5 Tips for Capturing Stunning Portraits

Portrait photography is all about showcasing the essence of your subject. Whether you're photographing a client or a friend, these tips can help you elevate your portrait game.

1. Get to Know Your Subject

Building rapport with your subject is crucial. Spend a few minutes chatting with them to make them feel comfortable. A relaxed subject will always result in better, more natural photos. Ask them about their hobbies, interests, or what they’d like the portrait to represent.

To help shy or nervous subjects, guide them with simple poses. Show them examples or demonstrate poses yourself. This collaboration builds trust and helps them feel at ease.

2. Master the Lighting

Lighting can make or break a portrait. Use natural light whenever possible, and experiment with golden hour for soft, flattering tones. If shooting indoors, position your subject near a window or use a diffuser to soften harsh shadows.

For studio setups, experiment with a key light and a reflector to create a classic portrait look. Try playing with light angles to create mood—side lighting for drama or front lighting for a clean, even effect.

3. Focus on the Eyes

The eyes are the soul of a portrait. Use a shallow depth of field (f/2.8 or lower) to make the eyes the focal point. A sharp focus on the eyes creates an emotional connection with the viewer.

To make the eyes pop, position your light source to create catchlights. This subtle sparkle in the eyes adds vibrancy and draws the viewer's attention.

4. Experiment with Composition

Try different angles and compositions to add interest to your portraits. Use the rule of thirds, negative space, or creative framing to highlight your subject uniquely.

Shoot from above for a flattering perspective or from below for a sense of power and confidence. Don’t be afraid to break traditional rules—sometimes the most striking portraits come from unconventional angles.

5. Post-Processing Matters

Editing is your final chance to perfect your portrait. Use tools like Lightroom or Photoshop to enhance colors, adjust exposure, and remove distractions without over-editing.

Dodge and burn to add dimension, adjust skin tones for natural results, and use selective sharpening to draw attention to key areas like the eyes. Post-processing should enhance the image, not overpower it.