When you’re first starting out shooting portraits, it can be kind of nerve wracking. But in all honesty, it’s simpler than you think. Once you’ve got the technical tips down, you’ll be able to focus on the artistic parts of actually creating a compelling portraits.
Here’s a checklist.
Browse Pinterest for Ideas on Natural Light Portraiture
You Don’t Need to Shoot Exclusively During the Golden Hour
Use Lenses at a Proper 85mm or Longer
Use Lenses Wider than 85mm Properly With Caution
Keep Your Subject Within the Central Areas
Direct Sunlight Rarely Works
Cloudy Days Offer the Softest Light for Photographs
Work in Places Where You’ve Got the Most Light For Your Creative Vision
Use Spot Metering
Photograph Under Awnings and in Shadows For Better and More Even Control Over Exposures
Diffuse Window Light with Blinds, Shades or Curtains
Backlight > Front Lighting
When Side Lighting: Shoot to the Side of the Subject
The Blue Hour Can Be More Magical Than the Golden Hour
Pro Tip: When shooting portraits, try spot metering for the face and overexposing by 1/3rd of a stop.
Pay Attention to the Colors of Buildings; They’ll Affect Skin Tones
Good Portraits Are a Collaborative Team Effort
Good Communication Between You and a Subject is Key
Be Conscious of Skin Tones, Wardrobe Colors and Environmental Colors for the Editing Stages
Don’t Be Afraid to Raise Your ISO Setting
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