Portrait Photography Hints & Tips

Proximity, Light & Placement

     A very common mistake is trying to shoot a persons whole body - head to toe - instead of just the head & shoulders.  It is very important to remember that the focus of the portrait should be the face.  If the person's apparel is important (uniform, costume, etc) just include enough in your viewfinder to represent as much - perhaps from the waist or chest up.  Also try having the subject turn their face slightly to one side as opposed to a straight on shot.  If using a digital camera ensure that you are shooting with a high dpi setting to ensure a high quality image result.  Of course, a steady hand is vital in preventing blurry photos.  If your camera does not have an image stabilization feature,  try to keep your elbows tight to the side of your body or rest your elbows against something to help prevent shake.  A tripod would be another option.  Unless the background is of significant importance, always try to get as close to your subject as your camera's viewfinder will allow. (without cutting off your subject!)

     In most instances, natural light is generally the best way to go.  But be aware that sometimes direct sunlight can be very harsh.  Do not rely on your cameras flash alone to provide you with the proper lighting requirements.   Indirect natural light is ideal.  Next to a window,  outdoors in the shade and overcast days all work well when shooting a portrait.  Try to position your subject so that the light is shining on (or towards) the subject and from behind you.

The photo to the left is an example of a decent shot suitable for a family album.  The background is important in relation to where and when the picture was taken.  However, it is not a great photo reference for a facial portrait - the subject is too far away and the focus is not on the head & shoulders. And the subject looks kind of grumpy too...

When viewing the picture to the right, the differences are instantly apparent. A much more suitable photo.  All the facial features are easily visible and recognizable.  Keep in mind that the eyes of a person or pet are probably the most important and distinguishable feature when it comes to a portrait.  Don't hesitate to take a few steps closer in order to get a better picture.

When viewing the two photos with the canoe they appear quite different, probably shot on different days with different weather conditions.  The fact is that they were both taken at the exact same time with the same camera with identical settings.  The first shot was taken directly into the light. (it was a very bright sunny day with few clouds)  The canoe and subjects take on a somewhat silhouette appearance.  The sky & background are both very bright in comparison to the canoe & the subjects' faces. 

In contrast, the second photo was taken one minute later as the canoe had passed by and began to circle back. This put the sun at my back which really helped  illuminate the subjects and made for a much warmer and subsequently, better shot.  Exact same lighting conditions - just different positioning in relation to the subject made all the difference.

See next page for tips on pet photography

© Dave Austin (Austin Images) 2006