Photographing People

• People didn’t smile in old pictures because of the insensitivity of the film
• Two things to keep in mind when photographing people:
  • Look for good expressions
  • Keep your subjects busy
• Knowing when to release that shutter is the essence of good picture taking.
• Expressions are key…to bring your photos to life.
  • Capture spontaneous moments
    • Learn to capture the moment when the picture shows an image that you could read what is going on.
  • Give them something fun to do
• The best expressions come quickly and fade fast
  • Find something that is simple and natural
  • Take advantage of the first few moments of real emotion
  • Good pictures are not always happy emotions.
  • Look for scenes that might develop into a strong scene.
• Don’t hesitate…look for when the moment is right
  • Develop rapport with your subjects
  • Show them the type of pose you are looking for
  • Take the picture even if you have to sacrifice good composition
• Body language is good for expression
  • If you miss the action, ask for a repeat performance
• Variety is the spice of life
  • Emotions change…so will the mood of your pictures.
• Photograph in different locations, different clothes, and props
• Help your subjects relax
  • Smile at them, frown at them
• Be ready
  • Good expressions are fleeting
  • Know your camera, know your exposure
    • Set your camera, check your settings, practice a few shots
    • With digital cameras (or film) with a two stage shutter release, press the shutter halfway and then anticipate the action.
• Give your subjects something to do
  • This allows them to be themselves.
• Choose the background carefully
  • Look for simple backgrounds…don’t choose busy backgrounds,
  • Add a little color that compliments rather competes with your subject.
    • Be careful in adding too much so that it doesn’t take away.
• Consider your camera viewpoint….and choose a desirable perspective
  • Shooting at about eye level will help them appear natural
    • For children, get down at their level
• Camera details
  • Find a good comfortable grip to hold the camera in the vertical and horizontal
  • Hold the camera steady
  • Choose the right focal length
    • Avoid shooting people with a wide angle lens
    • Use a telephoto range to throw the back ground out of focus. Control the aperture to a larger aperture opening (smaller number)
  • Use filters to add effects to your pictures
  • Use slow films for the best picture
  • Be careful storing your camera in the car.
  • Use flash to add light
    • Be sure to know the effective distance of your flash. Most built in flashes are only useful for up to 15’ feet.
  • Use natural light from a window…just be sure to show the lighted side of the face.
  • Sun light can make for harsh shadows
    • Shoot in the shade to soften shadows

    • Use Fill Flash

      • Get your camera OFF of Auto or Pickle Mode. This will give you control of the flash.

      • Force the flash to be ON.

      • In bright light, the flash will not fire on auto, so you HAVE to get it off of Auto, and FORCE the flash to fire.

    • If a subject is backlit, be sure to adjust the camera is set for the subject.
      • Move in close, lock the exposure for the person’s face, and then move back out, focus and take the picture.
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Key note from the video: Be alert...watch what is developing around you.

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