How to Shoot Portrait Photography
Shooting portrait requires a photographer to have the right equipment and a good attitude. A portrait client may not like having a photographer who does not know how to give directions in a friendly manner during a photo shoot. By putting the client at ease the shoot should go smoothly.
- Buy the equipment you need in order to shoot portrait photography. A digital camera, lighting and different background settings are some of the things to buy. Do some comparison shopping at local camera stores or look online to find the best prices.
- Set up a studio to use for portrait photography. If you are a home-based photographer, you need a dedicated room to use so clients will be comfortable during the photo shoot. Buy some dark curtains to cover the windows in the room instead of using blinds so no light gets in during a daytime shoot.
- Arrange your background setting and set up your lighting. Place a chair or small bench in front of the background and ask a family member to sit on it. Experiment with the lighting until you find the right setting to use for a portrait. You may need to adjust the lighting during a photo shoot depending on the client’s request.
- Set up your digital camera on a tripod and position it far enough away from the seat so the photo is appropriate to use as a portrait. Take some test photos with your family member to set up your camera. Instruct your family member how to sit and try different poses so you can easily adjust to a client’s portrait request.
- Practice the instructions that you give during a portrait shoot. Many clients can be overly sensitive, especially if they are uncomfortable. Learn to use a friendly tone and do not be too demanding during a shoot so it goes smoothly.