If you are just starting out or have been shooting portraits with your digital camera for years, there are always some new tips to learn and techniques to utilize. From choosing the right location to perfecting the lighting, there are many methods to enhance a photograph. Below are three of the most important ideas to keep in mind when taking someone’s portrait.

How to Shoot the Best Portrait

1. Choose the Background Wisely

The background should not detract from the subject, but it should enhance them. You do not want to include too much color or texture. However, there is an art to adding a little pop. For example, a rustic wood background or a painted fence can add interest and depth to a photo. Try to keep the background consistent around the entire subject. You do not want it to vertically or horizontally cut the person off.

2. Place Your Subject

Once you have chosen your background, you can now place your subject in a camera-ready pose, ready for the shoot. When positioning, you may benefit from having them stand to one side of the frame, not right in the middle. This “rule of thirds” is often more appealing to a viewer’s eye as it usually makes the photo appear more balanced. After your subject is perfectly in position, pick up your digital camera and zoom in and out to capture the right depth for your photo.

3. Perfect the Lighting

Never assume that you can just fix the lighting in your editing session after you have taken the photo. It is not always that easy, especially when shadows are involved. Think about the lighting cast on your subject and the background. A general rule of thumb is to avoid shooting portraits in direct sunlight. This will detract from the subject’s features and create strong shadows on their face.

Natural lighting is the best form of lighting. Take your digital camera with you to shoot during early morning or late afternoon timeframes for the best effect. The sun should most often stay behind the subject when you shoot their photo, creating a slight glow that makes them pop.

If you do shoot this way, you will most likely need the assistance of a fill light. A reflector will absorb the sunlight and bounce it off the subject’s face and fill in any shadows. Reflectors will also help soften and even out the lighting around the subject. If you do not have access to a reflector, you can improvise with a white sheet of paper or a larger piece of white cardboard.

For more advice on shooting digital camera portrait photography, visit The Shutterbug. For over 45 years, they’ve helped customers in and around Salem, Portland, and Eugene, OR, with all their photography needs. Whether you want a new camera or a photo printing class, they can help. Visit their website for print order inquiries, or call (503) 227-3456 with any questions you have.