How to do Portrait and People Photography

Photos of people have always been by far the most popular use of cameras. Everyone loves looking at good photos of themselves and other people, so you can earn a lot of brownie points with your friends and family by taking portraits of them.

In terms of technique, classic portraiture is down with an SLR with a large-aperture (f/2.8 or larger) telephoto lens (usually in the range 85 – 135mm). This allows for a frame-filling portrait where there is no distortion of the facial features, and where the background is blurred so that it is not distracting. Environmental portraiture is done with a wider lens (50mm or wider), and aims to show the subject in their normal environment (often at work or doing a hobby).

While portrait photography benefits from good technique (like all photography), it is perhaps unique in that (unless they are completely candid) photos of people express something about the relationship between photographer and subject. The best technique in the world won’t result in good portrait if the subject is (for example) uncomfortable having their photo taken by you. On the other hand, a subject who is relaxed and happy in your presence will often mean a good result even if your technique is a little off.

As a photographer, you need to be aware that most people get self-conscious when a camera is pointed at them. One of the reasons models get paid to do what they do is that they have learned to overcome this. If you want to take a photo of someone who isn’t already relaxed, you need to put them at ease first. If the person is a stranger, this might be achieved by a minute or two of conversation. If the person is a friend, you could try having them do something that takes their mind off the camera.

Another tip for portrait photography is to not spend time fiddling with your camera once your subject is waiting for you to take their photo, as they’re likely to get bored or uncomfortable and start to fidget. Treat your subjects with respect by either knowing your camera well enough to make the necessary adjustments fast, or by testing out different settings before you get your subject(s) in position.