took the first ever self-portrait photograph.
8 Portrait Photography Tips
You can manipulate different elements of your photo compositions with a DSLR or mirrorless digital camera. You can alter the ISO, exposure compensation, and shutter speed to adjust how the light is distributed to your portraits. To increase the focus on the model’s face and blur distracting backgrounds, adjust the depth of field. You can also use a wide angle lens to get a deeper portrait.
Here are some photography techniques that can enhance your photos and make your portraits great.
- Diffuse your light source. For portraits, soft, diffused light from an indirect source is the best. Contrary to popular belief, direct sunlight or full sun can create unwanted shadows and unnatural colors. To soften the light and create a flattering effect, use a diffuser such as a soft box or a white sheet.
- Use a longer lens. A 50mm lens is a mid-range telephoto lens and is the standard length that portrait photographers prefer to use. This length can create a familiar but not extraordinary scene. To achieve better image compression and minimize distortion, use a longer lens (e.g., one between 85mm and 200mm). A longer focal length can help bring your background closer and create a dynamic image.
- Choose a different position. Breaking the rule of thirds can give your photos a new perspective. Try shooting from angles not so well-composed or at the subject’s eye level. You can take shots from different angles and distances around the model. Try shooting from an aerial or side view. You can also change the poses of your model or take candid shots to find the best angle.
- Create your own lighting. Although the camera flash provides light for your photos, it is not always sufficient. A flash can cause a subject’s face to look disproportionate and washed out, especially when used in close-up headshots. Off-camera flash can be used to adjust the lighting conditions and enhance contrast in portraits. This will make them more dynamic and visually appealing. Direct sunlight can sometimes make outdoor portrait photography difficult. However, natural light is great for outdoor photos. External strobe lighting can be used to reduce the light available, or you can create the perfect shot by using your own lighting.
- Change the aperture. Wide apertures will create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and making your subject stand out. If you have multiple subjects (e.g., a family portrait), a smaller aperture is better to keep them all in focus.
- Use props. For a dynamic effect, shoot through the objects in your foreground, such as architecture or foliage, to add more energy to your shot. You can blur objects in the foreground, allowing you to focus on your subject. This adds an artistic element to your shot. Clear objects can create unique reflections or patterns, and a fence or other barrier can give you interesting framing. For a dynamic composition, capture your subject through store windows and between branches.
- Use gels. Gels can be used to alter the mood and color temperature of portraits. You may need to adjust the light temperature if your photo shoot produces unnatural skin tones and odd color casts. To make the shooting environment more pleasant, you can use a color temperature orange gel (CTO). To cool down your images, you can apply a color-temperature blue (CTB) gel to cool them. You can choose the type of shot that you want and adjust the temperature accordingly.
- Finalize editing and post-processing. Editing software can help give your photo a perfect look. You can use editing software to enhance your portrait photography.
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