The best portraits are close-ups. Close range photos capture facial expressions, and facial expressions capture the subject’s emotions and personality. Close photography also allows the camera lens to capture textures and patterns created by lighting, clothing and background; adding interest and dimension to the picture. The best photographs have a lot of emotional impact and far away photos of small, blurry subjects just don't deliver.
Portrait Photography Tip #1 - Watch the Background
Good photographers know to check the space around the subject. They look for clutter and potential obstacles in the background; a tree or a telephone pole behind the subject can appear to “grow” out of the subject's head. If the background is too busy, have the subject move a little to one side or try shooting from an angle (down or up) in order to have the ground or sky be the background.
Portrait Photography Tip #2 - Frame the Subject
An easy and effective way to create interest in a portrait is to frame the subject in a doorway, window or even in a natural frame of tree branches. While framing up a subject in the viewfinder, try putting the subject to the side of the frame instead of dead center. Sometimes capturing an equal amount of subject and surroundings makes for a more interesting shot.
Portrait Photography Tip #3 - Lose Your Head (Space)
Many beginners, in order to not “cut off” a subject’s head, compose photos with too much space above the head instead. It’s better to leave as little space as possible above the subject’s head; accomplish this by lifting or tilting the camera to capture more of the subject and less of the background in the shot.
Portrait Photography Tip #4 - Use the Lighting
Playing with the lighting is one of the best ways to create interesting photos, but be careful: very strong light should come from behind the photographer, not from behind the subject. If the subject is lit from behind the result is often a dark and indiscernible photo. The best outdoor lighting is diffused light: light that occurs in shaded areas or on overcast days. Direct sunlight will create harsh shadows and cause the subject to squint, distorting their facial expression.
Portrait Photography Tip #4 - Be Ready
The camera catches only one moment in time, and catching the right moment is the difference between a boring photo and an amazing one. A good photographer always has the camera ready and anticipates the look, laugh, smile, or frown that is about to come. An intuitive sense and quick reflexes are essential skills for any portrait photographer.
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