Portrait Photography – Basic Information
A photograph focusing on a person or small group’s facial expression while they are in a still position is known as a portrait, or portraiture. The personality, moods & likeness of the person or persons come through. Aside from the face, portrait photography can also include the entire body and the background of the subject. When taking a portrait photograph the person or group is usually looking straight into the camera.
Portrait photography, unlike other styles uses non-professional models. Graduations, special events and weddings are types of occasions where portrait photography is used, and later displayed in private homes. Many are done on studio with several backgrounds to choose from.
A Bit of History
People have been using portrait photography ever since the camera was invented. Having your portrait painted was expensive & not as available. Natural light was used from an open window and people would sit against the background. With technology evolving photographers have the power to take pictures with less exposure time giving them more freedom to move around and create new styles of portrait photography.
Using Light In Portrait Photography
A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait photos in a studio. They can change the intensity and the direction. Different lighting terms include kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main light.
The main light is the primary light source. It is usually at a 45 degree angle of the subject but it can also be positioned above or below as well.The fill light is used to help eliminate shadows that are created by the main light. The kicker light is the light that brightens up the hair of a subject. This will help to add depth and to show the separation from the subject and the background. A Background light brightens the background and can add effects to the backdrops.
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Author: Sam Riley
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