Creative Portrait Photography: Tips and Ideas on Photographing People, Women, Children, Couples and...

CreativePortraitPhotography:TipsandIdeasonPhotographingPeople,Women,Children,CouplesandMore!ByFreeDigitalPhotographyTutorials.com

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CoverphotobyEugeneWineblat

TableofContents

IntroductionPortraitPosingGuidesModelPortraitsGlamourPortraitsModelPortraitsontheBeachOutdoorBoudoirPortraitsEngagementPortraitsWeddingPortraitsPregnantandMaternityPortraitsNewbornandBabyPortraitsFamilyPortraitsStudioPhotographyTipsLowLightPortraitTipsSilhouettePortraitsAdditionalTipsandTricksOneLastThing…OtherBooksonPhotography

Introduction

At FreeDigitalPhotographyTutorials.com, we’re dedicated to helpingphotographersbecome thebest theycanat all typesofphotography, includingportraits.Asyoumayknow,portraitphotographyisoneofthemostsoughtaftertypesofphotographythatnearlyeveryphotographerwantstomaster.Infact,ifyoudoaGooglesearchonthesubjectyou’llfindthattherearemillionsofwebpages(andotherbooks)dedicatedtotheverytopic.However, what you’ll mostly find within these sites (and books) is the sameinformationrepeatedtimeandtimeagain–common,technicalmethodsonhowto pose a subject.Yes, that is important to understand andweprovide severalfree tutorials on our website about the topic, including 35 of the bestphotographyposesforportraitsandthe3-2posingtechnique.Whenyouhaveachance, check themout.They’ll teach you everything you need to knowon atechnical basis and saveyourhoursof time searching the internet and readingotherbooks.The only problem with these technical tutorials is that they neglect the mostimportantaspectofbeingagreatportraitphotographer-beingcreativewithyourshots!Sure, anyone can learn how to pose a subject using tried and tested rules inphotography, but that won’tmake your portraits stand out apart from anotherphotographer’s.And, that’swhy this bookwaswritten – to teach you how tobecomecreativewithyourportraitphotography.Within these pages you’ll find tips and tricks on how to capture creative andengaging portraits of all styles, including: models, glamour photos, outdoorboudoir,engagedcouples,weddings,pregnantandmaternity,families,etc.Additionally, we’ll also share with you tips from the pros on how to capturebetterstudioportraits,waystotakebetterpicturesinlowlightsituations,howtomaster a powerful, yet often neglected photo technique called silhouettephotography,andmore.There’salotofinformationtocoverinthisbookandwelookforwardtohelpingyoubecomeabetterportraitphotographer.So,let’sgetstarted!

PortraitPosingGuidesAsaphotographer,youshouldbeequippedwithawide rangeofphotographyposesthatyoucandirectyoursubjectstoperform.Knowing theseposeswill helpyou to capture amazingphotographsnomatterwhattypeofshootyouareon.Beforewegetintospecifictipsandtricksonportraitphotography,wewantedtoprovideyouwithtwofreeportraitposingguides.Usetheseguidesasareferencewhether you’re shooting a single person portrait, such as a senior, graduation,model,etc.Theposescontainedwithineachguidewillhelpyouimmenselyonyourphotoshoots.

DownloadPosingGuide#1[pdf]

DownloadPosingGuide#2[pdf]

ModelPortraitsAsamodelphotographeryouwillundoubtedlyworkwithbothexperiencedandinexperiencedmodels.Regardlessof theexperiencelevelof themodelyouarephotographing there are certain tips that you can follow to help things gosmoothly.Inthischapter,you’llfindseveralphotographytipsthatwillhelpyoucapturethebestshotsfromyourmodels.

Photobydmsumon

BePunctualandPreparedIt’simportantthatyou’rewellpreparedforthephotoshoot.Thismeansbeingontimeandmakingsurethatyouhaveallofyourequipmentwithyouandthatit’ssetupandreadytogo.It’sagoodideatospeakwiththemodela fewdaysprior to theshoot to let themknowthe typeofshotsyou’relooking for.Thiswill enable them toalsocomepreparedbypracticingcertainposesandexpressions.Speakingtothemodelaheadoftimewillalsohelphimorhertobeawareofthetypeofclothingtowearandifanytypesofaccessoriesorjewelryareneeded.Inaddition,theywillbeabletoadjusttheirmakeupandhairtofitinwiththethemeoftheshoot.Ifyoumeetwiththemodelbeforethejobtheoddsarethatyou’llbothbemorerelaxedwhenworkingtogether.Ifthemodelisnewtoportraitphotographyoryouwanttocontrolhowtheposeisformed,printoutandbringthePortraitPosingGuidesweprovidedtoyouinthe first chapter to the location.Whileon setyoucan show themodel sampleposesfromtheguidesthatyouwanttoshoot.

SettingtheSceneIt’salwaysagoodideatofindoutwhattypeofenvironmentorsettingthemodelpreferstoworkin.Youcanaskwhattypeoflightingandmusicthey’recomfortablewithandmakesuretheyareallowedtheirprivacy.Littlethingssuchasthetemperatureofthestudiocanalsobediscussedsinceyouwantthemodeltofeelascomfortableaspossible.Of course, on some occasions the theme of the photo shootwill dictate thesethings,butbyasking,themodelwillrealizethatyou’retryingtomakethemfeelatease.

CommunicationisKeyMostmodelsappreciateitifyou’respecificinyourinstructions.Ifyou’revaguetheymaynotknowwhatitisyou’relookingfor.Oneofthebestways to let the model know what you’re trying to capture on camera is toactuallyshowthemexamplesfromthePortraitPostingGuides,variouswebsitesormagazines.Thiswaytheycanvisuallyseewhatitisyou’retryingtoachieve.Asking amodel’s opinion at thephoto shoot is alsobeneficial since theymayhavesomehelpfultipsorexperiencetoshare.Don’tbeafraidtotrythis.

ExploreDifferentAnglesIf you just stand stillwhile taking your shots, all of the imageswill be takenfromthesameangleandheight.Youshouldgeta littlecreativeand tryoutvariousheight levelsandanglesbymovingaround.Tryasmanydifferentanglesasyoulike,includingfrombelowandaboveanddon’tbeafraidtotrysomethingunconventional.If you’re struggling with composition ideas, check out our companion bookMastering the Art of Photography Composition (available on Amazon.com).Insideyou’lllearntonsoftipsandtricksonhowtocomposegreatshots.

BelieveinYourselfWhen holding a photo shoot with a model you need to be confident in yourabilities.Alwaysbeprofessionalandknowwhatit isyou’retryingtoachieve.Ifyou’renot confident in yourself then there’s a good chance your model won’t beconfidentinyoueither.Wecan’tstressenoughhowimportantitistostaycalmandtakeyourtime.

GlamourPortraitsIfyouwanttocapturegreatglamourphotographyyou’llfirstneedtoknowhowtoproperlyposethemodel.Inthischapter,we’regoingtosharewithyousomeglamourphotographyposesandtipsthatyoucaninstantlyusetospiceupyourshots.Justrememberthatyou’reworkingwiththehumanbody,soyoudon’twantthemodels to tryposes that arehard to achieveand/or areuncomfortablebecausethesewon’tseemnatural.In fact, a good pose shouldn’t really look like the person is posing at all. Itdoesn’tmatterhowbeautiful thepersonmaybe, if theposesandanglesaren’trightthephotoswon’tbeflattering!

PhotobyEricaHampton

BeUp-to-dateUnfortunatelyforsome,we’renotlivingintheSwingingSixtiesanymore.Posesthatwerecommondecadesagomightnotbeinvogueintoday’sera.It’s

true that some things are cyclical, but you can usually spot an out-of-datehairstyleandoutfitandthesamecanbesaidforglamourphotographyposes.Thesecanbeideal thoughifyou’retryingtocreatearetroorhistoricalfeel tothe shoot, but if you’re aiming for something more modern, think natural,provocative,andsensual.

PhotosbyThomasBöckerandKonstantinLazorkin

UsePropsUsingpropsisusuallyagoodideaasitwillmakeiteasierforthemodeltopose.It can be pretty hard for somemodels to try and posewithout a prop in theirhands or something to lean, sit, or climb on etc. This is especially true forbeginners.Ifyouprovideyourmodelwithapropofanykindyoucanalsoseehowtheyinteractnaturallywithit.Ideas for typesof propsyou canuse include a scarf, a rosewith a long stem,flowerpetals,asleekblackwalkingcane, largenecklaces,afedorastylehat,achair,etc.

AccentuatethePositivesWhilesomepeoplesuremaylookit,nobody’sperfectthough.Ifyourmodelhappenstohaveanyvisibleflawsyoucanalwaystrytohidethemwiththeposesyousuggest.Forexample,iftheglamourmodelisalittleontheheaviersideyoushouldshootthatpersonatanglesinsteadofstraighton.Astraightonposeaccentuatesthebroadshoulders,whichyoudonotwanttodo.Having the person turn at an angle to the camera can instantly shed a fewpounds!Also, make sure the shoulder facing the camera is tilted slightly lower. Thathelpsthinapersonoutvisuallyaswell.Finally, never shoot from a low angle.Low angleswillmake the person lookheavier.Ifpossible,alwaysshootfromahigherthaneyelevelangleasthistendstomakeapersonlookleaner.Ontheothersideofthecoin,ifthemodelisquitethinyoumaywanttodotheopposite.Having thatperson shift theirweight to the foot furthest from the camerawillmaketheimagemoreinterestingasthemodelwon’tappeartobeflatfooted.Ifthemodelhasobviousstrongpointsyoushouldemphasizethemintheposes.Withthinnermodels,mostlyanytypeofanglegoes,asyoudon’thavetohidemanyphysicalflaws.Show,Don’tTellIfyouwant tocommunicateproperlywithyourmodel it’sa lotbetter toshowthemexactlywhatyoumeaninsteadoftellingthem.Thiswilleliminatemanywastedminutes,orevenhours!Don’tbeafraidtoshowthemhowtoposebydoingityourself.Theywillpickuponthisandtheninterprettheposeintheirownuniquestyle.Also,don’ttaketheshotsfromoneposition.Movearoundyourmodelandshootfromdifferentanglesuntilyoufindtheperfectshot.

BeComplimentaryWhen the model poses exactly the way you’re looking for and the image isperfect,showittothemtoboostuptheirconfidenceandmotivatethem.Inawayit’ssimilartogivinganathleteapatonthebackaftercomingupwithabigplay.You’llbeamazedathowmuchthissimpletrickwillworkwondersforthe rest of your shoot. A confident model always makes for a betterphotographedmodel!

PhotobyKonstantinLazorkin

KeepingitCleanIf you’re interested in tasteful nude photography you can try it in a non-suggestivewayifyouwanttostayawayfromx-ratedshots.Just make sure that your model knows what they are getting themselves intobeforehand. Ask them up front if they are comfortable with this type ofphotography.Somepeopleareandsomearenot.

ModelPortraitsontheBeachThebeachisanidealdestinationtocapturemodelphotography.Therearenumerousthingsthatcanbeusedasfocalpointsand/orbackgroundssuch as the water, sand, lifeguard towers, sandcastles, boats/ships, vegetation,fishingpiersetc.If you’d like to capture some beautiful shots, these beachmodel photographytipsmayhelpyouout.

TimingandLightingIfyou’regoingspecificallytothebeachtakephotosofamodelyou’llwanttotakeadvantageoftheGoldenHourinPhotography.Afreetutorialonthissubjectcanbefoundonourwebsitehere.Basically,whatthetutorialteachesyouisthatthenaturallightingfromthesunisusuallyidealanhourorsojustafterthesunrisesandanhourorsobeforethesunsets.During this timeofday the sunoftenpaints the surroundingskyandclouds with some amazing colors and gives a beautiful golden glow to yourportraits.If you’ve never taken a portrait during the golden hour, youmust try it. Theresultsareamazing!

FindInterestingBackgroundsThe sea and sand can be gorgeous, but afterwhile if that’s all there is in thephotostheycouldbecomealittleboring.If you can find something to add into the shots as abackdrop, such as apier,vegetation, hotel/resort or sand dunes etc., the images will become moreinteresting.Tryavarietyofapertureswherethebackgroundisoutoffocusandthesubjectiscrispaswellasthebackgroundbeingsharptoo.Oftenwhileonlocationitmayseemthatonetypeofshotwouldbebetterbutonceyoureviewyourphotosyoumayfindthatyouliketheotherdepth-of-fieldchoicebetter.Ifyouareunsureofhow to achieve such effects using your camera, take a look at our companionbook, Mastering Aperture in Digital Photography. This book will teach youeverything you need to know about the aperture setting and how to use it tocapturebeautifulphotographs.

OutdoorBoudoirPortraitsOneofthesexieststylesofphotographyisboudoir!While some photographers are still only shooting this style of photographywithin the closed doors of a studio or client’s home, a new trend is nowemerging–outdoorboudoirphotography.“Whyisthisstyleofboudoirbecomingsopopular,”youask.Because,whenyouthink about it taking boudoir photos outdoors is a no-brainer. The naturallightingworkswondersforawoman’sskinwhilethebodytonesblendwellwithnaturaloutdoorsurroundings.Mixing these traits with a complimenting color of lingerie really makes awoman’s body pop from the background while taking advantage of beautifullighting.Oneofthemajorreasonswhyboudoirphotographyissointriguing,notonlytophotographers but women as well, is the fact that contemporary boudoirphotography includes variations of candid and posed photos where nudity isimplied rather than explicit. This makes these types of photographs greatpresentsforwomentogivetotheirspousesbeforeawedding,atanniversaries,onbirthdaysorValentine’sDay.Regardlessifyouarenewtoboudoiroraseasonedpro,takealookatthephotosthe photos in this chapter and use them as inspiration for your next outdoorboudoirphotographyshoot.

Photobyjet’aimeboudoirPhotographingyour subject and includinga sizable amountof thebackgroundlandscapeisabeautifulwaytosetthesceneforthemoreupcloseandintimatephotostocome.Shootingfrombehindalsotendstobesexy.

PhotobyDixiePixelPhotoIfyourclientiscomfortablewithwaterhavehergetintoanearbystreamorlake.Photographing from above her eye linemakes her lookmore submissive andsensual.Byhavingherlookdownandawayfromthecameraitalsoaddsintimacytothephotosinceitlooksmorelikeacandidshot.Ifattemptingthisstyleofboudoirphotographyoutside,makesureitisoneofthelastshotsyoutakesosheisnotwetinalltherest!

PhotobyDivineStudioAgreatwaytoadddramatoaboudoirphotooutsideistoaddasplashofcolor.Notice how the blue jacket and pink skirt pop off the neutral background? Ifyourclienthasbrightcolorsshecan throwonoverher lingeriehaveherbringthemtouseduringafewshots.

PhotobyLindseyThorneDon’tunderestimatethepowerofblackandwhitelingerietoo.Notice how the woman’s lingerie blends with the background, yet still looksbeautifulinthephoto?Complimenting colors can also work wonders for your boudoir photos. Also,considertakingafewshotsfromthewaistdown–notonlyisitsexybutitalsoaddsabitofmysterytothephoto.

PhotobyLindseyThorneAclassicphotographytechniqueistouseforegroundframing.Usethistipoutdoorstospiceupyourboudoirphotos.Anoldpictureframeisagreat investment and you can incorporate it into all of your shoots for addedflare.

PhotobyLittleSecretStudioOneofthebestwaystoaddintimacytoaboudoirphotoistoremovetheclient’seyesfromtheframe.Photographing thewomanwithherhead turnedawayor facepartiallycoveredmakesforacandidshotthatissuretobesexy!

PhotobyStudioCarréWhenshootingoutsidedon’tforgettobringprops!Noticehowthisbrightredchairaddsapopofcolortothephoto.Ifthewomanwasonlyinherblacklingerieinthissettingshewouldblendintoowellwiththebackground.Brightlycoloredchairs,scarves,bicycles,beachballs,blanketsandmorearegreatpropstobringwithyou!

EngagementPortraitsEngagement photography is a great opportunity for you to push the limits ofyourcreativity.Sincemost engagement photo sessions are informal and unrehearsed, you canhavealotoffuntakingphotoswiththecouple.Thebestadvicewecangiveyouistotryandbringoutthepersonalityofthecouplebychoosingaspecificsettingand/oraddingprops.Alittlepre-planningforthesettingcanworkwondersforthefinalshots.Forexample, ifyourcouplehadamemorable firstdateat aburger restaurant,makeitapointtoshootinthislocation.Thenusethetipoutlinedinthischapter,“ShootWide Shot that Establishes the Scene” and place the restaurant in thebackground.You could also choose the “Frame the subject with aDoorway or Entryway”typeofshotandplaceyourcouplewithinthedoorwayoftherestaurant.Thesetypes of shotswill help to create a storywithin your engagement photos andyourengagedcouplewillloveyouforit!

ShootaWideShotthatEstablishestheSceneIt’salwaysagoodideatoshootanengagementphotothatshowcasesthecouplewithinthescenewherethephotowastaken.Not only does it serve as a reminder for the couple ofwhere the picture tookplace,italsosetsupclosershotsthataretocome.Great locations include: where the couple got engaged, where they will begettingmarried,afavoritehangoutspot,etc.

PhotobyTwoRingStudios

ChangePerspectiveforYourShotsAnotherideaistoaddvisualinterestbyshootingfromdifferentperspectives.Shoothighaboveandbelowyoursubjects.Alsogetdownto theireye level iftheyarelyingorsittingontheground.

PhotobyJonathanGagle

UseLeadingLinestoDrawtheEyestotheCoupleLook for leading lineswithin the scene toplaceyourcoupleonto.These lineswilldrawtheeyestotheengagedcouplewithinthephoto.

PhotobyDavidBracho

CreateMotion/ActionThis is an often missed engagement photography idea that adds life to yourphotos.Capture themomentofyourcouple jumping in theair,embracing inahug,orthrowingtheirhandsintheair.

PhotobyAbeams

FramethesubjectwithaDoorwayorEntrywayThis idea is self-explanatory. Look for ways to frame your couple within thescene.

PhotobyRobMcKaughan

UsetheforegroundtoAddInterestAddsomeforegroundelementstoyourengagementphotos.Shoottheelementssothattheyareoutoffocusandinfocus.

PhotobyJustinLucarelli

ShootFromBehindtheEngagedCoupleThisisanotheroftenmissedengagementphotoidea.Shootingfrombehindyourenragedcouplecanaddanicesenseofintimacy.

PhotobySrjfx

ShowcasetheCouple’sHobbiesThisideaissuretohelpyoustandoutfromotherphotographers.Ifyourcouplesharessimilarhobbiestakephotosshowcasingthem!

PhotobyCharlotteGeary

PhotographtheHandswiththeEngagementRingEvery engagement photo session has to showcase the engagement ring!Makesureyoualwaysgetthisshot.

PhotobyBrandynFidel

ShootOnlyfromtheWaistDownNot every shot has to show the couple’s faces. Shooting from thewaist downoffersabeautifulmixofmysteryandintimacy.Trythisphotoideaonyournextshoot!

PhotobyAllenormous

PhotographtheSnuggling/IntimacyShotThisisanobrainershot.Shootthecouplebeingintimate.

PhotobyTerraDawnPhotography

ShootaPowerfulSilhouetteYet another often missed opportunity. If possible, shoot a silhouette of thecouple.

PhotobyCharlotteGeary

AndFinally,GetCreative!Often the best ideas come from being creative! Think outside of the box andshootphotosthatuseselectivefocus,placingthecoupleatdifferentpartsoftheframe,usingtheirhands,andmore!

PhotobyCharlotteGeary

PhotobyJujuPhotography

WeddingPortraitsYearsagoitusedtobeenoughforaweddingphotographertojustcapturecertainmoments:thefirstdance,bridalpart,relatives,altar,etc. Ifyoudeliveredthesestandardshotstothebrideandgroomeveryonewashappy.But,that’snottrueanymore.Thebusinessofweddingphotographyhaschangedandpeopleexpectmorethesedays.Things have changed in wedding photography because DSLR cameras havebecome so inexpensive that many new photographers have entered into thebusiness:whichhasspurredalotofnewcreativeweddingphotoideas.Today,it’snotenoughtojustcapturethestandardphotosduringawedding.Youhave to offer something unique in a way of style to get and keep clients intoday’smarket.Inthischapter,we’regoingtogiveyouatonofuniqueandcreativephotoideasforweddingsthatyoucaninstantlystartusingtoimpressbridesandgrooms.Spiceitup!CaptureSomethingFunDon’t fall into the trap of assuming that wedding photos consist of only theintimatemomentsandtearfulones.Oneofthemostmissedopportunitiesataweddingiscapturingthefunmoments.Agreatphotographeralwayslooksforpeoplethatarehavingagoodtimebefore,duringandafterthewedding.Everybrideandgroomwantstolookbackatthephotosoftheirweddingdayrememberhowmuchfunpeoplewerehaving.It’saveryjoyoustimeforcoupleandthey’llthankyouimmenselyforcapturingthemomentsthesemomentsforthem.

As the wedding photographer you have a lot of influence over the bride andgroom.Don’thesitatetostageashotliketheonebelow.Simplyshareyourideaforaweddingphotowiththemandthey’llbesuretocooperate!

PhotobyPhotobysmoothdude

Askingthebridalpartytoformacircleandcapturingtheirfacesfrombelowisafunideaandeasytosetup.It’salsoagreatwaytobringoutthepersonalitiesinyour clients and helps to get the ball rolling for other creativewedding photoideas.

Photobylunahzon

Try to find a common theme among the bridal party and use it to youradvantage.Inthephotobelowyou’llseehowthephotographerhighlightedthefactthatthebride and bridesmaids were all wearing sunglasses. A novice photographerwould have just taken a candid photo showcasing this detail but thisphotographerplayeditupbyhavingthegirlsmakeafunfaceforthecamera.

PhotobySilvershot77

Wanttospiceupyourphotosevenmore?Trythisweddingphotoidea.Captureacouplephotoswithpeoplejumpingintheshot.Freezingmotionlikethiscreatesasenseofenergy inaphotoand instantlymakes itmoredynamic.Tryitwiththebrideandgroomaswellasthewholebridalparty!

PhotobyDanSkrobak

Lookforclustersofpeoplehavingagoodtimeandimpromptugroupsformedatawedding.They’resuretoofferplentyofopportunitiesforgreatshots!

PhotobyFayLim(Fly)

CreateaDoubleTake!UseReflectionsBynature,photographsareawayforpeopletoreflectonpastmomentsintime.Byaddingamirrororreflectivesurfacewithintheframecanaddawholeotherdimensiontothephoto.Before the ceremony is a great time to take advantage of the reflectiontechnique.Bridesarealwayssurroundedbymirrorswhiletheyaregettingreadyfor their big day. Find creative ways to include a mirror or other reflectivesurfacewithintheshot.

Photoby.darkchamber.

Lookforotherreflectivesurfaceswithinascenelikewaterorshinysurfaces.Thephotographerbelowpositionedthebrideandgroomsothattheirreflectionwasdisplayedwithinapuddleontheground.Ashinytablecanalsoserveasagreatsourceforcapturingreflectionsinweddingphotos.

PhotosbysmoothdudeandUniqueEffects

CaptureIntimateMomentsinaUniqueWay!Intimatemomentsbetweenabrideandgroomdon’talwayshappenatthealtar.Theyhappenthroughoutthewholeweddingday.Make sure you are always on the lookout for moments of intimacy sharedbetween a bride and groom.Often thesemoments are subtle and happen veryquickly.Soalwaysbeprepared!

Photobyntuvn

As we mentioned in our first wedding photo idea you’re in control as theweddingphotographer.Don’thesitatetostageanintimatemomentbetweenthecouple.Lookforinterestingsettingsthatyoucanuseasabackdroptohelpdressupthephotolikethephotographersdidintheimagesbelow.

Photobyfotura

ShowcaseTheDetails!Oneof themost fun things for a bride andgroom leadingup to awedding isplanningallthelittledetailsforthebigday.Alotofeffortgoesintodecidingthingsliketheweddingdress,tuxedo,flowers,decorfortheceremony,weddingrings,etc.Makesureyoucapturethesedetailstoremindthebridegroomofallthehardworktheyputintotheirbigday.But,toreallystandoutasaweddingphotographeryouneedtocapturecreativeshots!Youmay not know this butmany brides spend a lot of time looking for thatperfect pair of shoes to wear on their wedding day. This is a very importantdetail that you need to photograph. So do it in a unique way to help yourphotographystandout.

Photobyjonathanpenney11

Lookforothersmalldetailsduringaweddingthatotherphotographersmiss.A simple shot of the bride and groom holding hands, a close up of a uniqueperfume bottle and even the garter are great shots for you to get.Use awideapertureandzoominclosetocreateashallowdepthoffieldfortheseimportantdetailphotographs.

PhotobyAndreaCittadiniPhotography

PhotobyFrancescoMalpensi

Always,always,alwaysgetacreativeshotoftheweddingdressbyitself.Placingthedressinfrontofawindowandusingthebacklightingwillcreateanice glowing effect for the dress. This is one of themost important weddingphotoideasonourlist.Makesureyourememberit!

Photobydevotionphoto

Asyouphotographmoreandmoreweddingsyouwillnoticethatcertaindetailskeeppoppingup.Examplesof thisare theweddingcake,guestbook, toastingglasses andmore. Be sure to capture these items in a creativeway.A simplecloseupshotwithashallowdepthoffieldworkswondersfortheseobjects.

Photosbyasofterimage

CaptureOneofaKindShots!Doyoureallywanttosetyourselfapartfromotherweddingphotographers?Thenyouneedtocaptureoneofakindshotsthatnooneelseisphotographing.If therewas only one lesson you took from this post onwedding photo ideasthen this is the trick you need to take. Nothing impresses a bride and groommorethantakingafewphotographsthataresouniqueandunexpecteditblowsthem away. Below are some great examples of this technique. Use selectivecoloring,silhouettes,creativeangles,specialsetupswiththeringsandmore.

PhotobyDanielJafari

PhotosbyJustinLucarelliandAdrianRayfield

CaptureAVarietyofEmotions!Weddingsareaveryemotionaltimeforpeople.And, it’s these emotions that a bride and groom love to look back on as theybrowsethroughtheirweddingphotos.Weddingsprovidearollercoasterrideofemotionsforeveryoneincludinghappiness,sadness,joy,laughterandfun!Be sure to capture photos that showcase a variety of emotions that occurthroughout the day. Doing so will set your photos apart from other weddingphotographers.

Photobystudioephoto

PhotobyAndreaCittadiniPhotography

PhotobyHermanAu

PregnantandMaternityPortraitsA typeofphotography that isbecomingverypopular ispregnantphotography(alsoknownasmaternityphotography).Thisstyleisontherisebecausemanymothersseethevalueinhavingcapturememoriesofthisimportanttimeintheirlives.Asaphotographer,youshouldknowhowtotakegreatmaternityphotosbecauseyouneverknowwhenyou’llbeaskedtodoit!Inthischapter,we’llsharewithyouseveralmaternityandpregnantphotographyideas,tipsandtricks.

TakePhotosOutsideDon’tfallintothetrapofonlyshootingpregnantphotographyinsideastudio.Yes, itdoesensureasenseofprivacyfor themother,butyou’llbemissinganamazingopportunity.If you’re not shooting a partially (or fully) nude pregnancy photo you shouldtakeafewphotosoutside.There’ssomethingmagicalaboutcombiningthegreatoutdoorswiththenaturalbeautyofamotherwho’sbringinganewlifeintotheworld.You’llalsoseparateyourselffromotherphotographersthatusuallyforgettotakeadvantageofthisspecialopportunity.Belowareafewmaternityphotoideas.

Try to shootyour subject sitting in a fieldwhile lookingoff into thedistance,caressing her belly with an out of focus tree limb in the foreground or asilhouetteatsunset.

PhotosbyGrapevinePhotography,Foytography,Fboschman

ShootInsidetheHomeOne of themost comfortable places to photograph amother-t-be is inside herownhome.This isaplacesheknowswellandspendsmostofher timeduringpregnancy.The more relaxed you can make the mother the better pregnant photographyimagesyou’llget.Below, are twoexamplesof howyou can captureyour subject during ahomesession.Thebestplacesincludeabed,acouchorachair.

PhotosbyPBodyPhotos,TommyChambers

ShootCloseUpsoftheBellyOne of the most engaging shots new photographers miss when shootingmaternityphotosisacloseupofthebelly.Oftenalloftheirpregnancyphotosincludethemotherposedwithinascenethatcaptures thewholebodyand facial expression.Be aware that averypowerfulshotcancomefromshootingjustthehandsofthemotherholdingthebellywithhersoon-to-bebabygirlorboy.

PhotosbyAllyKeer,Studio08Photography,Mamique

HighlighttheCoupleWhile most of us think of just highlighting the mother-to-be in a pregnancyphotos,don’tneglectthefather!Withouthishelpthebabywouldnothavebeenconceived.Shootacoupleofframesthatshowcaseanintimatemomentbetweenthecouple.This is an amazing moment in the life of both the mother and father andcapturing photos that display their love for each other make for wonderfulphotos!

PhotosbyTenderPortraits

IncludetheSiblingsIf the mother has other children, be sure to include them within a couple offrames.They’re part of the family too and capturing a shot of the child (or children)givingattentiontosoon-to-bebrotherorsisterwillbeaphotothewholefamilylooksbackonforyearstocome.Ifthemother’sparentsorgrandparentsareanimportantpartoftheirlivesinvitethemtobeinafewphotosaswell.

TakeSexyorPartial/FullyNudesMaternityisoneofthemostnaturalandbeautifulmomentsinawoman’slife.Whiletheremaybetimesduringthepregnancythatthemotherdoesn’tfeelthemostbeautifulor sexy itsalwaysgreat forher tohavephotos to lookbackonthatshowcasehowbeautifulshereallywasduringthattimeinherlife.Ifyourmother-to-beiswillingandcomfortableenoughwithyoutrytocapturesomesexyphotos.Thesecanbepartialorfullynudepregnancyphotos.Theykeytogreatnudepregnantphotographyistoemphasisthemother’snaturalcurveswithin the frame.Use her clothing to accentuate the belly and breasts.Positionherlegssothattheyareelongatedinthephotos.

Photos by Ashley Gillett Photography, Bitsy Baby Photography [Rita],hellogorgeousphoto,BlondeShotCreative

NewbornandBabyPortraitsEveryparentwantsphotosoftheirnewbornbabysincethesearethefirstdaysofthepreciousone’slife.Babiescanoftengetuptosomeprettymischievousthings,butthey’llalsostaystilllongenoughforyoutogetsomegreatshots.Thesebabyphotographytipsaredesignedtogiveyousomegoodideaswhenitcomestophotographinginfants.

PhotosbyKaraDavisandVivianChen

PlanAheadMostparentshavealistintheirheadsofthetypesofimagesthey’dlikefortheirnewborn.It’sagoodideatotalkwiththeparentsaheadoftimeandjotthesedownsoyoudon’tforgetthem.Takethesimpleshotsfirst,suchasthebabysleepingoreatingorwhatevertheparents requested. Once you’ve completed the list you can start to get morecreativeandtakephotosofthenewborninmoreactivesituations.Intheseinstances,you’llhavefunjustwatchingthebabytoseewhatheorshegetsupto.Thenyoucancapturesomeamazingmomentstheparentshadnevereventhoughtabout.AHappyBabyistheMostPhotogenicBabyIfyourbabyiswellrested,haseaten,andisdry,thenheorshewillbealotmorecomfortableandwillingtoposeforphotos.To get a baby to smile, simply smile at them and see how they react. It’simportant that you never shake a baby. Just let them act naturally and bepreparedtocapturethemagicalmoments.ComePreparedwithaPrimeLensOneofthebestlensesforbabyphotographyisafastprimelens,somewhereinthe50to85mmrange.When capturing baby photos you do notwant to use a flash because it coulddamagetheinfant’seyes.Byusingaprimelensyoucantakeadvantageofawideraperturesetting(suchas f/1.2)whichwill let you take low-light shots aswell.Thiswill also enableyou to blur any distracting backgroundswhile the babywill be sharp and theonlyfocalpointoftheimage.CheckoutAmazon.comforthebestandcheapestprimelensesavailableforyourcamera.MakeUseofaZoomLensAttachingazoomlenswillenableyoutovarytheimage’scomposition.You’llbeabletogetcloseupshotsofvariousbodypartssuchashands,feet,theears,etc.Youcanthenzoomouttocapturethewholelengthofthebaby.

CameraSettingsManyphotographersusetheapertureprioritymodeonthecamerawhentakingshotsofbabies.Depth-of-fieldisusuallythemostimportantfactorforbabyportraits.Sincebabiesdon’tmovearoundthatfastshutterspeedchoiceisnotreallythatimportant.Ifyou’dliketoexperimentalittleyoucantrythemanualmodeontheaperturesetting.Ifyouadjustittof/4orevenf/5.6itwillallowyoutoaddacolorfulorinterestingbackgroundandmakeforamoredynamicimage.

UseEvenLightIt’simportanttouseevenlightwhentakingportraits.Youdon’twanttouseaflasharoundanewbornbaby.Notonlycoulditspoilthetoneandtextureoftheimage,butitcouldalsoharmthebaby’seyes.Trytousenaturallightwheneverpossiblefromawindowordoorway.Ifflashisneeded, you can try it after the baby is three months old, but make sure thepowersettingisonlow.

PhotosbyserenityphotographyltdandRubyLanePhotography

UsePropsInterestingandcreativebabyphotoscanoftenbecreatedbyusingprops.Puttingthebabyinacuteoutfitorplacingthebabyinsideofawrappedtowelmakefunportraits.Youcouldalsousethebaby’stoysandteddybears.Somepropscanbeusedforemphasizingthesizeofthetoddler.Experimentandhavefun!

UseBlackandWhiteThisisoftenapersonalpreference.However, some black and white images are much more dramatic and/oremotional.Don’tforget,it’salwaysbettertoshootincolorandchangethephotostoblackandwhitewithaphoto-editingprogramthantoshootblackandwhitenatively.Ifyoudon’tlikethewaytheblackandwhitephotocameoutit’snearimpossibletoreplacethecolor.

SizingUpYourBabyIt’softenfuntoshowjusthowsmallyourbabyreallyis.Thiscanbedoneeffectivelybytakingshotsofthebabywithhis/herparentsorothergrownups.Goodexamplesofthisareshotsofhandandfeetnexttotheirparent’s.CreateaScrapbooktoGainRepeatCustomersIt’softencommonforparentstokeeptrackoftheirchild’sheightbyplacingarulerortapemeasureonawall.Thesamecanbedonewiththegrowingofthebaby.Whendeliveringthefinalphotostotheparentsit’sagoodideatoalsogivethemascrapbookfullofphotosthatisusedtoshowoffdifferentages.Thisinexpensivegiftcouldhelpyoutogainrepeatcustomersastheparentswillwant to fill out the scrapbook with professional photos as their child reachesthesemilestoneages.

FamilyPortraitsFamilyportraitscanbetakenatanytimeoftheyearandonanyoccasion.Thesedaysyou’llfindmostfamilieslovetobespontaneouswhenitcomestimetogetinfrontofthecamera.In thischapter,we’llsharewithyousomeuniquefamilyphotoshoot ideasforyoutouseonyournextshoot.

ChoosingaLocationOf course, youdon’t have to take family shots at home as they’re ideal in alltypesoflocationsandcanbetakenatavarietyofevents.For example, family field trips are quite popular as you’ll have the chance tocaptureafamilyinavarietyofscenarios.Anythinggoesreallywhenitcomestofamilyphotosasthepossibilitiesaresimplyendless.Wherever the family goes can be viewed as a mobile studio. The age of thefamilymembers and their interestswill often dictatewhere they visit and canoftenleadtosomeinspirationalsettings.For example, think of the endless possibilities of a family at a zoo or anamusementpark.Thesetypesoffamilyphotoshootideascanbejusttheticket!Takingphotos at home isusually the easiestoption if the familymembers areyounger and live under the same roof. This is because everybodywill feel atease as they’re smack dab in the middle of familiar and comfortablesurroundings.Again,everyroomcanbeviewedasastudioascanthefrontandbackyardetc. Taking photos at homewill allowyou to capture the family astheygoabouttheirnaturaldailyroutineswhichcanalwaysbenice.

PhotobyEvilErinGetInspirationfromtheFamilyMembersDon’tbeafraidtobecreativeandlistentothefamily’sideaswhenitcomesto

uniqueimages.For instance, if theywant topitcha tent in themiddleof the living roomandhaveeverybodypileintoitthengoforit.Also,don’thesitate toheadoutdoors foryourphotoshoot.Peopleusually feellessinhibitedandembracetheirfreedomwheninwideopenspaces.Thenaturallightisgenerallymoreflatteringaswellandthereisusuallyanendlesssupplyofpropsthatcanbeused.

AddInterestwithPropsThetypeofpropsyoucanusewillgenerallybedictatedonyoursetting.Ifyou’retakingphotosatthebeachyoucouldconsiderthingssuchasseashells,beachballs,umbrellas,andlifeguardtowersetc.Thebeachandanyotherplacenearwater,suchasaswimmingpoolandlakeareidealforfamilyshootssincemostpeoplearenaturallydrawntowater.Infact,youmayevenwanttotakesomeunderwaterphotosifyouhavetherighttypeofcamera.Justtrynottooverdoitwiththepropsastoomanyofthemcanmaketheimagelooktoobusy.

NaturalPosesareBetter

PhotobyvonderauvisualsYoumaynotwanttogooverboardonthestandardforcedstyleposessinceitcanbemuchnicertocapturethefamilymemberswhiletheyactnaturally.Trytousemoreofaphotojournalismstyleandapproach.Ittendstoworkbetterthesedays.Ifyoucancapturephotosthatrepresentthepersonalityofthefamilyand its members then you’ll both likely be happier with the outcome. Forinstanceifthefamilylovescampingthenyoumaywanttorepresentthisinyourshots.

PhotobyBrendonToPlanorNottoPlanSome photographers prefer to plan out their family photo shootswhile othersjustprefertotakethingsastheycomeandusewhateverlocationandpropstheymayhaveathand.Thebestimagesareusuallyonesinwhichyouletyourimaginationrunwildandthe ideas justhappen tocome toyouwhileyou’reholding thecamera inyourhands.

StudioPhotographyTipsIfyou’vebeenshootingmostlylocationshotsyou’llquicklyfindthatitisquitedifferentfromstudiophotography,especiallywhenitcomestoportraits.The studio is definitely a controlled situation where artificial lighting can bemanipulated and suitable backgrounds created. For some reason photo studiosoftenintimidatephotographers.Inthischapterweofferareafewtipstohelpyoufeelmoreateaseandconfident.It’stheirturnSincephotostudioshavealimitedamountofspaceyou’lloftenfindthatyou’llbedirectlyinfrontofyourmodel.You’llonlybeabletomovebackwardandforward.Youmightnotbeabletomoveleftorrightdependingonspacelimitationsandyourlightingsetup.Ifthisisthecaseyou’llneedtoaskyourmodeltoturntogettheproperangleasopposedtoyoumovingaroundtogetthebestposition.Agreat resource for portrait posing is a free tutorial on ourwebsite called 35PhotographyPosingTipsandTricks.Checkitoutforinspiration.

CommunicationIt’simportanttobeabletocommunicateproperlywithyourmodel.Insteadofaskingthemtoturnleftorright,whichwouldbetheoppositeforthephotographer, it’sabetter ideatoaskthemtoturneitherclockwiseorcounter-clockwisesincethisdirectionisthesameforthemodelandphotographer.Agoodtrickistophysicallymoveyourbodyinthedirectionthatyouwantthemodel tomirror.Sometimeswordscanbeinterpreteddifferentlysobymovingyourbody into thepositionyouwant themodel tobe incanbeveryeffectivecommunication.

PrimeLensesareBestBecause you’re working in a studio, there really isn’t much need for using azoomlens.If possible, try to stickwith prime lenses since they usually provide youwithsharperimages.Primelensesalsoallowyoutoopentoaverywideaperturesuchasf/1.2.Themostcommonlensesforstudioportraitphotographyareanywherefrom50mmto200mm.Thedepthofyourphotographystudiowilldeterminetheproperlensforyoutopurchase.CheckoutAmazon.comforthebestandcheapestprimelenses.

FindEyeLevelIt’simportanttotakeyourphotofromtherightheight.Mostportraitsaremoreeffectivewhenshotateyelevelofthemodel.Togettotherightlevelyoumayneedtocrouchdownorevensteponastool.Ifyou’retooloworhightheportraitmaynotturnoutaswellasyouhoped.FocusontheModel’sEyesWhen you’re at the right height, you should make sure you focus on yourmodel’seyessincetheytelltheperson’sstory.Thisshouldbedonenomatterthedepth-of-fieldorapertureyoudecideon.Inaphotographaviewer’seyesautomaticallygo to themodel’seyes.Besuretheyareinfocusbeforetakingtheshot.Evenintheworstcasescenariowhereaphoto has sharp eyes and slightly out of focus nose, ears, shoulders or neck(from tooshallowdepth-of-field)aviewer is less likely toobject thanaphotowithasharpnoseandoutoffocuseyes.

CameraSettingsSincestudiophotographerscanmanipulatethelightingtotheirneeds,mostoftentheywill use the camera’smanualmodewith their ISOsettingat100and theshutter speed set to 1/125th of a second. If strobe lighting is used then thedifferencebetweenshootingat1/100th,1/125th,1/160thand1/200thofasecondwon’tbenoticeable.

UseaLightMeterWithamulti-lightstudiosetupit’sagoodideatousealightmeter.Thiswillhelpwithfindingtheproperexposure.Itwillsimplymakethingsaloteasierthanjustrelyingonreadingthehistogram.

UseaCustomWhiteBalanceThe color output of the studio strobe lights can be affected by lightmodifierssuchassoftboxes,snootsandumbrellas.If youuse a customwhite balanceprior to eachphotoyou’ll get the best andmost accurate color representation possible. This will also save time in post-productionwheneditingyourphotos.Itisonelessstepyouwillhavetotakeincolorcorrection.

UseaSingleLightSomepeopleliketousejustonelight.This was made popular by Helmut Newton, who was famous for fashionphotography.By using one light and changing angles, you should be able to produce somestunning and dramatic shadows. Even though your studio may be filled withstrobelightsitdoesn’tmeanyouhavetousethemtogetanexcellentportrait.Relax,TakeYourTimeDon’trushthingsinthestudio.Takethetimetomakesureeverything’sinworkingorderandinplace.Staycalmandtrytokeeprelaxedandthiswillhelpyourmodeldothesame.

LowLightPortraitTipsSomeofthehardestphotostotakearethoseinlowlightconditions.Inthischapter,we’regoingtoteachyousomelowlightportraitphotographytipsthatwillhelpyoucapturethebestlookingportraitsinlowlightsituations.HowtoGetGoodShotsWITHOUTUsingaFlash1.SettheISOashighasyoucanwithoutcreatingtoomuchnoiseintheimage.Afteracertainlevelyou’llnoticeahighISOwillturnthephotosgrainy.Somecamerasmayonlygoupto1600whileothersmaygoallthewayto6400.The level of noise that is acceptable to you will be a personal choice, butremember,youshouldbeabletofiltersomeofitoutbyusingapost-processingphoto-editing program. If you shoot in the RAW mode, you’ll have a betterchanceofadjustingthenoiseafterwards.2. It’s important to open up the aperture to enablemore light into the cameralens.Remember,thelowertheaperturenumber,themorelightyou’relettingin.Forinstance,f/2.8letsinalotmorelightthenf/5.6.In low light settings open your aperture to its widest setting. For moreinformationonmaximizingtheaperturesetting,checkoutourcompanionbook,Mastering Aperture in Digital Photography (Available on the Amazon.comstore.)3.Ifpossible,slowtheshutterspeeddownasthiswillalsoallowmorelightintothelens.Thisiseasytodoinlowlightportraitphotographybecausethesubjectwon’tbemoving.However,foractionshots,youneedtouseafastshutterspeed.Youcouldalsousethecamera’simagestabilizationmodeifithasoneoratripodtosteadythecamera if theshutterspeedresults invisibleblurrinesscausedbycamera shake.Try starting at 1/60thof a second andgo from there.Formoreinformationonmaximizingtheshutterspeedsetting,checkoutourcompanionbook, Mastering Shutter Speed in Digital Photography (Available on theAmazon.comstore.)4.Ifthecamerahasthecapabilityofexposurecompensationyoucanoverexposetheshotsonpurpose.ManymodernDSLRcamerashaveascalefrom-3to+3.Ifyousettheexposurecompensationdialtothepositivesideyoushouldbeabletoachievethis.

5.Ifthereisanavailablelightsource,suchasawindow,positionyoursubjectsothattheyareclosertoitandthelightisshiningontheirface.Always shoot with the light source coming from behind the camera. Neverphotographapersoninalowlightsettingwiththemainlightsourcepositionedinfrontofthecameraandbehindthesubject,otherwisewillendupcapturingasilhouettephotosincethebackgroundisbrighterthanyoursubject.

Noticehow in thephotoon the left thephotographerpositioned thesubjectascloseaspossibletotheavailablelightcomingfromthewindow.Anoff-cameraflash(mentionedbelow)couldhavealsobeenusedtohelpbrightenthedetailswithin the shadows. In the photo on the right the photographer positioned theavailable light source (possibly a candle or flashlight) below the girl to helpilluminateherface.Detailsinthehairarenotneedasthefocalpointisherface.

Photosbybloowittandrachelsian.

UsingaFlashinLowLightSituationsIf a flash is needed, it’s a good idea to skip the pop-up typeon the camera ifpossible since these can sometimes flatten the image somewhat since the lightwillbedirectlyhittingyoursubject.Anoff-cameraflashisabetteroptionforalowlightportraitasyoucananglethelightwithit.Most subjects look more flattering when the flash is angled from a 45 to 90degree angle. You can lessen harsh shadows by using a diffuser or bouncingflashlightoffofawallorsomeothersurfaceorobject.

Photosbyaranyemberandelfmage.In the imagesabove, theoneon the leftusedahard light flash fromabove toilluminate thesubjects. Inaddition to illuminating the faces, thepositioningofthe light above alsohelpsbringout thedetails in the clothingby castinghardshadows.Intheimageontherightahardflashwaspositionedtotheleftofthesubjectandslightlyaboveeyelevelpointingdown.Anotherdiffusedflashwaspossiblyusedandpositionedtotherightofthesubjectandathalfpowertohelpbrightentheshadowsandbringoutdetailswithinthedress.Ifapop-upflashwasused or off camera flash positioned straight on to the subjects it would haveresultedinaflatimagewithoutrenderingdetailsfromshadowsasseeninthesephotos.To learnmore aboutHardLight vs. SoftLight in Photography, check out ourfreetutorialonthesubjecthere.

FocusinginLowLightSometimes it seems impossible to focus on a subject in low light situations.Especiallywhenit’sreallydark.Ifyouhaveahardtimefocusingonapersoninalowlightsituation,agoodtipis to shine a flashlight on them. Then make your focus adjustments. Oncecomplete,turnthelightoffandthentakeyourphoto.You’dbesurprisedhowsimplethistrickreallyisandhowmanyphotographersdon’tevenknowaboutit!Thephotobelowcanhelpyouunderstandthegeneralideaofusingaflashlightto illuminate your subject in order to see clearly through your viewfinder toadjustproperfocus.

SilhouettePortraitsAverypowerful,yetoftenneglectedphototechniqueissilhouettephotography.Silhouettephotosarevisuallypowerfulbecausetheycombinesimplicitywithasenseofmysteryanddrama.Notbeingabletoseethedetailsofthemainsubjectcausestheviewer’smindtowanderandcreatetheirownstorywithinanimage.Like many photographers, you’ve probably seen great silhouette photographyandoftenwondered“howdidtheydothat?”In this chapter, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know aboutshooting silhouette portraits.Once youmaster this technique you’ll be sure tohave a photo album full of intriguing photos that will take peoples’ breatheaway!ChoosingaSubjectforSilhouettePhotographyThe best silhouette photos include a strong subject.When choosing a subjectmakesurethatithasastrongandrecognizableshape.Youwantyourviewerstoinstantlyknowwhatthesubjectisbyitsdarkoutline.Iftheshapeisambiguousorhardtomakeoutyou’llloseyourviewersinterest.Ifyou’regoingtoincludemorethanonesubjectinyoursilhouetteportraitmakesuretokeepthemseparated.Ifyouhaveonesubjectinfrontofanotherthentheywillendupmergingtogetherandcouldconfuseyourviewerbynotrecognizingtheshape.

Forexample, take thephotoonthe leftbelowof thesilhouetteof themanandthecross.Noticehowseparationmakeseachobjectrecognizable.Contrast that with the photo on the right. We can tell from the hair in thesilhouette that it’s of a person but can’t really tellwhat they are doing. Theiroutlinehasmergedwithotherobjectsandhasmadethemunrecognizable.

Photosbylen4itaandMikeSaechang

LightingYourSubjectTocreateasilhouetteyouneedtohavethemainsourceoflightshiningonthebackofyoursubject,notthefront.When positioned correctly the light will be shining toward your camera. It’susually best to have your subject stand directly in front of your light source,howeverhavingthelightslightlyaboveortothesidecanalsowork.

Photosbyhessamandsmik67It’salsoimportanttoturnoffyourflashinsilhouettephotography.If your camera is in an automatic or semi-automatic mode it may try tocompensate for the lack of lighting on the front of your subject by firing theflash.Insilhouettephotographyyourgoalistohaveaslittlelightonthefrontofyoursubjectaspossible–soturntheflashoff.Thisbookassumes thatyouhaveagoodunderstandingofcameraexposure. Ifyouhavetroublefindingtherightexposureforanimageorarenotexactlysurehow to create the silhouette effect, check out our companion book,MasteringExposure inDigitalPhotography (Availableon theAmazon.comstore.) Itwillteach you everything you need to know about achieving proper exposure foryourphotos.

FramingtheSilhouetteWhenframingyoursilhouetteyoucanfollowthestandardphotographyruleofthirdsorbecreative.It’suptoyou!Justmakesureyouachieveaproperbalanceinyourshot.Formoredetailsoncomposingbetterphotographs,checkoutourcompanion book, Mastering the Art of Composition in Digital Photography(AvailableontheAmazon.comstore.)

FocusingFocusingisfairlyeasy.Justsetyourfocussothatit’sonyourmainsubject.Thiswillrenderanoutlineof a black subject that is nice and sharp. Focusing anywhere else could causeyoursubjecttohaveablurryoutlineandreducethepowerofthephoto.AchievingProperExposureinSilhouettePhotographyProper exposure is achieved in silhouette portraits when the main subject iscompletelyblackanddetailscanbeseenwithinoraroundthelightsource.Ifdonecorrectly,apartialsilhouettewheresomeofthedetailscanbeseeninthesubjectcanalsobeaniceshot.Sometimesatouchoflightonthemmakesthemslightlymorethreedimensionalandreal.Here’showyouachieveproperexposure:First,chooseanaperture.Theapertureyouchooseisreallydependentupontheperspectiveanddepthofyourshot.Ifthebackgroundisfarawayfromthesubjectthenyoushouldchoosea higher f/stop number (ex. f/22).Thiswillmaximize your depth of field andrenderasharpforegroundandbackground.Ifthebackgroundisrelativelycloseto the subject a lower f/stopnumber canbe chosen sincedepthof field is notmuchofanissue(ex.f/8).Second,useyourcamera’slightmetertodetermineshutterspeed.Pointyourcamera’s lightmeter toward the lightsource in thebackgroundandthenzoomintofilltheframe.Next,adjustyourcamera’sshutterspeedsothatitreadsaproperexposure.Whenyouzoombackout toadjustyour framingandthentaketheshotthebackgroundwillbeexposedproperlytoshowdetailwhilethesubjectwillbecompletely(oralmost)black.

PhotosbyCalhounAbbottandStrikingPhotographybyBob

AdditionalTipsandTricksThelessonstaughtwithinthisbookarejustthetipoftheicebergwhenitcomestolearningphotography.Therearealwaysnewtipsandtricksyoucanlearntohelpmasteryourcraftasaphotographer.Asanaccompanimenttothisbook,wehaveputtogetherawebsitethatwillhelpyoucontinueonyourjourneyofbecomingabetterphotographer.Weinviteyouto visit it at FreeDigitalPhotographyTutorials.com. You will find a wealth ofother tips, tricksand tutorialsonphotography that areupdatedeveryweek forfree!Ifyouhaveanyquestionsabouttheinformationprovidedwithinthisbookoronourwebsite,pleasecontactusatinfo@freedigitalphotographytutorials.com.

OneLastThing…Ifyoufoundthisbookhelpfulinanywaypleaseconsiderpostingareviewintheamazonstore.Booksliketheserelyonreaderreviewstogetnoticedbytherestofthecommunity.Also,ifyouhaveanyfriendsorknowofotherphotographersthatcouldbenefitfromtheinformationinthisbook,pleaserecommendittothem.

OtherBooksonPhotography

MasteringApertureinDigitalPhotography

AvailablehereonAmazon.comOneofthemajorproblemsphotographersfaceisnotknowinghowtochoosetherightcameraaperturefortheirphotos.It'softenthataphotographerwillwanttocaptureascene,suchasalandscape,that’sclearlyfocusedthroughouttheframe.However,what usually happens is that only the trees in the foreground are infocusandthemountainsinthebackgroundareoutoffocusorviceversus.Thephotohastooshallowdepthoffieldasopposedtoadeepdepthoffield.Whatwentwrong?We’llteachyouinthisbook.

Othertimes,aphotographertriestocapturethatclassic"portraitlook"withthesubjectinperfectfocuswhilethebackgroundisoutoffocusandblurred.Whattendstohappenhereisthateverythingturnsouttobeinfocus.Howcanthisbefixed?You’lllearnwhattodointhisbook.Ourintentionwiththisbookistotakethemysteryoutofhowtousetheaperturesetting on your camera. Throughout these pages we’ll teach you digitalphotographytipsandtricksonhowtomastertheaperturesettingsothatyouendupwiththetypesofshotsyouintended.Bytheend,you’llknowexactlyhowtominimizeormaximizethedepthoffieldwithintheframe.

MasteringShutterSpeedinDigitalPhotography

AvailablehereonAmazon.com

Oneofthebiggestchallengesphotographersfaceistryingtocaptureactionandmotion. Moving subjects are troublesome for photographers because theyusuallyresultinanimagethatistooblurry.Othertimes,thephotographerwantstoemphasizethemotionblurwithintheframebutendsupwithaphotothathasfrozentheobjectintime.

Thetricktofixingthesetypesofproblemsisbymanipulatingshutterspeed.Ourintentionwiththisbookistotakethemysteryoutofhowtousetheshutterspeedsettingonyourcamera.Inthesepageswe’llteachyouhowtomastertheshutterspeedsettingandhowtomanipulateitsothatyouendupwiththetypesofshotsyouintended.Bytheend,you’llknowexactlyhowtofreezetheactionwithinaframeorallowittoblurforcreativeeffectusingfastshutterspeedandslowshutterspeedsettings.

MasteringExposureinDigitalPhotography

AvailablehereonAmazon.comOneofthemajorproblemsphotographersfaceisnotknowinghowtoproperlyexposeaphoto.Often, a photographer will go out into the field, snap a few photos and bedisappointed with the results. Sometimes the photos turn out darker thanintended,whileothersturnouttoobright.Itseemstobejustpureluckthatanyphotosevercomeoutwith thecorrectexposure,buteven if theydosomecanstillusealittletweakingtobe“perfect.”Thetricktofixingtheseproblemsisbyunderstandingexposure.Whatmanynewphotographersdon’tknow is that therearecertain things thatyoumustthinkaboutinregardstotheexposureofaphotographbeforeyouevertake it. In fact, several concepts and camera settingsmust bemastered beforeyoucaneventhinkaboutcreatingaproperlyexposedimage.We’llteachyouthesethingsinthisbook.

MasteringCompositioninDigitalPhotography

AvailablehereonAmazon.com

Oneof themajorproblemsphotographers face isnotknowingwhat it takes tocompose a great photo.Often, a photographerwill spend long days capturingphotos only to return with a set of images that he or she is not completelysatisfiedwith.Sure,thelightingandexposuremayhaveturnedoutgreat,buttheoverallcompositionofthephotosleavessomethingtobedesired.Inshort,theylackthat“wow”factorthattheyseeinotherphotographers’shots.

Compositionisthefoundationinwhichgreatphotographyisbuiltupon.Aphotomay be properly lit and contain good subjectmatter, but if it is doesn’t havegoodcomposition itwillneverbeconsideredmore thananamateurshot.Howcanyouovercomethis?We’llteachyouinthisbook.

MasteringPhotographySeriesAvailablehereonAmazon.comThis is a collection of all four books in our Mastering Photography series:Mastering Aperture, Mastering Shutter Speed, Mastering Exposure andMasteringCompositioninDigitalPhotography.

Now, you have at your fingertips a complete guide that's jam packed withphotographytips,tricksandlessonsonhowtocapturebetterphotography.You'lllearncreativephotographytechniques that instantly transformyourphotos intosomethingamazingtolookat!

Photography101 forBeginners:PhotographyBasics onHow toUseYourDSLRCameraAvailablehereonAmazon.comAsanewphotographeryou’vegottostartsomewhere.

And, that’s the purpose of this book. To provide you with an introduction tophotographyandgetyoustartedonthepathtobecomingagreatphotographer!

Within the pages of this Photography 101 for Beginners Guide you’ll findeverythingyouneedtoknowasabeginningphotographer.You’lllearnallofthecommon terms and definitions related to photography, enabling you tounderstandandspeakthelingo.You’llalsolearndigitalphotographybasicsonexposure and how different settings, such as aperture, shutter speed and ISOaffectaphotograph’soutcome.

We’llalsoteachyouaboutthevariousexposuremodesonyourDSLRcamera,includingthemanualmodeandsemi-automaticmodes.Ifyou’veneverheardof(or were confused by) the aperture priority and shutter priority modes, don’tworrybecausewe’llteachyouallabouttheminthisbook.

TableofContentsIntroductionPortraitPosingGuidesModelPortraitsGlamourPortraitsModelPortraitsontheBeachOutdoorBoudoirPortraitsEngagementPortraitsWeddingPortraitsPregnantandMaternityPortraitsNewbornandBabyPortraitsFamilyPortraitsStudioPhotographyTipsLowLightPortraitTipsSilhouettePortraitsAdditionalTipsandTricksOneLastThing…OtherBooksonPhotography