Compact cameras have improved to such a degree that it is now possible to to produce portrait photographs that look as though they have been taken by a professonal photographer using far more expensive cameras.
Portrait photography differs from landscape and scenery photography mainly due to the human factor. Capturing the essence of the person or the pose can be extremely difficult. If you approach the subject the way a more experienced photographer would, you will notice a definite improvement in your results.
It is very important to ensure that the subject is the main focus of attention, so spend some time organising the surroundings to ensure that this is the case. I have seen many photos that would have been perfect but for a random item that draws your attention away from the subject.
Always remember that a portrait can be anything from a full body shot to a close-up facial shot. Whichever you choose it is vital for the sitter to be comfortable and natural. Simply staring into the camera's lens will most likely result in something resembling a mugshot or a wanted poster. You will get far more pleasing results if the finished photo tells a story of some kind. A child drawing or playing with a favourite toy, glancing up at the right moment creates a spell-binding impression.
Perspective can make a vast difference to the outcome. Rather than shooting from eye-level, try laying down and taking an up-shot to create a different perspective. The same shot taken from above will produce an entirely different look. Simarlarly, shooting from the side will alter the image and being mobile allows you to be creative without disturbing the sitter. The portrait mode on your digital camera will let more light into the camera to create a shallow depth of field by slowing down the shutter speed. This will help to ensure your subject is the main focus of attention.
One of the most important factors in portrait photography is lighting. Wherever possible, natural light sources will provide the best results but nature often needs a helping hand. If you do not have access to professional lighting equipment it is possible to experiment with ready to hand equipment which can be cheaply adapted to deflect the light just by using cardbord etc. The built-in flash on a compact camera can sometimes give harsh results and should be avoided if possible.
The main thing is to keep experimenting. You can shoot the background before involving your model to get a better idea of how you want the image to look, without the subject becoming bored. The beauty of digital photography is being able to review your results instantly and make adjustments as you go.
Portrait photography differs from landscape and scenery photography mainly due to the human factor. Capturing the essence of the person or the pose can be extremely difficult. If you approach the subject the way a more experienced photographer would, you will notice a definite improvement in your results.
It is very important to ensure that the subject is the main focus of attention, so spend some time organising the surroundings to ensure that this is the case. I have seen many photos that would have been perfect but for a random item that draws your attention away from the subject.
Always remember that a portrait can be anything from a full body shot to a close-up facial shot. Whichever you choose it is vital for the sitter to be comfortable and natural. Simply staring into the camera's lens will most likely result in something resembling a mugshot or a wanted poster. You will get far more pleasing results if the finished photo tells a story of some kind. A child drawing or playing with a favourite toy, glancing up at the right moment creates a spell-binding impression.
Perspective can make a vast difference to the outcome. Rather than shooting from eye-level, try laying down and taking an up-shot to create a different perspective. The same shot taken from above will produce an entirely different look. Simarlarly, shooting from the side will alter the image and being mobile allows you to be creative without disturbing the sitter. The portrait mode on your digital camera will let more light into the camera to create a shallow depth of field by slowing down the shutter speed. This will help to ensure your subject is the main focus of attention.
One of the most important factors in portrait photography is lighting. Wherever possible, natural light sources will provide the best results but nature often needs a helping hand. If you do not have access to professional lighting equipment it is possible to experiment with ready to hand equipment which can be cheaply adapted to deflect the light just by using cardbord etc. The built-in flash on a compact camera can sometimes give harsh results and should be avoided if possible.
The main thing is to keep experimenting. You can shoot the background before involving your model to get a better idea of how you want the image to look, without the subject becoming bored. The beauty of digital photography is being able to review your results instantly and make adjustments as you go.
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If you want a new compact camera, for taking portraits with, try the Samsung ES75 for a camera that will give professional results at an affordable price
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