Portrait photography composition and lighting techniques

Portrait photography is different from general portrait photography. Portrait photography takes depicting and expressing the specific appearance and demeanor of the subject as its primary creative task. Although some portrait photography works also contain certain plots, it The focus is still on showing the appearance of the subject, and a considerable number of portrait photography works only describe the image of the subject without any specific plot. Figure photography is mainly about showing events and activities in which the subjects participate. It takes the performance of specific plots as its main task, rather than expressing the appearance and demeanor of the subjects with distinctive images. Below are the portrait photography composition and lighting techniques I bring to you. Welcome to read.

1. Photographic composition

1. Golden section composition: It is a geometric formula invented by the ancient Greeks, which divides the whole into two parts, and the ratio of the larger part to the whole part Equal to the ratio of the smaller part to the larger part, the ratio is approximately 0.618. From the perspective of visual focus, it can evolve into a golden spiral.

Golden section composition

2. Horizontal line composition: The horizontal direction symbolizes tranquility, breadth, and broadness. Many scenes in nature have the characteristics of horizontal lines. Using horizontal composition can make the picture stable and durable. In addition, sometimes multiple lines appear in the landscape, and these lines will also make the lake surface more lively, distinct and rhythmic.

Horizontal line composition

3. Line head diagram

① Vertical line composition: symmetrically arranged in perspective, symbolizing solemnity, strength and power

② Diagonal composition: The picture usually has a strong sense of movement and can show a sense of depth. It can be developed into a diagonal composition, making the whole picture very vivid and impactful.

③ Irregular line composition: Although it is an irregular line, it can achieve unparalleled effects when combined with relatively simple color expression

④ Triangular composition: Triangular composition is It refers to using the three visual centers as the main positions to form a stable picture to compose and complete the shooting.

2. Light for Photography

1. Direction of light: Distinguished according to the direction of light, light is divided into directional light sources and non-directional light sources.

2. Characteristics of light: According to the characteristics of light, it is divided into hard light and soft light. Hard light refers to a strong direct light source. Under hard light, there will be shadows on the subject, and there will be a large contrast in the photographed picture, which is in sharp contrast with the bright parts, which can increase the appeal of the picture. Soft light (scattered light) will appear more uniform due to its soft light quality and soft contrast.

3. Control of light ratio: Light ratio refers to the ratio of the strongest and weakest parts of the picture. The high light ratio is suitable for expressing the outline of the subject, such as the firmness of a man, and the picture will feel very tough; while the low light ratio is suitable for expressing the gentleness of the subject, and the picture is soft. But if it is too soft, the picture will be too dull and lack vitality. Of course, the high-light ratio is not just for men. It is also applicable to stunning beauties. Generally speaking, it depends on the content, subject matter, and thoughts of the shooting.