Dear friends,
Let’s be honest: we’ve all taken a selfie that we thought was absolute fire… until we looked at it again three days later and realized we resembled a confused potato caught in bad lighting.
Yeah. It’s okay. We’ve all been there.
That, my friend, is where portrait photography swoops in like a caffeinated superhero with a camera and a dream.
What Is Portrait Photography, Anyway?
In the simplest terms, portrait photography is “the art of capturing a person’s likeness”.
Sounds fancy, no?
But really, it’s just about photographing people in a way that shows who they are—or who they want to be, which is sometimes a little different. (Hey, no judgment. We all have our “filtered” days.)
Portraits can be serious, dramatic, playful, professional, or downright bizarre. Whether it’s your grandma’s 80th birthday shoot, your best friend’s engagement session, or a creative self-portrait involving neon paint and glitter (you do you), it’s all portrait photography.
Why Portraits Still Matter (Yes, Even in the Age of Instagram Filters)
I know what you’re thinking: “Why hire someone to take my photo when I can slap on a Valencia filter and call it a day?”
Well, because you’re not just a collection of pixels. You’re a multi-dimensional human with quirks, charm, and cheekbones that deserve better lighting. Portrait photography is about capturing personality, not just applying a flattering filter.
Plus, you get to see yourself through someone else’s lens—literally. A good portrait photographer knows how to highlight your best side (and everyone has one—yes, even you).
But What Makes a Great Portrait?
You might assume it’s just about pointing a camera at someone’s face and clicking the shutter. That’s like saying baking a cake is just about throwing flour in a bowl and hoping for dessert. (Spoiler: it’s not.)
Remember – the best portraits tell a story —and spoiler alert—you’re the main character.
Here are the juicy ingredients of a fantastic portrait:
1. Lighting, Baby.
Lighting is to photography what salt is to cooking. Too much? You’re glowing like a radioactive alien. Too little? You’re a moody blob in the shadows. Just right? Boom—flattering, magical, and Instagram-worthy.
Natural light (aka the sun, that big flaming ball in the sky) is your best friend. But if you’re indoors or shooting in a dark setting, artificial lighting can be your knight in shining ring light.
2. Background Matters.
Unless you’re going for “person trapped in messy bedroom” vibes, pay attention to your background. Simplicity is key. You want the focus to be on the subject—not the laundry pile photo-bombing in the corner.
3. The Eyes Have It.
Ever heard the saying “the eyes are the windows to the soul”? In portrait photography, it’s not just a Pinterest quote—it’s law. Sharp, expressive eyes can elevate a portrait from “meh” to “WOW.”
4. Pose, Don’t Freeze.
You don’t need to strike a supermodel pose (unless you want to—again, you do you). But a little guidance can make a big difference. The goal is to look natural, relaxed, and not like someone just told you to “act normal” during a panic attack.
Good photographers know how to direct subtly. A tilt of the head here, a shift of the shoulders there—suddenly, you’re channeling your inner Vogue cover star.
5. Connection > Perfection.
Newsflash: You don’t need perfect skin, a symmetrical face, or a jawline sharp enough to cut glass. What makes a portrait shine is connection. Real emotion, real expression, real YOU.
Remember – the best portraits tell a story —and spoiler alert—you’re the main character.
Tips for People Who Hate Having Their Photo Taken
So you think you’re “not photogenic”? Cool story, but also… no. That’s a myth we need to bury along with dial-up internet.
Here’s how to survive (and actually enjoy) having your portrait taken:
Breathe. This isn’t a mugshot. Relax those shoulders, don’t clench that jaw, and let the photographer worry about the technical stuff.
Trust your photographer. If they’re good, they’ve seen every kind of face, expression, and awkward giggle known to humanity. Let them guide you.
Bring a prop. Holding something—a coffee cup, a book, a cat (if cooperative)—can take the edge off and make you feel more natural.
Laugh. Fake laugh if you have to. It usually turns into a real one.
Wear something you feel great in. Seriously! -> Confidence is the best filter.
For Photographers: How Not to Be the Worst
If you’re behind the camera and wondering how to not ruin someone’s day, congratulations—you’re already ahead of most Uncle Bobs (read GWC) with DSLRs.
A few tips:
Communicate. Tell your subject what you’re doing and why. “I’m just adjusting the light” sounds better than silent fiddling with equipment for five minutes while they spiral into anxiety.
Give direction—but gently. Nobody wants to be bossed around like a department store mannequin.
Show them the back of the camera occasionally. It builds trust and shows them they’re looking fire.
Compliment sincerely. Not in a creepy way. In a “wow, your smile really lights up this frame” kind of way.
Be patient. Not everyone warms up instantly. Give it time.
The Gear: Fancy Camera or Nah?
Sure, expensive gear is nice. But it’s not everything. A good photographer with an iPhone can still out shoot someone with a $3,000 camera and no clue what aperture means.
Portrait photography is more about skill, creativity, and connection than megapixels and lenses that sound like aircraft parts.
Wrapping It Up: You’re More Photogenic Than You Think
Portrait photography isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about capturing personality, freezing moments, and saying “this is me” without a single word. And when it’s done right, it’s powerful.
So whether you’re the subject, the photographer, or the innocent bystander holding the reflector, remember this:
Everyone deserves a portrait that makes them feel amazing. Not because they have perfect skin, perfect teeth, or perfect posture—but because they’re human. And that’s worth capturing.
Now go forth. Book that shoot. Take that photo. Frame your face like the masterpiece it is.
Just maybe… maybe skip the duck face this time (unless you want to be friends with Tom!).
Thanks all – and talk soon!
-Rich
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