Portrait Photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of a person.
As a photographer, my ultimate goal is to bring out the personality of my subjects in every portrait I take. From street to sports, I am looking to capture what isn't said, but specifically with portraits, be they individual or family, it is my job to show what makes the people so unique and beautiful.
I believe that a portrait should not just be a mere depiction of one’s physical appearance but a reflection of their character and individuality. That’s why I’ve decided to write up a "5 tips" article to help all my fellow photographers out there capture the essence of their portraits.
Whether we're talking iPhone photos or parents taking pictures of their kids, these "rules" apply, so take note and test them out.
1. Get to know your subject.
As a portrait photographer, your job is not just to click a button but to connect with your subject. There's a reason I ask 100 questions and spend at least a few minutes getting to know where their head is before the shoot.
Ask your model(s) about their interests, their story, and what they want to convey in the portrait. This personal connection will bring out their true personality and help you capture it in the photo; it's difficult to get "the shot", when you don't know who it is you're taking photos of.
Everyone is unique, and that is the beauty you must frame.
2. Body language is everything.
A subject’s body language can tell a lot about their personality.
As a photographer, it’s important to study and observe your subject’s body language and use it to bring out their true character.
Encourage them to relax, to be themselves, and to capture their natural movements and expressions. Whether it’s a shy smile or a confident stance, these subtle gestures can make a huge difference in the final portrait.
Again, to the unique nature of people, not everyone should be standing just alike; people should pose in a way that is themselves, along with guidance from you on what best conveys their natural preference.
3. Lighting is key.
The lighting in a portrait can change the whole mood and feel of the photo.
Natural light is the best option for capturing the essence of a person. As humans, we're solar-powered creatures. The sun is our friend, and it not only brings out the true colors and features of the subject but it also adds a soft and organic feel to the portrait.
Experiment with different lighting techniques and find what works best for your model and the desired mood of the portrait.
Your job is to pay attention to light, shadows, and what is/is not being shown.
4. Choose the right location.
The location of the photoshoot can also play a vital role in capturing the essence of a person.
One of the first questions I ask when planning a session is, "What vibe are we going for?" once I know that, I know if we're meant to be near buildings, water, woods, or a studio.
A subject’s surroundings can say a lot about them and add depth and dimension to the portrait, so choose a location that reflects your subject's personality or interests.
For example, if your subject is an adventurous person, try shooting in the great outdoors, and if they are a bookworm, then a library setting would be perfect.
Be creative and think outside the box; I walk around my property and street half the time and am at sports fields and school gyms the other half.
5. Edit with intention.
Post-processing is an essential part of photography, and it can either enhance or strip away the essence of a portrait.
This is where my art shines.
I love to edit, and it shows through the level of detail I give every single photo shared.
While editing, you need to keep in mind the mood, the lighting, and the personality of your subject. Don’t go overboard with filters and effects; instead, use editing to enhance the natural beauty and personality of your subject.
Remember, less is often more when it comes to editing portraits, and the aim is not to change the individual(s) for the sake of "perfection", because that is a social construct; true perfection is embracing who your model is, and sharing that with the world.
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As photographers, it’s our responsibility to capture the elements that make our subjects special in every shot we take.
By getting to know our subjects, using body language and natural lighting, choosing the right location, and editing with intention, we can bring out their true character and create portraits that are not just beautiful but also meaningful.
When people look at the photos I've taken, I want them to see their beauty, love, and that special something which makes them different from everyone else.
- Zac
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