How to compose portrait photography

Straightforward expression is a common technique for close-ups

The most intuitive way to shoot close-ups is to fill the frame with the person’s face, with the camera close to the model, and a certain area in 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 shooting 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.

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 diagonal left shooting angle. By blocking the hair, he used a close-up to express the model's blurred eyes, creating a special scene. mean.

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 model’s facial contour in the picture is 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 the atmosphere

Although the close-up photos do not leave a lot of blank space in the picture, the role of light in the picture is still very important. It can change the tone and atmosphere of the picture.

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 contrast people

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 grass 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.

In 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 gestures in close-ups

In close-up portraits, the model’s arms are 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.

Mastering 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 traces of posing. Only dexterous arm movements can bring a lively and natural effect to the photos.

Try to take horizontal compositions to shoot close-ups. Close-up photos are rarely shot in horizontal formats, but if you choose a banner composition in a specific scene or to match the posture of the model, you can often get unexpected and ideal effects. .

When the model is lying, lying down, sitting, etc., it is easier to use the 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 and refined look 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 the character's face

Most close-up portrait photos are taken with smooth lighting, the performance effect is straightforward and lacks change, and 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 use light skillfully 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.