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Better Portrait Photos

1.  Get very, very close

The subject’s head and shoulders should fill the entire frame of your view-finder. This usually means getting closer than what feels comfortable.

 2.  Avoid direct sunlight

It’s best if you and the subject are both in the shade. If you must shoot in the sun, make sure the sun is at

your back so the subject is well lit.

3.  Keep the background simple

If you are indoors, don’t stand the subject up against a wall – this often causes bad shadows.  If you are outdoors, open spaces and buildings may  work well. Be sure that the subject's head and shoulders are clear of objects in the background such as doorways, furniture, printed signs, or branches.

4.  Shoot lots of pictures

Shoot a MINIMUM of 5 shots of the subject. There is no point in saving film and ending up without a photo you can use.  Try a variety of facial expressions, including some shots of the subject smiling. Get someone to talk with your subject so you can get some active expressions too.

Courtesy of TheWorkSite.org.