Are you interested in creative portrait photography? Here are a few tips for how to make your portrait photos stand out, whether you are taking the pictures or having them taken.
When you think of portrait photography, as a standard the head and shoulders shot with a slightly tilted chin probably comes to mind. These are always good to have during a shoot, but adding a little creative flair can give you amazing results.
Here are a few simple ways that you can turn your standard portrait photography into a creative session.
TIP 1: CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE
There is no rule that says portrait photography needs to be taken at eye-level. Taking the shot from above or below will convey different message. move your subject around try different angels, be creative with it and see what works for you both.
TIP 2: EXPERIMENT WITH LIGHTING
Indoors or outdoors you can always use light to manipulate your images to get the most out of your session, for natural light try using windows and doors to your advantage and place your subject by them to create beautiful light and shadows, if your outdoors and the sun is too harsh find a shaded place to shoot, this could be under a tree etc. However if you are shooting in direct light try not to overexpose your image as this is a lot harder to fix in editing than if you underexpose.
Indoor studio sessions can create dramatic shadows and also have the option to play around with coloured gels and lights. it is important to remember if using dramatic lighting not to distract from the person being photographed.
TIP 3 : PLAY WITH BACKGROUNDS
Adjusting something as obvious as the background can make all the difference to a portrait image. Backgrounds of different colours and even different textures can all be used. however, make sure that wherever your location is, it isn't too busy or cluttered this is to ensure your subject doesn't blend into the background.
If it is a location shoot, making use of elements around you can really add to the final images.
TIP 4: LOSE EYE CONTACT
While a subject making direct eye contact with the camera creates a connection with the person viewing the final image, there are other options such as having the subject focus on something unseen to bring an element of mystery and intrigue to the shot itself.
TIP 5: USE PROPS
A prop has all kind of power over changing up your image. It can introduce a pop of colour to create a story, or simply to add something of visual interest. Think something as simple as an umbrella or a step stool to something even more unusual.
TIP 6: USE COLOUR TO CREATE A MOOD
Colour to an image, has plenty of power over the feeling in your photo. Consider asking your model to wear a particular colour or scout a location ahead of time to get the feel you’re looking for. Familiarize yourself with the colour wheel to understand what colours complement each other and which clash.
TIP 7: SHOOT CANDIDLY
Sure, you’re standing in front of your subject with a camera in hand, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a candid photo. Try distracting your subject with conversation either with you or a friend of theirs. You can also give them a task or even photograph from afar. I love this type of shot it shows so much of your subjects personality, and I know my clients love them too.
Once you start getting creative with portrait photography, the sky is the limit! don't hold back get out there and create the images you have always wanted.
See you on the next blog
Lucy Anne
xoxo
