Portrait photography
A portrait begins with how you want to be seen
A professional portrait, a musician’s photograph and a personal portrait may all show the same person. They do not necessarily need to say the same thing.
Give the portrait a purpose
Start by describing where the photograph will appear and who will see it. A portrait for a company biography may need to sit comfortably alongside an existing team. An artist’s image might have more room for atmosphere, movement or a setting that relates to the work. A personal portrait can be made simply because this moment deserves to be remembered.
You do not need to arrive with a complete visual concept. A few words about the impression you want to convey are more useful than a large folder of unrelated references. If you do bring examples, explain what you respond to: the light, the expression, the simplicity or the sense of place.
Choose clothing and surroundings with intention
Bring clothing that fits comfortably and feels like you. Check it sitting down as well as standing, and notice how collars, sleeves and layers behave when you move. A second option gives us a useful alternative without turning the session into a search through an entire wardrobe.
A location can add meaning, but it also adds visual information. The guitar and stone in the photograph above give the portrait a specific character. In another portrait, a quieter background might leave more attention on the face. The decision should follow the person and the purpose of the image.
Leave room for an expression to develop
You do not need to practise a fixed smile. Small changes in posture, the angle of the face and the direction of attention can make a substantial difference. Allowing time to settle into the session gives us room to explore those changes.
When enquiring, include the intended use, a preferred timeframe and any deadline for delivery. If the portrait is for a publication or an organisation, send its requirements. That helps us plan the right shape, background and range of photographs before the camera comes out.
Text and photograph © Capt. Solomon D. Crowe. All rights reserved. Image licensing information.