Ten Tips for taking better portraits of family and friends

10 Tips for Taking Perfect Portraits

Most of us love capturing memories at events and family gatherings, but sometimes we wish our portraits looked a bit more polished. Gerrie from OpenImage Photography has shared these great tips to help you improve your portrait photography skills.

1. Use Your Flash

Even during the day in bright sunlight, it’s better to use your flash. Bright sunlight can create shadows in the eye sockets, so a bit of flash helps to soften those shadows and balance the lighting.

2. Zoom IN

Instead of standing close to your subject and zooming out, take a few steps back and zoom in. This ensures that your photo is in proportion and avoids distortions like small heads or oversized hands.

3. Beware of Nostrils

Avoid shooting from a low angle, as this can emphasize your subject's nostrils. Try to keep the camera at the same height as their eyes for a more flattering composition.

4. Use Angles

Don’t settle for ID-photo-style straight-on shots. Turn your subject slightly sideways while keeping their face towards the camera. This angle often makes the subject look slimmer, which is always appreciated!

5. Chin-Up Boy!

For subjects with a double chin, ask them to slightly lift their chin. This helps minimize the appearance of a double chin without making them look unnaturally posed.

6. Find Good Shade

When shooting in bright daylight, avoid blotchy tree shadows. Look for even, uniform shade to get a smoother and more flattering lighting effect.

7. Make Them Smile

Engage your subject to elicit natural smiles. Say something funny, make them comfortable, and compliment the shots as you go to keep the mood light.

8. Open Those Eyes

Take multiple shots, especially in group settings. This increases your chances of capturing a moment where everyone’s eyes are open.

9. Check Your LCD

Don’t rely on just one shot. Always review your images on your camera’s screen and make adjustments if necessary.

10. Break the Rules

Experiment and be creative! Some of the best photos happen by accident. Don’t be afraid to try something new or unconventional.

We hope these tips inspire you to grab your camera, find a willing subject, and start practicing! Remember, great portraits come from understanding your camera and honing your skills through practice. Happy shooting!