What should we pay attention to in portrait photography?

The so-called portrait photography refers to works that use distinctive and prominent images to depict and express the appearance and demeanor of the subject in the form of photography. It is a portrait of the subject himself.

An excellent portrait photography is the sum of many successful factors: expression, posture, composition, lighting, exposure, and production must all reach a high level. They are all components of a whole.

To take good portrait photos, there are many details that need to be paid attention to. Portrait photography itself is divided into many categories. For photography beginners, the 10 basic techniques listed here can help you get started quickly and take qualified portraits.

To take good portrait photos, there are many details that need to be paid attention to. Portrait photography itself is divided into many categories. For photography beginners, the 10 basic techniques listed here can help you get started quickly and take qualified portraits. ?

1. Aperture? Use a large aperture such as f/1.2, f/1.4, f/1.8. The 50mm?f/1.8 only costs a few hundred dollars and is a great lens. On an APS-C format camera, the equivalent focal length of a 50mm lens is 80mm, which is very suitable for shooting portraits. ?

2. Shadows and uniform light: Place the model in the shadow area, and the light shining on the model's face should be uniform. It is best to have the model stand in the shadows and face the light source.

3. Focus on the eyes If you use a wide aperture lens, be sure to focus on the eyes. Other areas of the face will be slightly out of focus with a shallow depth of field. To enhance this effect you need to shoot close to the model, preferably in a close-up. ?

4. Choose the aperture carefully If you want to take a full-body portrait, choose the aperture carefully to ensure that all parts of the model's body are within the depth of field. If you also use a large aperture such as f/2.8, the depth of field will be too shallow. Shrink the aperture to f/5.6 and ensure that the shutter speed is no less than 1/125s. If necessary, increase the sensitivity or fill in the light. This combination is just a suggestion, you can try different combinations to find the best setting.

5. Manual mode Many articles recommend using aperture priority mode. This is no problem during your first month with a camera. But if you want to take better photos, you must learn to use manual mode.

6. Eye light ensures that there is some reflection in the model’s eyes. You can do this even in shadow, just keep the model oriented to the light source.

7. Don’t leave models empty-handed with props, give them something to hold. A commonly used prop is a bouquet, and even men can take photos with it.

8. Pay attention to the background so that it is light or in shadow. In short, keep it simple and the model is the main subject of the picture. When shooting outdoors, it's best to choose an open background rather than a patch of bushes or a wall.

9. Clothing Pay some attention to the model’s clothing. Clothes and accessories are also part of the picture, and as a visual creator you should have choices.

10. Learn Photoshop Learning to use Photoshop is very helpful for your editing work. In addition to basic operations, you should also learn to find and use "actions". These techniques can improve photo quality several notches.