10 tips for taking better portraits / Sonja Valdin
One of my favorite things is to shoot relaxed and fun portraits in natural light.
These images I took of the Icelandic actor Sonja Valdin in Reykjavík old harbour. This photoshoot was so much fun!
SCROLL DOWN FOR MY 10 TIPS ON HOW TO GET THE BEST OUT OF YOUR OWN PORTRAIT SESSION.
Get to know your model before the shoot. If you don’t know your model take a moment before the actual shoot to talk. Ask about their day and show interest, this will help them feel comfortable and eases communication during the shoot.
Use natural light whenever possible. Move around your location and try different spots to find the best light. Remember that the light doesn’t always need to be directly on the model, many times indirect light is the most flattering. So step into the shadow if the day is bright.
Choose a location that matches the clothes and the styling of your model. When taking portraits it’s important that the background supports your subject. I like to play with colors and make sure the shades the model is wearing goes well together with the background.
Give your model directions, but not too much. It’s a fine line between what is too much and what is too little and it also depends on the person on how much support they need in finding the best poses. I usually like to give my models pretty general ideas of how to move, because if the directions are too specific the model might end up looking stiff and uncomfortable.
Remember to give feedback! Constantly communicate with your model and never hide behind your camera. I like to keep a small conversation going through the whole photoshoot, show my appreciation to the model and make sure they feel comfortable at all times.
Let your models personality show! Every person will have their own poses, angles and expressions that works best for them. Be quick to figure out what is most flattering for the person you are photographing and try to guide them into those poses and angles as much as possible.
Try different things. Sometimes the weirdest things will turn out looking amazing in pictures.
Understand body language. Even the smallest change in how your model is carrying themselves can make an enormous different in what kind of story the final image will tell. Pay attention to the hands, your model might not always know what to do with them.
Listen to your model and be respectful. The photoshoot is usually not about you, so always listen to the models wishes and thoughts. Your model might have some great ideas and it will definitely make working together much more fun and relaxed!
Have a lot of fun! A portrait session is rarely dead serious business, so smile, laugh and make the whole situation an enjoyable experience.
