Portrait Photography: Before & After

Result:

Add emotion, mood, and with softened portraits

Result:

Add definition and lift portraits on backgrounds with a flattening effect.

Result:

Reduce harsh lighting and encourage natural skin tones.

Result:

General skin, eye, brows, mouth enhancements for overall definition of features.

Portrait Photographer’s Checklist

Pre-Shoot Preparation

Client Consultation:

  • Discuss desired style, mood, and concept for the shoot.
  • Determine location and time of day.
  • Discuss wardrobe, props, and makeup.
  • Create a shot list based on client’s preferences.

Equipment:

  • Camera body and lenses (appropriate for desired focal length and aperture).
  • Memory cards (formatted and with sufficient space).
  • Batteries (charged or extra spares).
  • Lighting equipment (if necessary): strobes, softboxes, reflectors, etc.
  • Tripod (for stability, especially in low light).
  • Camera bag and cleaning kit.

Location Scouting (if applicable):

  • Research potential locations.
  • Consider lighting conditions, background, and accessibility.
  • Obtain necessary permits if required.

On-Shoot Essentials

Camera Settings:

  • Aperture priority for controlling depth of field.
  • Shutter speed for freezing or capturing motion.
  • ISO for adjusting light sensitivity.
  • White balance for accurate color rendition.

Composition:

  • Rule of thirds: Divide the image into nine equal parts and place subjects at intersections.
  • Leading lines: Use elements in the scene to guide the viewer’s eye.
  • Background: Ensure it complements the subject and doesn’t distract.

Posing:

  • Guide the subject into natural and flattering poses.
  • Experiment with different angles and perspectives.
  • Encourage relaxation and genuine expressions.

Lighting:

  • Use natural light or artificial lighting effectively.
  • Consider the direction, quality, and intensity of light.
  • Use reflectors or diffusers to modify light.

Capture Variety:

  • Shoot a range of shots: close-ups, medium shots, full-body shots.
  • Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and compositions.
  • Capture candid moments as well as posed shots.

Post-Shoot Tasks

Image Selection:

  • Review images carefully and select the best ones.
  • Consider technical quality, composition, and emotional impact.
  • Create a shortlist for further editing.

Image Editing:

  • Adjust exposure, contrast, and color balance.
  • Retouch skin imperfections and remove distractions.
  • Apply creative effects or filters as desired.

Delivery:

  • Prepare final images in the agreed-upon format.
  • Provide images to the client in a timely manner.

Additional Tips:

  • Build rapport with your subject to create a comfortable atmosphere.
  • Be prepared to adapt to unexpected situations.
  • Continuously learn and improve your skills.
  • Back up your images regularly.

By following this checklist, you can increase your chances of capturing stunning portraits and ensuring a smooth photoshoot experience.

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