Rabu, 12 September 2012

Basics of Portraits

By Matthew Rivers


Your Subject

Keeping your subject busy while taking either posed or candid shots is really the key to great photos. Of course, allowing them to work on a hobby project, could be the best way for them to feel relaxed and at home in their environment, giving you a much better chance for success with your photos. But, branching out to try something new for the first time it not a bad idea either, as long as you're using a faster shutter speed to keep the entire scene sharp.

Of course, children are always a great opportunity as subject. Not only because of their high energy, but due to their simplicity! If you can have a few children interacting or playing together, you might get just the photo you're looking for. Then, don't forget that children can be the cutest when they are asleep!

Also, if you've ever been traveling, you know that capturing natives in their traditional dress can add great variety to your photographs. Getting permission is essential, but you can either opt for up-close or distance candid shots. For closer photos, go with the medium length lens that will allow you to capture full body shots without crowding your subject.

What are Some Other Portrait Options?

Since portraits were never meant to be boring, make sure that you're open to other options. In fact, by capturing hands and arms, you can tell an entire story often more effectively than through a person's facial expression. Try young hands that are at play or work or even weathered hands that tell a story about the history of the life that has been lived.

For those lighting on a budget, consider a paper plate as a reflector for your scene. Since they can be easily discarded when you're finished, they are extremely portable. With a shinier surface, you'll be able to direct more light to your subject, so play with tinfoil-covered cardboard or even gold wrapping paper stretched over a surface.

How to Use Special Effects

Since special effects are key to helping your photos get noticed, remember that the effects themselves do not need to be elaborate or complex. A simple soft filter on the lens is an excellent start, but you can also opt for some of the special filter effects available in editing software. Everything from special film, like infrared, or other lighting effects can get you the results you want for your portraits.

For options with backgrounds, consider all of the possibilities that can be achieved with color. If you're looking for something that will always complement your subject no matter what they're wearing, then go with the softer, neutral tones. For bold contrast, consider deeper hues that can be easily achieved with dyed sheets as your backdrop.




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