Tips to improve portrait photography

Portrait Photography

Portrait photography or portraiture is the capture by means of photography of the likeness of a person or a small group of people (a group portrait), in which the face and expression is predominant. The objective is to display the likeness, personality, and even the mood of the subject. Like other types of portraiture, the focus of the photograph is the person's face, although the entire body and the background may be included. A portrait is generally not a snapshot, but a composed image of a person in a still position. A portrait often shows a person looking directly at the camera.

Portrait photography has been around since the invention and popularization of the camera. It is a cheaper and often more accessible method than portrait painting, which has been used by distinguished figures before the popularity of the camera.

• Natural light - Natural light is capable of producing beautiful portraits. Window light have been used as an efficient source of light even today. But it will be hard to control the angle, density and direction of natural light unlike artificial light. Reflectors can be used while working in open areas to reflect light on to the subject. Natural light is effective, easy and inexpensive.
• Flash - Flash too can be great for portraits. Technique of fill flash where in while close enough to the subject, camera's pop-up flash is used to 'fill in' the hard shadows caused by the strong light overhead can also be effective to deliver portraits of aesthetic value.
• Use off-camera flash - Off camera flash is a moderately costly yet a highly creative option to add creativity and aesthetic value to portrait photography. By using a special cable or remote trigger one will be able to light the subject from different angles with stunning visual effects.
• Ring flash - A ring flash is a circular flash that attaches to the end of lens. It was actually developed so that medical, forensic and macro photographers could get super close to their subject and still get a good even spread of light. However, in recent years it’s been adopted by portrait and fashion photographers for the unique halo-like shadow it creates. It is also used to superimpose the iris and bring liveliness to the eye of the model.
• Studio lights - Studio lights gives maximum control to the photographer. It delivers maximum artistic freedom and greater room for creativity and productivity. Using strobe lights with accessories such as umbrellas, soft-boxes, snoots and barn doors variety of moods and styles can be created to enhance portraits. 
• Environmental portraits - Taking portraits of people in their environment can add another dimension to your images. It adds various dimensions and personality to the portrait.
• Pose or candid - There are opportunities for fantastic portraits whether you give your subject direction or not. A well-taken candid portrait can capture the essence of your subject’s personality in a split second, but you’ll need quick reactions to get the best results. A more deliberate and considered approach that might involve some direction and interaction between photographer and sitter can also produce magical results, but you’ll need make your subject feel at ease.

~ Hari Bhagirath Photography