Portrait Photography 101

Posted by | Posted on 12:16 AM

By John Miller

A portraiture, simply known as a portrait, is a picture that shows a person or small group's facial expression while they are in a still position. The person or group's personalities, moods & likeness come out. Aside from the face, portrait photography can also show the whole body and the background of the subject. The person or group is usually looking straight at the lens in a portrait photograph.

Unlike other styles of photography, portrait photography doesn't usually include professional models. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, & weddings and are usually displayed in private homes. Numerous are done on studio with several backgrounds to choose from.

The History of Portrait Photography

Ever since the camera was invented people have been using portrait photography. 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 & move around more.

Portrait Photography Styles

Portrait photos can be done in a studio where the photographer can adjust the light when capturing portraits. They can change the intensity and the direction. Kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main lights are just some of the several lighting terms.

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. To add effects to the backdrops the background light is used to brighten up the background.

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