Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Learn About Portrait Photography

By Cherry Murray


A photo centering on 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. Aside from the face, portrait photography can also include the whole body and the background of the subject. When shooting a portrait picture the person or group is usually looking straight at the lens.

Non-professional models are used for portrait photography, unlike other styles of the art. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, & weddings & are usually displayed in private homes. Some are done on studio with several settings to choose from.

A Bit of History

Ever since the invention of the camera people have been using portrait photography. It was, and is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted & it is a more available method. 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 & the direction. Kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main lights are a few of the different 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 placed 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 & to show the separation from the subject & the background. To add effects to the backdrops the background light is used to brighten up the background.




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