Sunday, November 6, 2011

What Is Portrait Photography?

By Cherry Murray


A portraiture, simply known as a portrait, is a photo centering a person or small group's facial expression while they are in a still position. The person or group's personalities, moods and likeness come through. Portrait photography doesn't always have to be just a face inside a photograph; the whole body and the background can be included too. When shooting a portrait photo the person or group is usually looking straight into 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, and weddings and are usually displayed in private homes. Some are done on studio with several backgrounds to choose from.

A Bit of History

Ever since the camera was invented people have been using portrait photography. Having your portrait painted was expensive & not as available. Natural light was used from an open window and 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.

Methods Of Light

A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait pictures in a studio. They can change the intensity and the direction. Different lighting terms are background lights, kicker lights, fill lights & the main light.

The most important light source is obviously called 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 & the background. A Background light brightens the background & can add effects to the backdrops.




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