About Portraits: Senior Photos

Hey everyone! So here is my first aid blog about photography. I was asked about how to prepare for a photo shoot for a senior photo. Well, since I have done this myself, I was able to give some insight:

For senior photos, think about what you are photographing and who you are photographing for. You want a photo that will show off the style and personality of the model for his or her sake, but you also want to be able to create a memorable image for the family and friends.

Tips:
1) Avoid the cliche "dangling from a tree" shot. This one is overused and to be honest, it never makes the model look comfortable. I mean, come on. They are wearing nice clothes and they look like they are contorting really hard to not mess them up. Just avoid it.

2) Control the light. That means shoot when the light is least harsh (which means early morning or late afternoon) and never have the model looking directly into the sun. I know this gives a nice light to the face, but all you would be illuminating is a squint. Not kosh. In the same respect, don't put the sun directly behind the model for multiple reasons (more on this if you are curious). Try and position the sun to the left or right of the model. Then, if possible, use reflectors held by a stand or a helpful assistant to bounce light onto the face. It gives a really natural light look without causing too much grief to you or your model.

3) Don't get too artsy. The best modeled photo is going to be one where the model is just being themselves. Asking them to sit down, then cross one leg, then maybe put one arm on the ground while the opposite one is pulling hair back, then smile at at the camera but don't LOOK like you're smiling at the camera, then don't lean to much then... you get the point. Let the model be them self.

4) Know your location. Look like you know what you are doing, even if you don't. This means be calm, controlled, and don't let on that you're slightly uncomfortable and feeling overwhelmingly pressured. Have a stool or backless chair on hand for seated upright shots. Scout out nice locations for multiple lighting and background situations. Be ready for their input and have a location that will fit that sudden need.

5) If you use a flash, use a good flash. Please please please please PLEASE do not use the flash that comes attached with your camera. I don't care what camera it is. It could be a Canon D1. Doesn't matter. Those flashes are terrible. They create bad, harsh light that just makes everyone in the flash zone look like they woke up after 23 shots of tequila. If you are going to use a flash, use a nice flash that you can angle. You will rarely if ever need direct flash on a portrait shot. If you do, you're going to want to diffuse it.

6) Talk talk talk! Be personable! Make them laugh, ask them about things that make them happy. Get them to talk to you, tell you a story. When you see the face you want, ask them to hold it and take your picture. Or don't ask and just shoot. That's the beauty of digital baby! Also, if you talk to the model, they become more comfortable with you and the situation. Suddenly their shoulders will unclench, their jaws will un-tighten, and suddenly the photo makes it look like they were really having a good time.

7) Good luck! Be confident. Be ready. Do all of this, and with a good background in photography you should be set.

If you want some examples of great portrait photography, check out my friend Jakob's website:
http://www.jakobskogheim.com/
He is a master of lighting and portrait photography. He should give you a little inspiration!

Any other specific questions, feel free to ask!