Do you love taking portraits but sometimes feel like your shots are a bit stale? Here are some ideas to help you come up with fresh new portrait photography ideas. Whether you’re aiming to capture a person’s essence or just want to get more interesting photos, these tips and tricks will help.
What you need to shoot portrait photos
If you’re planning on shooting portrait photos, there are a few things you’ll need to have in order to get started. First and foremost, you’ll need a camera that’s capable of taking high-quality photos. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need an expensive DSLR – even a basic point-and-shoot camera can work well for portraits.
You’ll also need a few basic pieces of equipment, like a tripod or monopod (to keep your camera steady), a reflector (to bounce light back onto your subject), and a flash (to add some extra light).
Finally, it’s always helpful to have some props on hand to help add interest to your photos. Things like colorful scarves, hats, or jewelry can really help to make your portraits pop!
Where to shoot portrait photos
There are endless possibilities when it comes to where you can shoot your portrait photos. You can do it indoors or outdoors, in a studio or on location – it’s really up to you!
If you’re shooting indoors, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure that you have enough space to work with. Second, you’ll need to pay attention to the lighting. Natural light is always best, but if you’re shooting in a dimly lit room, you may need to use a flash.
When it comes to outdoor locations, the sky’s the limit! Just remember to consider the lighting conditions and whether or not you’ll need a flash. And if you’re shooting in a public place, be sure to get permission first.
Portrait photography ideas and tips to try
Let’s start off with tips to shooting portrait photos creatively. We’ll be running through different ideas and ways you can create more interest in your portrait photography.
1. Get up close and personal
This portrait photo idea is one of the best ways to add intrigue to a portrait: get up close and personal with your subject! This can be done by moving in closer with your camera or by using a telephoto lens. Either way, getting closer to your subject will help to capture their features in greater detail and create a more intimate feeling.
2. Use props
Props can be a great way to add interest to your photos and give your subjects something to do with their hands. common props include flowers, umbrellas, hats, scarves, etc. But don’t be afraid to get creative – anything that adds visual interest can make for a great prop!
3. Incorporate nature
Nature can be a great addition to any portrait, whether you’re using it as a backdrop or incorporating it into the photo itself. Flowers, trees, and other plants can add color and life to your photos and can help to create a feeling of tranquility. If you want your photos to seem more natural, keep this portrait shoot idea in mind.
4. Experiment with different angles
How about this for a portrait shot idea: change your, or rather, your audience’s perspective. One way to add interest to your portraits is to experiment with different angles. Instead of taking a traditional head-on shot, try getting above your subject or shooting from below. These unusual perspectives can help to add dimension and depth to your photos.
5. Capture movement
Movement can add energy and dynamism to any photo and is especially effective in portraits. To capture movement, use a faster shutter speed or pan your camera as your subject moves. This will help to create a sense of motion in your photos and can add a sense of excitement.
6. Use black and white
Black and white photography can be extremely elegant and timeless. If you’re looking to add a classic touch to your portraits, try converting them to black and white. This can be done easily using most photo editing software programs.
7. Edit your photos
Editing your photos is a great way to add your own personal touch to them. With photo editing software, you can change the color, contrast, brightness, or even the composition of your photos. So don’t be afraid to experiment – have fun with it!
Portrait photoshoot ideas
Now that you know how you can shoot better portrait photos, we’ll be going through our top portrait shoot ideas. These will be a combination of studio portrait photography ideas as well as ones you can do on a whim!
1. A day in the life
Following your subject around for a day can give you some great insights into their life and who they are as a person. This portrait shoot idea is especially effective if you’re photographing someone with an interesting job or lifestyle. Think a dog groomer on the job (ooh pets!) or even a racecar driver. But honestly, any job or person can be made interesting. You just need to capture the moments that give them the most light and life!
2. On the spot
Asking your subject to pose on the spot can lead to some spontaneous and natural-looking photos. This is a great way to capture someone in the moment, without them feeling too posed or staged. This also makes the portrait photography shoot feel more fun and casual and reduces the amount of pressure and awkwardness your subject may feel.
3. In their element
This portrait shot idea is similar to our first one. It’s all about shooting your subject doing something they love. Trying to capture your subjects in their element can lead to some really interesting photos. If they’re passionate about something, try photographing them doing what they love. You’ll likely get some great candid shots this way.
4. The details
Focusing on the details in your photos can help to add some intrigue and interest. This could involve close-ups of interesting textures or patterns, or even photographing someone’s hands as they work. Some details to keep an eye on are bright colors, movement, shapes, and any other identifying features such as their eyes or even their mouths (for instance mid-laugh or as they’re caught in thought).
5. A sense of place
Incorporating a sense of place into your portraits can help to tell a story about your subject. This could involve photographing them in front of their home, or in a place that’s important to them. Having them in a place that’s close to their hearts allows you to bring out emotions in them. If you’re feeling stuck, have them talk about why they love this place so much or any fond memories they have of it. It will add more emotions to their face and bring depth into your portrait photos.
6. A pop of color
Adding a pop of color to your photos can really make them stand out. This could involve incorporating colorful props or clothing, or even shooting in a brightly colored location.
7. Go candid
Candid shots can be some of the most natural and beautiful portraits. If you can, try to capture your subjects off guard and in the moment. This will help to create photos that are full of emotion and personality.
Start shooting!
The only way to see which portrait shoot ideas work for you is to go and try them. You can stick to one idea or combine different ones to bring about your desired results. If you’re feeling stuck or need help with your portrait photography, get in touch with experts from Stellar Studios! We offer professional portrait photography as well as other services to help bring your photos to life.