Here are some of my thoughts on the portrait process, how I work, and what you need to do to make the most of it.
It applies to all types of portraits I shoot, from environmental or studio portraits to headshots.
What a portrait session should not be
Stiff, unnatural, with weird poses, fake backgrounds, or ridiculous props (unless you are into that sort of thing).
What a portrait session should be
A realistic, natural, comfortable representation of who you are at this moment in your life. It should show a bit of your personality, the clothes and places you feel comfortable in. But a good portrait, especially for an actor or a creative, should show us more – some edge, some spark, some vulnerability. It should almost feel a bit candid.
In a Portrait Session we will therefore experiment with different outfits vs. backgrounds, different poses and moods, and we will create many images, so that you will have several “looks” to choose from.
What to expect
We will start by spending a bit of time talking and getting acquainted, sussing out how we will work together to achieve the best possible outcome.
We will then take our time and capture images of you with a bunch of different angles and poses, and in as many locations and outfits as we have time for.
We’ll be sure to get the sort of “standard” shots one might expect, then work through a shot list if we have worked on that ahead of time. But it is also very important for us to have a bit of fun.
I will experiment and play with different ideas, because every person is different, and any location differs based on the day or time of day. Some of the things we try together will work, some will not. There is no pressure, we are not going to force things, and I promise to obliterate any image that does not work. The point is to have fun and capture a few moments.
If this is a headshot session, I treat that a bit differently, so read up on that here.
This is not a torture session
For some reason, lots of people feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of a lens. Go figure.
I will do all I can to help us avoid this situation.
I am not interested in capturing posey, awkward images, but natural, relaxed images that show you in the best light.
Yet I may ask you to do awkward stuff
We are taking a living, breathing, four-dimensional world and trying to make it look interesting and engaging in just two dimensions. If we don’t do it right, it can look really wrong. There are some “tricks” to fooling the camera, to making portraits look right. At the time you may think, “Hm, this is awkward. I would never stand like this.” In those moments you need to just trust me. Relax and go with the flow.
Here's the thing: at any point in time, about 70-98% of all communication is body language and expressions, not the words that come out of people's mouths. And the thing about a photograph? It can't speak, so it's 100% body language. Which may account for much of why many people don't like having their picture taken: they are not used to seeing how they communicate with their face, expressions, body; they just hear what they sound like in their own heads.
What to wear
Things you are comfortable in. Clothes that are you.
- Simple is better than complex. But that doesn’t mean don’t accessorize. Do what feels natural. Just don’t overthink.
- Solids are better than patterns. In fact, stay away from patterns, they date a photo.
- Deeper colors and earth tones are good for bringing attention to your face; darker colors are slimming; lighter colors tend to take the viewers’ eyes away from the subject.
- It is best to have at least one solid black or solid white shirt as a failsafe.
- Texture is great. As is character. If you are into red hightops or have a favorite hat, bring 'em on! Leather jacket? Sure.
- Mix it up: go for a range of styles to give some variety to choose from. If you want to go for, say, three “looks,” I would suggest one casual (jeans, casual top), one formal dress or outfit, and one in-between. And we can change up the poses and backgrounds to fit each.
- What not to wear: for men, generally polo shirts are not a good idea (too floppy and uncooperative); for women, spaghetti strap tops are generally not a fantastic choice. Yet some can pull it off.
- Most importantly, and to repeat that which is most important: wear things you feel comfortable in, that make you feel good.
- Bring lots of options. Unlike a headshot, which is a subset of portraiture, we are showing more of you in the frame, and attire can matter more. So bring at least 4-5 options to try and do comparisons.
How long with this take?
It depends on what we are trying to achieve. But in most cases, 60-90 minutes is more than enough time for a portrait session, unless we are on location or driving around to multiple locations. Generally, I like to plan a session so that, for all intents and purposes, the clock has been stopped and we have plenty of time to lean into the moment and collaborate to create amazing images. But given that time is a thing, I do set appointments for two hours. So if you think, from the get go, that you are going to need loads more time, let's talk.
If we are working outside, the ideal time to start is about 90 minutes before sunset. That gives us the most interesting, softest sunlight. But we can work in any light. And, of course, we can work around the clock indoors.
What do I need from you?
Well, first of all, a reservation.
But, beyond that, you just need to bring yourself and be yourself.
Of course, after the reservation, but before the shoot, I would love it if you can share with me by phone or over email anything that expresses your expectations of our collaboration.
- Are there any images/poses you really feel you must have?
- Are there are any special requirements (deadlines?) for what we create together?
- Is there a mood or look you would like to aim for? (Yes, I will look at a Pinterest board if you assemble one.)
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