Composition methods for close-ups of characters

Introduction: Close-up is the most direct and easy-to-master expression technique in portrait photography. It can express the beautiful faces of people in a straightforward way. Close-up photos are simple, clear, intuitive, easy to learn and master. Features, but it is not so easy to master close-up photography, let’s take a look below.

Straightforward expression is a common technique for close-ups

The most intuitive way to shoot close-ups is to fill the frame with the face of the person, with the camera close to the model, and a part of the frame can be reserved for use Use space in the composition, but don’t capture too much of the character’s torso below the neck. Capture the model’s most exciting expression and press the shutter.

Although close-up photography seems simple, there are many details that need to be controlled: First of all, close-ups have very high requirements on the model, and the facial features and face shape must be correct; at the same time, because the skin occupies most of the picture in close-up photos area, so pre-makeup is very important; in addition, close-ups test the expressiveness of the model, and the model must be generous and confident; the last thing that needs attention is to control the deformation of the character, because the close-up photos are taken at a close distance, which can easily cause deformation of the face and facial features. Control the angle when shooting and use wide-angle lenses with caution.

The shooting effect of shaping an oval face face

One of the keys to successful close-up photo shooting is the control of face shape. How to make the model’s face look thinner and more like an oval face? The answer is very Simple, in addition to the model's own condition factors, the photographer can use subtle changes in the shooting angle to control the final effect of the photo.

Use shooting angles to create changes

For photographers, there are not many auxiliary elements to choose from in the composition of close-up shots. At this time, it is more important to grasp the precise shooting angle. , create personalized close-up photos by selecting the shooting angle.

If you can focus on the characteristics of the model, seize the most beautiful shooting angle of the model, change the angles and try more when taking pictures, you will definitely make the photos outstanding.

In this example, the photographer changed his position to observe carefully, and finally chose a diagonally upward shooting angle. Through the cover of the hair, he used a close-up to show the model’s blurred eyes, creating a special meaning in the picture. .

Using the principle of near-large and far-small perspective deformation, the photographer shoots from a high angle, or shoots from a straight angle, so that the model lowers her head slightly and retracts her chin. At this time, the outline of the model’s face in the picture It will appear thinner; in addition, long-haired models can also use their hair to properly cover their faces to modify their facial shapes.

Light can create an atmosphere

Although there won’t be a lot of blank space in the close-up photo, the role of light in the picture is still very important. It can change the tone of the picture. and atmosphere.

In close-up creation, you can also use the backlight shooting method often used in portrait photography to create a high-key picture effect and a sunny yellow tone through light; similarly, photographers can also use side lighting techniques to shape the contours and deep expressions of the character's face.

In this example, the photographer used backlighting to create a special atmosphere, making the entire photo appear dazzling and refined.

Use flowers and plants to set off characters

There are not many picture elements that can be used in close-up photos, but flowers and plants are still good shooting props.

The photographer can place the model among flowers and grass, and use the flowers and plants as the foreground of the picture or the model's accessories to decorate the picture. The vitality of the plants and the color of the flowers and plants can reflect the youth and beauty of the model.

When matching the composition, the photographer needs to control the color of the flowers and plants to see if they match the model's clothing. At the same time, he also needs to control the model's expression to allow a natural interaction between the model and the flowers and plants.

A common shooting example is that the model is placed in a world of flowers and plants to create an intoxicating scene. Photographers can also take pictures of graceful ladies holding flowers, or scenes of models dodging among flowers to show the model's lively personality. In short, the model and the flowers and plants in the picture must be natural and harmonious.

Arm posture in close-up

In close-up portraits, the model’s arm is an element that can be utilized. The girl's hands are slender and beautiful. By using the model's hair, chin support, lips and smile, etc., you can add more expressions and demeanor to the plain close-up photos, and also make the photos more vital and emotional.

Grasping the arm posture is a difficult point in portrait photography. The model's movements must be elegant, and the interception of the arm when composing the picture must be natural and appropriate, otherwise the presence of the arm will destroy the overall effect of the picture.

The performance of the arms in the picture also depends on the natural state of the model, leaving no trace of posing. Only dexterous arm movements can bring a lively and natural effect to the photos.

Try horizontal composition to take close-ups

Close-up photos are rarely shot in horizontal format, but if you choose a banner composition in a specific scene or to match the posture of the model, you will often Unexpected and ideal results can be obtained.

When the model is lying, lying down, sitting, etc., it is easier to use a banner composition to express the model's posture and the dynamics of the picture. Utilizing a model's unconventional movements can give your photos a unique impact.

The photo in this example was taken at the beach. The model was lying on the beach. In order to obtain the ideal effect, the photographer lay on the ground and shot from a very low angle. This angle of view brought a refined quality to the picture. The performance effect, the picture is full of new ideas, and the charming temperament of the model is vividly expressed.

Use light to create a three-dimensional sense on a character’s face

Most close-up portrait photos are taken with smooth lighting. The performance effect is straightforward and lacks change. The three-dimensional sense of the model’s facial features is not strong. This is one of the reasons why most close-up photos are cliché.

Photographers can skillfully use light when creating close-ups. In this example, the photographer uses side lighting to shoot the model. By carefully controlling the angle of the model's face, he can grasp the light changes on the model's face and hair. For the face on the shadow side, a reflector is used to fill in the light accordingly. Processing, through precise exposure, not only makes the picture have a clear contrast between light and dark, but also perfectly expresses the three-dimensional sense of the model's facial features.

Side light is not widely used in portrait photography, but if used properly, it can not only create more light and dark changes in the photo, but also make the model appear more vivid and attractive in the picture.