+ RSSPortrait Photography Basic Principles
A portrait is a picture taken of a person or small group focusing on their face or expression while they are in a still position, also known as portraiture. The personality, mood and likeness of the person or group will be presented. You can also include the whole body and background in portrait photography as well. When taking a portrait photo the person or group is generally looking strait at the camera.
Non-professional models are used for portrait photography, unlike other styles of photography. 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. It was, and is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted and it is a more available method. Natural light was used from an open window and people would sit against the background. Portrait photography can now be more creative with the way technology has evolve since they can adjust light and move around more.
Methods of Light
A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait photographs in a studio. They can change the direction and the intensity. Kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main lights are a few of the different lighting terms.
The most important light source is obviously referred to the main light. It is usually at a 45 degree angle of the subject but it can also be positioned above or below as well.The main light can create shadows so the fill light helps to eliminate them. 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. To add effects to the backdrops the background light is used to brighten up the background.
