Taking a great photo isn’t easy. There are almost a hundred different factors that go into it.
The light, the wind, the model, the outfit, the expression, the hair, the makeup – it’s a hard task.
But with these tips for good photography, even a beginner photographer can get some portfolio worthy shots. Learn more and see how you can nail it on the first try.
1. Start with a Vision
You’d never walk onto a big fashion photographer or brand’s shoot without seeing a mood board weeks in advance. A photo shoot is like a big collective work of art.
Everyone needs to be on the same page for the inspiration and story of the shoot. If you’re trying to pull from the likes of photographers like Annie Leibovitz, create a mood board first.
What would be the idea shot if there were no challenges in your way? Write it down – sketch it or find something like it on Pinterest. Then share that vision with the other shoot participants.
2. Be Picky About Models
Sometimes building a portfolio is about luck and whoever is willing to pose for you. We get that, but if you have the choice between models, pick carefully.
They’re all pretty – but whose look fits into the story you’re trying to tell? Who can stand up to and out from the beautiful backdrop? Won’t get lost in the clothes?
If you’re using multiple models in one shot, make sure they have a chemistry between them. You don’t need two people vying for the camera, you want them to work together.
3. Have a Classic Prop
If you’ve ever looked at high fashion shoots, they’re not usually a model in a blank background. And if they are, the model is usually lounging on something.
The idea is to create visual interest. What would help your story? If it’s a shoot themed around rock and roll, wouldn’t it be cool to have a classic car from Vinty?
It’ll give the models something to work within the shoot – to drape their bodies around or over. Props give models the opportunity to create more visual interest with their body shape and activity.
4. Scout Backdrops
Imagine you have everything you need for a shoot – the mood, the model, the camera, the lighting and then you realize, you don’t know where to go.
Each shoot should have a few locations in mind. And while you may have one you’re dying for – if it’s in public you never know what’s going to happen.
You could have the perfect stretch of beach in mind and show up that day to see a triathlon in motion. Getting to your shoot location early will help you avoid hiccups like this – but you should always have a backup.
5. Time the Lighting
There are two “golden hours” in the day when it comes to photography. Try to shoot at the beginning of dawn or right before the sun starts to set.
Shooting Good Photography
If you follow these five tips, you should have no problem building your portfolio. A lot of good photography is out there, but you have to have patience if you want the perfect breakthrough gig.
Stay patient and work hard – you’ll get there soon.
Need some inspiration in the meantime? Look here.
