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. This is to display the personality, mood and the likeness of the person or group. You can also include the whole body and background in portrait photography as well. Generally the person or group will be looking strait at the camera during a portrait photo.
Portrait photography, unlike other styles uses unskilled 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.
A Bit of History
Ever since the camera was invented people have been using portrait photography. It was, and is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted and it is a more available method. People would sit against a background and were lit with natural light from a window. With technology evolving photographers have the ability to take pictures with less exposure time giving them more freedom to move around and create new styles of portrait photography.
Methods of Light
A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait photographs in a studio. 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.
Discover more about family portraits and find out about a portrait photography.
Related posts:
- Getting The Photography Right On Your Special Day The two most important people on a wedding day are,...
- How To Find A Family Portrait Photographer Family portrait shots are taken for numerous occasions like birthdays,...
- Doing Food Photography Differently Food photography is a very technical area of photography because...
- Pendant Track Lighting Act As A Decorative Item Pendant track lighting provides a beautiful looks to the room....
- Pre-Bridal Photography – A Great Wedding Idea Talk with your friends and ask them if weddings can...