Portrait Photography Basic Principles
A portrait is a picture taken of a person or small group focusing on their face or expression while they are in a still position, also known as portraiture. The personality, mood and likeness of the person or group will be presented. Portrait photography does not always have to have just the face in the picture, the whole body and background can be included as well. Generally the person or group will be looking strait at the camera during a portrait photo.
Unlike other styles of photography, portrait photography doesn’t usually include models. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, and weddings and are usually displayed in private homes. Many are done on studio with several backgrounds to choose from.
History of Portrait Photography
Ever since the camera was invented people have been using portrait photography. Having your portrait painted was expensive and 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
Portrait photographs can be done in a studio where the photographer can adjust the light when capturing portraits. They can change the direction and the intensity. Kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main lights are a few of the different lighting terms.
The main light is the primary light source. The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject and at a 45 degree angle.The main light can create shadows so the fill light helps to eliminate them. 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 and the background. A Background light brightens the background and can add effects to the backdrops.
Find out more about family portraits and find out about a portrait photography.
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