Finding Out More About Portrait Photography

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. Portrait photography does not always have to have just the face in the picture, the whole body and background can be included as well. When taking a portrait photo the person or group is generally looking strait at the camera.

Non-professional models are used for portrait photography, unlike other styles of photography. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, and weddings and are usually displayed in private homes.

History of Portrait Photography

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. Natural light was used from an open window and people would sit against the background. 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. Different lighting terms are kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main light. The most important light source is obviously referred to the main light. The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject and at a 45 degree angle. The fill light is used to help eliminate shadows that are created by the main light. The kicker light is the light that brightens up the hair of a subject. This will help to add depth and to show the separation from the subject and the background. To add effects to the backdrops the background light is used to brighten up the background.