Photography Class: How to Help You Take Better Portraits

1. Classic Portraiture - To photograph a person in a simple way. Learning to successfully shoot your subject naturally against an uncluttered background - learning how to take a classic portrait using available equipment. Students can demonstrate learning by conducting their own photoshoot following examples in this class. Awareness of some typical photo equipment and an introduction to some photographic terms.

To become aware of the light around you. Learn how to differentiate types of daylight and artificial light - how to successfully use them to create great results.

A Single Portrait - This is the first time during the course where I ask you to shoot your own portrait on location - somewhere away from your home or studio.

Your learning objectives:

• To undertake careful decision-making re choice of person / sitter for your location shoot

• Is to become aware of the need to create a checklist of requirements/equipment for your shoot

• Include being able to tell a pictorial story by photographing your subject at home or in a place that means something to them

• Is to recognise what and where good positions are within the space. ‘Location within’

• Making correct outfit choices when selecting outfits for person / sitter to wear

• To realise the benefits of ‘controlling the set’ and how to do it well

• Making good choices re light sources

• Choosing your start point. somewhere unchallenging to set up and flattering to subject

• To practice and accomplish Focus accuracy (both auto and manual exercises)

• Making the person / sitter feel comfortable and confident by connecting with them on shoot

• Recognising when you’ve captured the moment - It’s a feeling that develops over time

Posing for Beginners - (Models ) learning how to pose when you are in front the camera, AND for (photographers) learning what to look out for when you are directing your sitters and models

Learning how to be creative with your picture-taking by creating a journal made up of pictures rather than words.

Your learning objectives:

• Making a decision. Setting the rules of your diary and the frequency of your picture-taking and sticking to it. e.g. one-the-hour photo / Will your diary be portrait only or will you include objects, vistas, meals etc / will the duration be for 1 week, 1 month or like this one, 14 days?

Exercise: Once you have completed your pictorial diary, decide on how you might display the results.

e.g. You could create a professional-looking photo book using an online app or publishing service / or produce small to large-sized framed prints for a photo show in a commercial space where you’d invite friends and associates / another idea could be to simply use to populate your instagram account and share with your audience.

Choose one of these examples or some other promoting platform to share your achievement with the world.

Intro to Headshots

Intro to Headshots – In this module you will have fun mastering the art of head and shoulders photography. Sitters need this type of photography for the very specific purpose of trying to capture their essence. Generally, someone requires a headshot in order to show themselves in a professional light. This usually includes, actors, dancers, authors and models. But lawyers, architects and doctors too… The list can be endless.

Your learning objectives:

• Understanding the needs of a person requiring a headshot

• To become aware of the correct composition for a headshot

• Setting up your lights

• Using the available light in the best way to promote your subject

• Making your subject comfortable before and during the shoot

• Complimenting your sitter to inspire and make confident

• Remember that laughter is always good

• Recognizing what expressions work well for the subject

• To recognize when to click the shutter and if you have the shot

• Making sure that your sitter has a great time – Good PR!