how to take great portrait pictures

Taking pictures is easy however, people tend to leap between a good and better photograph. It’s a matter of putting all things in perspective to capture a great subject most especially in portrait photography. Before putting it into work, you must always have knowledge in handling your camera. Get to know your camera by experimenting it’s features most especially use manual settings rather than auto-settings because it lets you expose your camera from which aperture and shutter-speed you want to pull off rather than putting an automated exposure. Second, always remember your light. Pull a good photograph with the use of proper lighting. Know your location and remember to capture in good lighting condition know proper backlighting, front lighting and avoid getting images in an overcast light and in harsh direct sunlight. Use proper flash, learn to trust your location and know if it does need artificial light through camera flash or use the location’s natural lighting. Always remember to put a good moment and let your subject feel relaxed and comfortable in their photographs. Know proper framing and know your background and your foreground.

I love action shots and have learned how to anticipate the action. This is done through the study of the game and the people involved. I have received a lot of praise for my work. That said when asked to do senior pictures or weddings I refer them to someone else. I have the equipment and the knowledge of the camera but I don't have the eye for the set up and posing of people. I have watched professional portrait photographers and they have a way about them that can make the person relax and get some great shots. If you want to take portraits then you need to study people and how to make them relax and look natural. This is in addition to learning about your camera, lighting and such. If you read about great wildlife photographers many have a background in zoology or other animal science. One award winning photographer that I had the chance to observe working would spend the first 15 minutes getting the subject talking about themselves and he was taking a few photos but as the session progressed he was directing the conservation into those area that seemed to be of interest to the subject and that made him relax and become more natural. Good luck and be excited about what you photograph.