As I reflect on comments about why people choose to come to me for a portrait, the one I hear most often is that my portraits are natural, or “real.” I love that. I’ve always thought that a great portrait should “portray” an aspect of the true or “real” nature of the subject. That “real” nature, displayed through the characteristics of expression and mannerisms of the individual, facilitates the emotional connection between viewer and subject. When a Mom looks at an image and recognizes that particular look. that is so special to her, she becomes emotionally connected to photograph. Images like that are priceless. The goal of every session I do, is to create portraits that reflect some facet of the “real” nature of my subject.
Sixteen
The key to facilitating these natural portraits, is to create an environment where the subject can be relaxed, comfortable and expressive. To that end, I start by keeping a friendly relaxed studio environment, and let my client know that he or she doesn’t have to do anything at all except relax and have a good time. From the minute they walk into the studio, everything is all about them. The second part is about having my technique down to where I can work without having to think about lighting, f stops, and exposure. Oh, I’m constantly aware of them, and in control of every aspect of every shot. But to the client I am completely focused on them.
Though I may be adjusting equipment, moving props and lights , or taking exposure readings, I am engaging the subject in significant conversation, asking leading questions and actively listening to what they have to say. It’s important that the conversation is significant to them, even if I can’t relate to the content, I must validate this person, in this moment in time, as an individual who is important in our world. Her or his thoughts on any subject matter to me. I find that after some time, when someone is engrossed in a subject that is important to them, they just naturally stand, sit, lean, place their arms and hands, etc., in ways that are the most natural to them and that fit their current mood and expressions. It’s common to see quite a range of wonderful expressions and poses happen without any direction required from me what so ever. Usually I will have been photographing them the entire time and they are barely aware of my camera. If things aren’t flowing quite well enough or seem a little stiff, I can usually make a simple suggestion to “sit here” or “lean on this ” as I go on conversing with them, and it will help loosen up the flow.
Portrait of a Musician
To facilitate good conversations, ask questions that cannot be answered with a “yes” or “no.” Don’t ask, “did you have a
good summer?” say, ”Tell me about your summer. What did you do? They will go with that, just keep asking questions that encourage them to tell you about something very meaningful. You will have no shortage of moments where this person’s real self comes through.
Everything should be done to create confidence and relaxation in the individual. I don’t have fixed rules as to whether someone else can be in the session. It’s all up to the individual and their needs. Are they insecure? would they feel better if someone else is there? “You bet, what ever you are the most comfortable with” If Mom wants to be in a senior session and the senior is obviously stressed by her presence, then Mom is outta there! Of course I let her know that we will have more success with the natural style portraits that way.
It’s important to have your technique down very well, so you aren’t having to think very much about your camera settings, lighting, or posing. You must be able to think about the technical things and make changes without it being noticeable to the client. At the very least, make sure you look like you know what you are doing. Appearing flustered by difficult lighting or camera settings will really undermine the attempts to create a relaxed environment. Particularly for the senior portrait session where the client must feel like they are having an incredibly good session so in order to look their best in the images.
If you are looking for ways to help getting more effective results in your portrait photography, give these ideas a try. I believe these thoughts on working with people can have a very positive effect on your success! At least I hope so!
Have a great day!
Michael
