8/05/2011

Portrait Photography - Pointers And Tips

By Kristine Wells


A portrait, also known as a portraiture, is a photo centering on a person or small groups facial expression while they are in a still position. This is to display the personality, mood and the likeness of the person or group. Portrait photography does not always have to have just the face in the picture, the whole body and background can be included as well. When taking a portrait photo the person or group is generally looking straight at the camera.

Unlike other styles of photography, portrait photography doesn't usually include models. Graduations, special events and weddings are types of occasions where portrait photography is used, and later displayed in private homes. Many are done on studio with several backgrounds to choose from.

A Bit of History

Ever since the camera was invented people have been using portrait photography. It was, and is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted and it is a more available method. Natural light was used from an open window and people would sit against the background. With technology evolving photographers have the ability to take pictures with less exposure time giving them more freedom to move around and create new styles of portrait photography.

Methods of Light

Portrait photographs can be done in a studio where the photographer can adjust the light when capturing portraits. They can change the direction and the intensity. Different lighting terms are kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main light.

The main light is the primary light source. The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject and at a 45 degree angle. The main light can create shadows so the fill light helps to eliminate them. The light that brightens up the hair of the subject is the kicker light. This will help to add depth and to show the separation from the subject and the background. A Background light brightens the background and can add effects to the backdrops.




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