Intent/Purpose
- Most deliberate portraits are shot either to flatter the sitter or to express individual character
- Shoot with the intent to sum up the person as a character
- Helpful to know how a picture is to be used
- It definitely helps to be extrovert and good with people
- A broad face or broad shoulders look narrower from a three quarter viewpoint instead of square-on
- Photographed from a low angle someone will look dominant, whereas shown from a high viewpoint they can appear dominated
- Avoid trapping people into straight-jacketed poses and critical lighting arrangements which are bound to make them look artificial and ill at ease
- Organize everything for a natural and productive relationship between you and your subjects
- It is a good idea to use a tripod anyway
- For half-length or head shots, pick a slightly longer than normal focal length lens (i.e. 150mm for 6x6cm or 85mm for 35mm)
- Work from a more distant viewpoint, giving a less steep, more flattering perspective and intimidating the sitter less with your camera equipment
- Daylight indoors light source often gives excellent natural qualities but it can be difficult to control
- Try to go for a simple lighting arrangement that allows subjects to change posture easily
- As soon as possible, stop tinkering with the equipment and concentrate on your relationship with the sitter
- Use a combination of reflectors, diffusers and Speedlight to achieve ideal indoor lighting. This applies to outdoor shoot as well