The Art of Portrait Photography: Connecting with Your Subject

The Psychology of Portrait Photography

Understanding the psychological aspects of portrait photography is essential for creating meaningful images. When someone steps in front of your camera, they often experience a range of emotions—from excitement to anxiety—that can significantly impact the final result.

The Camera as a Barrier

For many people, having their photograph taken is an uncomfortable experience. The camera creates a physical and psychological barrier that can lead to self-consciousness, stiff posing, and forced expressions. Your first task as a portrait photographer is to minimize this barrier effect and create a safe space where your subject can feel comfortable and seen.

The Power Dynamic

There's an inherent power dynamic in portrait photography. The photographer directs, the subject follows. Being aware of this dynamic and working to establish a collaborative relationship rather than a directive one can significantly improve your results. Remember that your subject is entrusting you with their image and vulnerability—honor that trust by treating them with respect and creating a partnership.

Building Rapport: The Foundation of Great Portraits

Before the Session

The rapport-building process begins long before you pick up your camera:

• Pre-session consultation: Meet with your subject before the shoot to discuss their expectations, concerns, and what they hope to convey through their portraits. This gives you valuable insight and helps them feel involved in the process.
• Clear communication: Explain your process and what they can expect during the session. Address any concerns they might have about how they'll look or how to pose.
• Personal connection: Find common ground and shared interests. People are more likely to relax around someone they feel a connection with.

During the Session

Once the camera comes out, maintaining and deepening that rapport becomes crucial:

• Start with conversation: Begin shooting while engaged in meaningful conversation. This distracts from the camera and allows for more natural expressions.
• Provide positive reinforcement: Show your subject some of the images as you go, focusing on the ones that highlight their best features.
• Give clear direction: Many people don't know how to pose naturally. Provide specific, simple directions rather than vague instructions like "act natural."
• Create a comfortable environment: Consider temperature, music, privacy, and other environmental factors that might impact your subject's comfort level.

Eliciting Authentic Emotions

The most powerful portraits capture genuine emotions rather than posed smiles. Here are techniques to help your subjects express authenticity:

The Power of Questions

Thoughtful questions can evoke emotional responses that translate beautifully to photographs:

• "What's something that made you laugh recently?"
• "Tell me about someone who inspires you."
• "What's a memory that brings you joy when you think about it?"
• "What are you most proud of in your life?"

The key is to ask these questions while continuing to photograph, capturing the genuine expressions that emerge during reflection.

Movement and Action

Static poses often result in static expressions. Incorporating movement can lead to more dynamic and authentic portraits:

• Ask your subject to slowly turn toward the camera
• Have them walk toward you while maintaining eye contact
• Suggest simple actions like running hands through hair or adjusting clothing
• For couples or groups, create interaction prompts like whispered secrets or shared jokes

The Element of Surprise

Unexpected moments often yield the most genuine expressions:

• Count to three for a pose, but keep shooting after the count when they relax
• Ask unexpected or slightly absurd questions that might provoke laughter
• If working with an assistant, have them create a distraction or surprise

Technical Considerations for Emotional Portraits

Lens Selection

Your choice of lens significantly impacts the feeling of connection in a portrait:

• 85mm-135mm: Generally considered ideal for portraits, these focal lengths provide flattering compression and allow for comfortable working distance.
• 50mm: Offers a perspective close to the human eye, creating a sense of "being there" for the viewer.
• 35mm: Can create more environmental portraits that show context while still maintaining focus on the subject.
• Avoid extremely wide lenses for close-up portraits as they can create unflattering distortion.

Eye Focus

Sharp focus on the eyes is crucial in portrait photography:

• When using shallow depth of field, ensure the nearest eye is tack-sharp
• For subjects wearing glasses, adjust your angle to minimize reflections
• In group portraits, try to position subjects so they're on the same focal plane

Lighting for Emotion

Lighting shapes the emotional tone of your portraits:

• Soft, diffused light (large light source) tends to be flattering and creates a gentle, approachable mood
• Dramatic lighting with stronger shadows can create intensity and depth
• Rembrandt lighting (light creating a triangle on the cheek) adds sophistication and dimension
• Backlighting can create dreamy, romantic images when properly exposed

Working with Different Personality Types

Adapting your approach to different personality types is an essential skill for portrait photographers:

The Self-Conscious Subject

Many people feel uncomfortable in front of the camera due to insecurities about their appearance:

• Begin with more conservative poses that help them feel secure
• Provide specific positive feedback about what's working well
• Show them images during the session to build confidence
• Discuss any specific concerns they have and address them through posing and lighting

The Extrovert

Outgoing personalities might need different guidance:

• Channel their energy into dynamic poses and expressions
• Challenge them with creative concepts that push boundaries
• Be ready to capture spontaneous moments and expressions
• Sometimes guide them toward more subtle expressions that can be equally powerful

Children and Teens

Younger subjects require special approaches:

• For children, make the session playful and avoid forcing poses
• Be patient and ready to capture fleeting expressions
• With teens, respect their developing sense of identity and collaborate on concepts
• Allow for breaks and don't rush the process