Portrait Photography: Basic Info
A photograph that shows a person or small group’s facial expression while they are in a still position is known as a portrait, or portraiture. The person or group’s personalities, moods and likeness shine through. Portrait photography doesn’t always have to be just a face within a photo–the whole body and the background can be included as well. When shooting a portrait picture the person or group is usually looking straight at the camera.
Unlike other styles of photography, portrait photography doesn’t usually include professional models. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, and weddings & are usually displayed in private homes. Some 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 and not as available. Natural light was used from an open window & 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.
Styles
A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait pictures in a studio. They can change the intensity and the direction. Background lights, kicker lights, fill lights & the main lights are just some of the several lighting terms.
The most important light source is obviously known as the main light. The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject and at a 45 degree angle.The fill light is used to help eliminate shadows that are created by the main light. The light that brightens up the hair of the subject is the kicker light. 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.
