This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

Five More Portrait Photography Tips

We hope you enjoyed the five tips on portrait photography from last month. We thought it would be helpful to continue that theme

Five More Portrait Photography Tips - Portrait Photographer Freehold

We hope you enjoyed the five tips on portrait photography from last month. We thought it would be helpful to continue that theme with additional tips.

1. Grow Rapport

The final result will reveal the comfort level of your subject. To prevent them feeling uncomfortable and stiff, establish a good rapport with them beforehand. Take time to chat with them, go over ideas, enjoy a cup of coffee, and relax. During the shoot, give some gentle direction but don’t be silent (this intimidates) and don’t be overly bossy and controlling. Show them some samples after every few shots to build their confidence.

2. Pose Subjects Properly

The way you pose your subject can make a huge big impact on the finished product. Even the smallest adjustment in facial expression can dramatically change the whole look and feel of the photograph. Be sure to capture a wide range of expressions and positions so you have more options to choose from later on when editing. Encourage your subject to experiment with other directions, looks and glances, such as looking away from the camera, off to the side, up or down. Posing straight-on isn’t the only option here. Get creative!

Find out what's happening in Howellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

3. Use Reflectors

Utilize a white, silver or gold reflector to add professionalism and brightness to your finished pieces. This is best for outdoor shots or even indoor ones where you’re getting plenty of natural light, such as near a window. It will fill in shadows that can otherwise ruin a good shot. If you can’t afford a reflector right now, use a sheet of white cardboard for the same effect. You can cover it with aluminum foil for a silver effect if you want.

4. Use Creative Compositions

It’s much too simply to get lazy with your compositions. Perhaps you tend to stand way back to include all of the subject or their whole top half. Instead, try zooming in so you can fill the frame for added inspiration. You can position the model off to one side of the frame, highlighted by a wide aperture and shallow depth of field.

Find out what's happening in Howellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

5. Focus

The use of a wide aperture lens cuts down on the depth of field. The right focus is imperative; if you don’t get it quite right, you will get an uneven focus on your subject. For tight composition, focus on eyes; for a wide composition, focus on the head. Switch to an autofocus setting for more targeted pieces.

Contact AJK Photography

For the best in portrait photography, AJK Photography has your back. We serve clients throughout Monmouth County and beyond. To learn more about our portrait photography services, email us at AJKPHOTOGRAPHYNJ@gmail.com, call us at 732-618-3813 or search for portrait photographer near me. You can also feel free to schedule a consultation online.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?