When using your camera to take photographs, how can you make sure they have that “wow” factor? Do you adhere to the rules that are often thought to be appropriate in portrait photography? Do you not think that your portraits are monotonous and repetitive? If so, while recording those moments, why not think creatively and defy a few conventions?
You never know, maybe taking pictures in non-rule-abiding settings can provide equally beautiful and charming pictures? Want to give it a try? Get those rules out of the way now, and then check out the following practical tips to assist you get the desired portrait photos.
1. Think about adopting different viewpoints or altering your perspective
It’s common knowledge that in order to connect with your subject, you should take pictures of them gazing directly into the lens at eye level. As an alternative, you may attempt taking more erratic shots by trying to change your angle of view and try shooting from a height and lowering to the bottom and shooting up. Either way, it will provide an angle that will spark curiosity about your topic.
2. An image that makes eye contact
You can experiment a little bit with maintaining eye contact. You either make the person look away from the camera or make them look into the frame of the portrait.
Since listeners will want to know what the subject is staring at, the first one can arouse interest and fascination in addition to a sense of sincerity. This is particularly true if the person has a look of emotion in their eyes, such enjoyment, surprise, laughing, or grief. Take care to capture the subject’s eyes even if they are not in focus.
By creating a link between the subject and the object and drawing the viewer in, focusing the subject’s attention to anything in the frame, such an object, may aid in telling a story.
3. Experiment with the lighting
Using random lighting is an intriguing way to experiment with your portrait photography. In fact, the possibilities are almost infinite if you know how to manipulate the light to your advantage. By employing techniques like backlighting, side lighting, and silhouetting, one may emphasize or conceal the subject’s features.
4. Stepping outside of your subject’s comfort zone
Thinking beyond the box and pushing a subject beyond their comfort zone are crucial when taking pictures of them. It simply means that in order to get a good shot, you have to force your subject to behave strangely. “Silly” images may be turned into original and captivating portraits instead of rigid, boring, or uncomfortable ones.
5. Employing props
Props may add flair and drama to the pictures. Make any objects serve as props so they may serve as focal points. Just be careful not to detract from your primary argument.
6. Constant shooting
Naturally, unstaged photos are not the same as staged ones. While posing for a picture might add a unique touch, it can also sometimes produce stiff, dull photos. While your subjects are active, snap images of them. Afterwards, you may choose your finest shots among the ones you took while continuously shooting or using a burst mode on your camera.
You may use a range of techniques to produce excellent photographs. Though it’s advisable to follow the instructions if you’re concerned about making mistakes, addressing problems creatively may be a lot of fun and useful when taking portraits.
