4 tips to create stunning portrait photography from home
Portrait photography might seem tricky because of all the required aspects: flawless lighting, professional models, and a high-end camera. But you don’t need to rent a photography studio or buy top-level accessories for your camera to create high-quality pictures. Follow these tips and start experimenting and creating mind-blowing portrait photographs wherever you are.
1. Use natural lighting
Light is one of the most essential aspects you need to consider when shooting portrait photography. The type of light and how it interacts with your subject can significantly impact your photos. Even if you don’t own continuous lights or reflectors, you can use natural light resources to your advantage and avoid hours and hours of digital editing.
Find a window, and you will have your own natural light source. Wait until the time of the day when the light gets softer and doesn’t create harsh shadows and contrasts in your model’s face. Have you ever heard about the golden hour? It’s the moment just before sunrise or right after sunset when the light is at its warmest and softest. Try to use this time to place your model at a 45-90º angle to where the light is striking and start shooting your photographs.
2. Search for plain backgrounds
Look for rooms with plain walls that won’t distract from your subject. Neutral colors like black, white, or grey will favor any type of face, but remember to place your subject distant enough from the wall to avoid unwanted shadows. If your home lacks a room with these features, it’s okay – you can still remove anything you need to with digital photo editors.
3. Go for wide aperture
If you have a reflex camera or any camera that allows you to change the aperture, use a wide setting (a low f/ number) to blur out the backgrounds and bring your model’s face upfront. Cleverly using your camera’s depth of field will help you achieve the professional look you’re going for, and nobody will notice that your photographs were taken in your house!
4. Add personality to your pictures
You can further personalize your photographs and make them unique through accessories and atrezzo around your house. Get inspired by a specific theme (check out our article on autumn color trends if you haven’t) to add some personality to your photos. Messing around with food or cutlery would be a great way to create kitchen-themed photographs.
Taking portrait photos is a fun and enjoyable way to explore your creativity. And, as you can see, there’s no need for a professional photography studio to create stunning pictures.
Simply follow these steps and start experimenting. With passion and practice, you will soon have your own portrait collection – and the results might surpass your expectations!
Grab your camera, and don’t forget to share your creations with us. See you in our next post.
