The world of portrait photography has become an incredibly interesting, yet increasingly competitive place. With the rapid development of smartphone cameras and photography-focused social media platforms, it seems like everyone is trying their hand at the art form — from complete novices to experienced professionals.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to push your work to the next level, these seven tips will help you stand out from the crowd. You can start today.
Tip #1: Shoot from an Interesting Angle
When a beginner picks up a camera, they automatically stand up straight and shoot at eye level. But if you want to capture something a little different, you've got to get moving. Shooting from down low, or getting a higher perspective on your subject, can produce a far more interesting portrait.
Just remember — check your surroundings and make sure you can capture a great shot safely.
Tip #2: Get Creative with Your Composition
When starting out with portraiture, it's natural to position subjects in the centre of the frame with plenty of space around them. But as you gain experience, you'll notice how quickly similarly-composed images become repetitive. Experimenting with where you place your subject within the frame — or how much of them is included — will immediately elevate your work.
Explore compositional techniques like the rule of thirds. Try placing your subject to one side of the frame, or fill the entire frame with just their face. These shifts in framing will enhance the impact of your portraits and make for a truly unique portfolio.
Tip #3: Watch Your Back(ground)
The background of your portraits is more important than you might think. An out-of-place object in the background can be a big distraction, pulling the viewer's eye away from your subject. Unless that's your artistic intention, keep a keen eye on what's behind your subject while shooting.
Choosing a lens with a fast maximum aperture — like the Sigma AF 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art — is a great way to isolate your subject from the background with beautiful bokeh. For outdoor shoots, scout your location beforehand and look for tonally smooth, uncluttered backgrounds. Studio-style portraits make background control even easier, allowing you to use a backdrop and leave nothing to chance.
Tip #4: Shake Things Up with Shallow Depth of Field
A shallow depth of field is one of the most effective ways to add sophistication to your portrait photography. By ensuring only your subject — and in particular their eyes — are in sharp focus, you direct exactly where the viewer's attention goes.
A lens like the Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 APD is purpose-built for this effect, producing stunning subject separation and creamy background blur that highlights your subject in no uncertain terms.
Tip #5: Experiment with Aspect Ratio and Orientation
Many people refer to vertical orientation as "portrait" and horizontal as "landscape" — but portrait photography isn't limited to one orientation. Shooting in both gives you a greater range of options and a better chance of success from any given session.
Similarly, experimenting with aspect ratios can open up new creative possibilities. 3:2 is the standard for most digital cameras, while the square 1:1 format — favoured by medium-format portrait photographers — encourages unexpected compositions and can add a touch of class or nostalgia to your work. You can change aspect ratio in-camera, or shoot wide and crop to square in post-production.
Tip #6: Let Your Hair Down with Your Lens Choice
Normal to short-telephoto lenses are the go-to for portrait photographers, with lenses in the 85mm range being particularly popular. Here are a few great starting points:
- 50mm — A versatile, natural-looking focal length that works well for environmental portraits and everyday shooting.
- 85mm — The classic portrait focal length. Flattering compression, comfortable working distance, and beautiful background separation.
- 135mm — A longer option that gives you more space between you and your subject, great for candid and more intimate portraits.
A wider-angle lens is far less common for portraiture, but if done well, can give your work a distinctive and unique edge. Don't be afraid to pack a few different lenses when you head out on a shoot.
Tip #7: Make Sure Your Subject is Comfortable
A subject's level of comfort is easily visible in a photograph. An at-ease, natural subject almost always results in a more successful portrait. Be professional and friendly — chat with them before shooting begins, maintain a light-hearted and relaxed rapport as the session progresses, and give clear direction and encouragement. This leads to more natural, candid results and a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Find the Perfect Portrait Lens
Portrait photography is responsible for some of the most diverse and powerful imagery in the world — a well-shot portrait can tell a million stories, stir strong emotions, or simply make someone smile. The right lens makes all the difference. Browse Ted's full range of portrait lenses online, or visit your nearest Ted's store and our team will be happy to point you in the right direction.