Portraiture is more than just the subject posing, some lighting equipment, and a background. Powerful portrait photography really goes in and captures the soul of the subject. Their personality, their story, and even emotions that might not show on the surface.
But how do you get to that depth? I believe that the secret lies in really knowing your subject. Understanding who you’re photographing can elevate a standard photo into a *chef’s kiss* masterpiece. This article dives into why this connection matters and how to cultivate it. So, read on!
How connecting with your subject = powerful portrait photography
Capturing the perfect portrait of someone is so hard. It’s just the whole task of getting that exact moment where someone’s personality, emotions, and soul come together in a single moment. Then, click! You have to immediately get it in one image. Two or three, if you’re lucky.
But for real, understanding who you’re photographing is the secret ingredient to a meaningful portrait. Here’s why I think getting to know your subject matters:
Authenticity shines through
At its core, a portrait is a reflection of someone’s true self. Like, you could have the perfect lighting or the best gear in the entire world. However, if the expression is stiff or doesn’t quite feel right, it’s going to fall flat.
When you take time to connect with your subject even just for a few minutes, you start to see the “real” them. Maybe they have a laugh that lights up their eyes or a thoughtful look they slip into when they’re relaxed. That’s their signature thing. Those are the moments that, if you capture them, make your portrait feel authentic.
People viewing your photos can tell the difference, too. They connect with images where people look like themselves, not like they’re just trying to pose. Authenticity makes your work not only technically good but emotionally resonant. And to me, that’s what makes powerful portrait photography.
Creates comfort in front of the camera
Let’s be real: not everyone loves the idea of a lens all in their face. Even in 2024, the age of smartphones and vlog cameras, there’s still a lot of people that feel a little stiff or awkward on camera. So, connecting with your subject by having a warm, friendly chat or cracking a few jokes can help them relax. And it’ll translate into your photos.
The best portraits often come from moments when people let their guard down. And that’s a hard thing to do if they’re feeling self-conscious. So, your job as a portrait photographer is to make them feel like they’re just hanging out. Not as if they’re putting on a performance.
Brings out individuality
Knowing your subject is about figuring out what makes them them! By taking note of the tiny details about them, you’re able to emphasize their individuality in a way that feels genuine. A simple way to do this? Hmm. Incorporate elements that reflect their personality. Like how, if they’re a dancer, capture them in motion while you play their favorite song in the background. Or if they’re a bookworm, maybe have them hold or talk about their favorite novel.
It’s the small details that create a sense of story in a portrait. In my head (and I believe in others’, too), it’s what turns a basic image into something that truly reflects the subject’s essence. And that’s your goal: To make a one-of-a-kind portrait that could only be theirs.
Builds trust with your subject
Portrait photography, especially the close-up emotional kind, is an exercise in vulnerability. It’s not just for the person in front of the camera but for you, too, actually. Your subject needs to trust that you’ll capture them in a way that will make them look good. So, you want them to think, “I can open up a bit and pose or smile without feeling judged.”
Building that trust might involve asking them about their favorite photos of themselves. Only if they’re open to, of course! It could also entail you sharing a little about yourself, or just simply being genuine. Once that foundation is there, people are willing to show you sides of themselves they might normally hide. And when they trust you, they’re often open to trying new ideas and different poses. And if you’re really lucky, maybe you’ll get a few candid moments that make for powerful portraits. With trust, you create space for the unexpected. You capture the intimate, and the real — the heart of any unforgettable portrait.
How to really know your subject
With just a few thoughtful steps, you can create a comfortable and authentic atmosphere that brings out the best in anyone you photograph. I’ve come up with a few that will help you make an impression on your subjects. And, if you want longevity, you can even form a bond. Maybe it’ll shine through in your images! Let’s break it down:
Have a pre-shoot chat.
If you have the chance, have a quick video call before the shoot. This is your time to talk about what aspects of them they’d want represented in the details of the shoot. If they seem more open, you can even get to know who they are as a person.
Ask them about their favorite music, what they do for fun, or where they’d go if they could travel anywhere in the world. Are they more into quiet, introspective moments, or are they energetic and spontaneous? These little insights give you a feel for who they are and help you plan how to capture them in a way that feels genuine. Plus, this initial chat can ease any nervousness they may have, which means they’ll feel more relaxed during the actual session.
During this pre-session talk, don’t be afraid to share a bit about yourself, too! It’s a two-way street. And when they feel like they’re talking to a real person (not just a lens), they’re more likely to show their true self in front of the camera.
Observe their body language.
During the shoot itself, pay close attention to your subject’s body language and tendencies. This isn’t about sticking to a rigid set of poses. It’s about noticing how they naturally hold themselves and respond to different prompts. Ask yourself: are they relaxed and comfortable with eye contact, or do they look away? Are they stiff when standing but more comfortable sitting down? These are a couple of cues you can use to guide your session. Plus, it can help you avoid positions or angles that might feel awkward to them.
Break the ice with music or small talk.
If your subject seems a little shy, try easing the tension with a funny story or joke. If they’re not into comedy? Ask them if they have any song requests (if you’re lucky, maybe they’ll share a playlist)! Music can create a vibe instantly and it often helps subjects settle into a rhythm.
On-the-shoot tips
Now, onto the actual portrait shoot. Achieve powerful portrait photography through these tips:
Eye contact and angles
The eyes are the window to the soul! And, unsurprisingly, this is true in portraits. Direct eye contact can be confidence, mystery, or even vulnerability, depending on your subject’s mood.
Start with simple eye contact and see how they feel about it. Are they shy? If they’re still willing to give it a shot, try other ways. Try having them look slightly away from the camera or over their shoulder. This can create a more candid, introspective vibe.
Also: Angles are also your friend! Experiment with shooting from above or below to add dimension to the shot. Shooting from slightly above, for instance, often softens features and gives a gentle, approachable feel. On the other hand, a low angle can make a subject look powerful or dramatic. It’s all about experimenting!
Find lighting that matches the mood
Lighting sets the mood and enhances the story. If your subject is cheerful and warm, go with soft and diffused lighting to match that vibe.
Try using natural light on an overcast day or light filtered through a softbox. That creates a gentle, flattering look. For subjects with a more intense or moody energy, consider dramatic lighting. Play with shadows or high-contrast lighting for a more mysterious or introspective effect. The light you choose should feel like an extension of the subject’s personality. Aim to amplify their essence without overpowering it.
Experiment with candid moments
While posed shots are great, some of the best portraits happen when the subject is lost in thought. Or maybe, you can catch them simply laughing at something you said. Keep your camera ready and be quick to capture those unplanned, but precious, moments. Often, these are the photos that reveal the truest glimpse into who someone is.
So, don’t shy away from snapping a shot when they’re mid-laugh or looking away in a quiet moment. These authentic images often speak louder than any planned pose ever could. They get a sense of spontaneity and emotion that planned shots can sometimes lack.
Wrapping it up: Portraits with a little extra soul
So, here’s the secret sauce to powerful portrait photography: it’s not just about the lens or lighting — it’s about the connection. Taking a little time to know your subject, making them feel at ease, and capturing those in-between moments make all the difference between a nice portrait and a photo that feels like it has a heartbeat. When you take this approach, every click of your camera becomes an invitation for them to show who they really are. Quirks and all!
