Not just Documenting People, Strategies for Capturing Authentic Emotions in Portraits
Something about a stunning portrait is always captivating. I think it has to do with people seeing the best versions of ourselves. Even if the portrait we are looking at is not of us.
A well crafted portrait is a window into the soul of the person looking our from the page.
There is a connection to the subject that we can all relate to.
However, Crafting a good portrait takes a lot of skill. It is not simply placing a subject in good light. It is about connection. The person sitting for the portrait was made to feel comfortable. The camera can be a scary thing. For many it reveals insecurities. I have met quite a few people that do not like having their portrait made. Even though they are beautiful people. They can never seem to feel like the result is right.
I am of the opinion that these people have never been made to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Most peoples first interaction with a portrait photographer is for school photos. These unsung photographers have the incredible task of making hundreds of individual portraits in a day. with subjects that are often shy, uncomfortable, or simply too young to know what is going on. Imagine the levels of stress involved in creating an image of a person that has no idea how to pose. No idea how to smile on command and has the patience of a disinterested house cat.
Same goes with adults, Many of us have never had a good portrait made in our lives. So as a result we make the silly faces. or stare into the camera in an uncomfortable way.
With all that said. Here are some tips for creating beautiful and connecting portraits.
I am not going to touch on lighting or environmental vs studio portraiture. I’ll leave that up to you and your personal preferences. Every photographer lights and shoots in a different style. Same with editing, Some photographers like to edit the hell out of their photos. Others prefer a more natural look (or we are a little lazy when it comes to retouching, you be the judge)
Either way. That is not the point of this write up.
1 – Get to know your subject. Whether it is a friend, a complete stranger, or a famous celebrity. Getting to know your subject on a personal level is the most important skill to own. It helps to relax the subject and make them feel comfortable in front of the always intimidating camera.
2 – What other techniques can we use to boost the confidence of a portrait sitter. Aside from some lively banter than makes them feel at ease. I have always felt that removing the camera from the front of your face and putting it on a tripod is helpful. This does force the photographer to frame wider to make sure the subject is not out of frame. Yet, the result is the subject can see your face. not a large dark camera and lens staring at them. This makes the situation more personal and less mechanical.
3 – How do you build this elusive rapport with a portrait sitter. If you are a school photographer its tough. You have limited time. Especially with children. With adults but, the task is a little easier. Mostly because of the level of communication that adults have. The discomfort though, is the same.
A great way to build rapport with a portrait subject is to start with friendly compliments. Perhaps something a little self depreciating towards yourself. Something that reflects what the subject has already mentioned. Gentle humour goes a long way to making the photographer come across as a person. Not a professional with a fancy camera. As well it makes the person sitting for the photo more comfortable.
On the subjects side of things. What can you do to make the experience more enjoyable and ensure you get the best portrait possible?
That’s a great question. Here a a few ideas to help ease the process.
1 – choose your photographer carefully. Much like with a tattoo artist, picking the right artist, one you get along with and feel comfortable photographing with is important. A good portrait photographer will happily give a consultation. After all, they want the best pictures as well!
2 – Building a rapport goes both ways. If you are at ease with the photographer, even asking them questions and being generally friendly the session goes much smoother. If you have ideas or a style of portrait you want to try let us know! Most photographers are happy to try new ideas. You will likely inspire us as well.
3 – I know this sounds difficult, but try to relax. The photographer is there to make you look your best. If you have trust in us then we will deliver what you want.
So there you have it. My little tips to making and receiving better portraits. As you can see, it is about the personal connection between the photographer and the sitter. Honestly, without that, most portraits are boring and flat. Lacking emotional connection.
Give it a try and let me know if my ideas work for you!
And now.. some pictures!!
