Photo Tips
taking better photos of people...
by Chris Mosley
How to order a portrait?...
I create each portrait in a two way process, keeping you informed with e-mailed proof images and responding to your comments on any necessary changes. This ensures that the portrait is as life-like and true as possible. Simply e-mail a clear, detailed photograph and description of what you require including portrait size, portrait medium (watercolour or graphite), and what to include, emphasize or remove from the portrait composition.
I'll then prepare a draft composition to help show you how the portrait will look. When your portrait is complete I'll e-mail you a proof image to check if any changes are necessary and repeat this process until you are completely happy. Only then do I request any payment, giving you peace of mind when ordering online.
How much will a portrait cost ?...
Select the portrait price link in the top or side menus on each page to find the portrait prices. Only when you are completely happy with a portrait proof image will I request payment.
How do I pay for a portrait ?...
Choose to pay either by PayPal, Cheque or Bank Transfer.
How long will it take to complete a portrait?...
Portraits are normally completed within 6 to 8 weeks although I can often complete one sooner if necessary for a special occasion or birthday for example. Christmas portrait orders should be placed as early as possible due to high demand.
Please remember that I can only draw from what I see in your photos! I can work from several photos if necessary but one good clear photo of each subject is best.
Digital Camera Settings...Digital Camera Settings...
Set your Picture Size / Quality Settings to Medium or High. Files up to 450kB usually contain enough detail to work from if the subject is large enough in the viewfinder.
Patience is required...Patience is required...
Patience is key to taking a good photo, especially with children. Don't expect to get the perfect shot immediately. Relax and wait for the right moment, then shoot quickly.
Have fun and relax...Have fun and relax...
The best pictures are when the subject is relaxed and has a natural pose. Normal activities can be more natural than staring straight into the lens with "the camera face", and allowing children to play during a photo shoot avoids them getting bored.
Set up the camera beforehand rather than making people wait and choose a location where your subject is comfortable. Make conversation or make them laugh or smile.
Use Natural Light...Use Natural Light...
Cloudy or overcast days provide a softer light, which is often most flattering in photos of people. If indoors, try turning off the flash and use the natural light coming in from a window.
Avoid strong shadows...
Strong sunshine makes people squint and it throws strong shadows across their face so avoid this when possible. On sunny days position the sun slightly to the side or behind you. If your camera has several flash modes then use the Fill-Flash or Daylight Flash. This will help fill in the shadows..
Use the self-timer...Use the self-timer...
If your portrait is of yourself but you don't have anyone to take a picture then use the self-timer. Set your camera on a flat surface or a tripod. Check what you're aiming at in the viewfinder, then set the camera's self-timer so you can join the scene after you press the shutter button.
Get Close...Get Close...
Don't take a photo composing of the whole body if you want only a traditional face portrait. Fill the camera's viewfinder or LCD display with your subject's head and shoulders and exclude the rest. If your camera has a portrait setting then use it to help you get your subject in focus rather than the background.
Important Details...
The eyes and mouth are often the defining elements in a face portrait. When taking photos of children crouch down so you take the picture at their eye level.
Lock the Focus...Lock the Focus...
If your camera is set to auto-focus the picture may turn out blurry because the camera will focus on whatever is in the centre of the viewfinder. Try to remedy this by locking the focus on the subject. Usually you have to centre the subject in the viewfinder and then press the shutter button halfway down. Continue holding the button halfway down while you move the camera to where you want the subject in the viewfinder. When you are ready, press the button all the way down to take the picture. If taking an active picture of children moving around you may need to increase the shutter and keep the subject in focus.
One good picture is better than ten bad...One good picture is better than ten bad...
Taking lots of photos will increase your chance of getting the right photo. But, please be selective and only choose one or two clear photos that show what you want in your portrait rather than sending me many blurred photos that I cannot use.
 |
||