Bruce Weber Photographer Marks a few Pointers for Outdoor Portrait Photography
There is an incredible sense of dynamism involved in clicking portrait photos outdoors. When the photographers are outdoors, they essentially get to enjoy a black canvas, in which each natural element adds a whole new color to their palette. Even if the photographers are not in full control of all the elements outdoors, they learn to think on their feet and work with what they get. While studio portrait sessions are majorly about control, outdoor portrait photography is about catching lightning in a bottle. Experienced professionals like Bruce Weber Photographer can click excellent photos both indoors and outdoors.
Bruce Weber Photographer shares tips that can help in clicking beautiful outdoor portraits
Timing is extremely important in outdoor portrait photography to avoid harsh shadows on the face of the model. Usually, the “golden hour” is chosen to click these portraits. This time period refers to the 2-3 hour gap right after sunrise or right before sunset. The sun at these times is generally low, and hence does not cause contrasting shadows, and can provide great outdoor portrait lighting. Cloudy, gloomy days generally produce adequate soft light for outdoor portraits with a rounded, natural look. This light can, however, be a bit harder to manage. If a day turns out to be too cloudy, then the portrait may get a silver tinge. One needs to be careful while shooting in such a setting, because otherwise a lot of details can get lost if they select the wrong angle or position the camera. To get extra light in the images, trying out a wide aperture would be a prudent move. A shallow depth of field would allow the photographer to keep their ISO 100 for greater quality, and the shutter speed low.
What the photographers may have in the background of the frame is extremely important, no matter if it is blurred. At times, this very feature can make a portrait photograph stand out. This effect is called bokeh. One would need a shallow depth of field, along with a wide aperture for this blurred effect. There are many objects that can create an interesting bokeh, such as raindrops, lens flares, small tree branches, snowflakes, streetlights and so on. Even textured backlight may work. One must take multiple shots when taking portraits, as they never know when a crucial element in their balanced composition may get out of focus and ruin the shot.
One must not be afraid to experiment when planning to click outdoor portraits. If there is an abandoned building in the neighborhood, it would be a great idea to do some research, ensure that it is a safe location and click intriguing portraits there. Exploring various angles, poses and locations is important to portrait photography. Photographers must also try wide-angle lenses or telephoto lenses while clicking such photos, rather than sticking to their standard lens. It is smart to play around with the focal length for better results. Checking out the works of Bruce Weber Photographer and more can help people gain inspiration for portraits.
