What Is Portrait Photography?

Posted by Georgy | 12/07/2009

By John Miller

A portraiture, simply known as a portrait, is a photograph centering a person or small group's facial expression while they are in a still position. The personality, moods & likeness of the person or persons emerge out. Aside from the face, portrait photography can also show the whole body & the background of the subject. When shooting a portrait picture the person or group is usually looking straight at the lens.

Unlike other styles of photography, portrait photography doesn't usually include professional models. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, and weddings & are usually displayed in private homes. Some are done on studio with several settings to select from.

The History of Portrait Photography

Ever since the invention of the camera people have been using portrait photography. It was, & is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted and it is a more available method. Natural light was used from an open window and people would sit against the background. Portrait photography can now be more creative with the way technology has evolve since they can adjust light & move around more.

Methods Of Light

A professional photographer has complete control over the lighting when taking portrait photos in a studio. They can change the intensity & the direction. Background lights, kicker lights, fill lights and the main lights are a few of the different lighting terms.

The main light is the primary light source. The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject & at a 45 degree angle.The fill light is used to help eliminate shadows that are created by the main light. The kicker light is the light that brightens up the hair of a subject. This will help to add depth & to show the separation from the subject & the background. A Background light brightens the background and can add effects to the backdrops.

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