From the very beginning of learning the basics of photography, my goal was to shoot portraits. Having avoided them for a long time, after purchasing the GX7 I began to try taking self-portraits, experimenting with shooting distance and lighting. After that, I ventured into model photography, which helped me gain some more experience in portrait photography. I liked the results of all these attempts at shooting indoors, but I wanted to take portraits outside the walls of my home, in nature. I knew that the bushes around my house were a great place to shoot, but my model was afraid of snakes and flatly refused to leave the path and go deep into the vegetation.

So all I could do was spend my time studying photo sites and practicing general rules building a composition, waiting for the moment when I would finally realize my idea.

Finally, late last year, model Hunter Kavanagh contacted me via Instagram to say that she had looked at my non-portrait photography and would be interested in working with me. After several months of discussion, we decided to use the image of a bohemian girl against a nature background for the photo shoot. On the day of the shoot, I woke up quite nervous and decided that planning for the upcoming shoot would help me push my anxiety away. I made a list of the equipment I was going to use, wrote down the ideas we discussed, and looked at some photos with information about what cameras and lenses were used to shoot them.

I wanted to limit myself to two focal lengths, so I chose the 45mm f/1.8 and Coco Ringflash mounted on my EM5, and the OM 28mm f/2.8 mounted on my GX7. I also used two Yongnuo YN560-III flashes, a YN560-TX trigger and a silver umbrella. For some shots, I completely abandoned artificial lighting and relied only on beautiful natural light.

In the end, I found that trying to use two systems at the same time was extremely inconvenient, so I abandoned the GX7 and simply switched lenses a few times while shooting. Also, I should have used the 35mm f/2.8 instead of the 28mm f/2.8, since with the latter I use circular flash without rendering significant influence in the photograph was impossible. Finally, another surprise that made me want to bang my head on the table was waiting for me at home: after inserting the memory card into the card reader, I realized that I had filmed the entire session exclusively in JPEG!

As for post-processing, I edited one image in Lightroom from scratch, saved the changes to a preset, and then used it as a template for all the captured images. I then made minor adjustments to give the images a more aesthetically pleasing look and exported them to VSCOcam for final editing.

Series of frames “All that glitters”

Equipment:

Lighting scheme:

Series of frames “Inspiration of a foggy day”

Equipment:

• Olympus EM5 and 28mm f/2.8

Lighting scheme:

Here the same lighting scheme was used as above, except that the model stood up and walked to the other side of the tree, i.e. the position of the photo umbrella with the flash has not changed:

I then moved the photo umbrella to the right of the camera.

Series of photographs “Roses”

Equipment:

• Olympus EM5 and 28mm f/2.8
• Yongnuo YN560-III reflected by silver photo umbrella
• Yongnuo YN560-TX trigger in hot shoe

Lighting scheme (applies to first image only):

Daylight:

Series of frames “Wildflowers”

Equipment:

• Olympus EM5 and Olympus 45mm f/1.8
• Circular flash + Yongnuo YN560-III in hot shoe

Nature as a backdrop is always a good choice for a photo shoot. Shooting outdoors gives you the opportunity not only to realize your wildest ideas, but also to relax, enjoy the beauty of the world around you and recharge yourself with positivity for the next few days. Such a photo shoot is a great opportunity for experimentation. You can try to act in different images at any time of year and weather. If you think through the details down to the smallest detail, you will get a lot of positive impressions and stunning photographs.

Images for a photo shoot in nature

It will look good in a photo - this is an entire art associated with many tricks and secrets. It’s not for nothing that professional models are specially trained to do this.

Typically, the hardest part is choosing the pose. Of course, if a professional photographer takes pictures, this problem simply does not exist for you. He will always tell you how to stand up, lie down and which way to turn your head. If the photographer in your photo shoot is not a professional, then try to think about the choice of poses in advance.

The key to successful photos is practice. Watch photo shoots done by professionals and try to imitate the model's poses. First practice at home in front of the mirror, in which angles you look best, ask your loved one or friend to take a photo of you at home. This way, you will get rid of any self-consciousness in front of the camera, and you will already have a certain idea of ​​what poses you look best in.

Here are a few options for successful poses, they are simple but effective.

Facial expression plays an important role; there is no way to do this without practicing in front of a mirror. Practice smiling correctly, choose a good tilt of your head and direction of your gaze.

Makeup for a photo shoot in nature

In order for a photo shoot to be successful, you need perfect makeup. So, here are a few tips that will help you look perfect at a photo shoot:

• 72 hours before your shoot, try to eliminate alcohol, red meat, caffeine and spicy foods from your diet. These products can make your skin oilier and cause facial swelling.
• Take care of your eyebrows in advance; they should be of the correct shape and look well-groomed.
• Get your nails done. Even the best photograph can be ruined by chipped nail polish.
• If you dye your hair, be sure to ensure that the hair color is uniform. The regrown roots will be very noticeable in the photo.
• The night before shooting, go to bed early and don’t drink water at night to avoid swelling and bags under your eyes in the morning.
• If you do your own makeup, take a magnifying mirror. Remember, professional cameras capture all the little details and facial defects.
• Makeup for a photo shoot should be brighter and richer than usual.
• Try to achieve the perfect complexion. During the shooting process, always keep powder on hand to remove oily shine from time to time.
• Choose matte eyeshadows; in the photo they look better than pearlescent ones.
• For those with dark skin, it is better to avoid pink, purple and burgundy shades in makeup, but for blondes with fair skin, on the contrary, they are very suitable.

Ideas for an outdoor photo shoot: seasons

Of course, what brings the most comfort and joy is shooting in warm time year, on bright and sunny days. Do not ignore rainy and frosty weather, dawns, nights and twilights; it is at this time that you can take unique and unusual photos.

Autumn photo shoots

• Photos during the golden autumn period turn out bright and delight the eye with a unique melancholy and longing for fading nature. These can be romantic pictures with a hint of sadness. It’s not for nothing that many poets loved this time of year. "It's a sad time! The charm of the eyes!
• Love stories against the backdrop of autumn nature turn out to be very touching and sincere; styles such as grunge, retro, hippie, classic, fantasy, beauty, naturel.
• In a photo shoot against the backdrop of bright nature, contrasting tones should prevail in clothing, such as black, white, blue, purple, green and any other, the main thing is that it does not blend in with the red and yellow foliage. Prints and patterns on clothes look great. The most advantageous options would be checks, stripes and coarse knits. Don't forget about accessories and bright makeup.

• Be sure to take with you various props, such as a bright umbrella, a warm blanket, a scarf, a book, a mug, apples, etc., depending on what image you want to embody.
• Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos on a rainy day; such weather will come in handy for implementing ideas in the style of erotic romance or retro drama. Nature itself dictates eerie and nostalgic ideas.

Winter photo shoots

• At this time of year, especially in snowy weather, atmospheric styles look great. Photos will turn out incredibly beautiful gothic, dark, duck fashion, fantasy styles. Winter is perfect for dark, mysterious subjects: witches, vampires and other fairy-tale characters. Winter is a period of spleen and sadness; bright colors against the backdrop of frozen nature look especially fascinating. The classics will also fit perfectly into the winter atmosphere: high hairstyles, strict makeup and natural furs. If you manage to get out to a village where log huts are still preserved, you can do a photo shoot in the style of Gogol’s “The Night Before Christmas.”
• Makeup for a winter photo shoot should be thought out to the smallest detail. Perfectly even skin tone, clearly defined eyes and eyebrows, bright lips.

• On sunny and fine winter days, you can go out for a photo shoot with the whole family and play in the snow, build a snowman, or ride down an ice slide. Or grab New Year's paraphernalia, champagne, cocoa, sausages and warm blankets, light a fire and have a small family celebration. Such photographs turn out to be very positive and cheerful.

Spring photo shoots

• By the way, they are perfect for a spring photo shoot. easy beauty styles, naturel, classic. You can act as a spring girl against the backdrop of awakening nature. Photos near flowering trees are always beautiful if you play with the subject in an original way and create a unique composition. Spring is considered the most romantic time of the year, and is a wonderful backdrop for various love stories.
• The spring look should be light, muted tones, delicate colors and paints, airy textures. Makeup should echo the palette of shades of nature. The best colors are light lilac, soft pink, green. It is recommended not to do fancy hairstyles on your hair, but to leave it loose.

• The main task of a spring photo shoot is to convey the beauty of nature. Therefore, the model should look neutral, without drawing attention to itself.

Summer photo shoots

• There are so many ideas for a photo shoot in the summer that one may not even be enough. In addition to beautiful photos, you will also soak up the warm sun and get a lot of positive emotions. For shooting, it is better to choose the second half of the day, when the sun is no longer shining so brightly, then the photo will produce softer light. Since summer is a bright time, clothes should be appropriate.

• The seashore, ponds, flowering fields, forests, lawns, haylofts, and parks are great places for shooting in the summer. To embody various themes, historical trends such as cosplay, hippies, grunge, etc. are suitable.

If you want to give your loved one a photo album telling the story of your love, a themed photo session of the couple on the street will allow you to do this. Entrust the organization and conduct of the Love Story photo shoot to professionals, and then successful photo shoots Pairs can be made at any time of the year. There are many options for photography - meeting, first date, kissing and much more. During the photo shoot, you will enjoy communicating with each other, and you will have unforgettable memories.

How to prepare and choose a location for a photo shoot

A photo session of a young couple allows you to realize any creative ideas. To get lively, romantic photo stories, think in detail key points upcoming shooting:

• images of lovers
• outfits and accessories
• makeup and hairstyle
• details for the photo shoot
• suitable poses

Ideal locations for outdoor photo shoots are city parks, public gardens, and cultural monuments. For example, there are many sights in Moscow that will make for amazing photos. Create colorful photos in nature, filled with love and vivid impressions, at any time of the year.

While walking around the city, you can take a few pictures indoors - in a cafe or restaurant. Photographs of two people at home during a party or birthday celebration will be no less successful.

To make your photos look natural, it is important to know how to pose correctly. There are a variety of poses for and indoors:

• a guy hugs a girl by the back or shoulders
• lovers holding hands
• two people stand back to back
• a young man slightly lifts his beloved during an embrace
• the girl and the guy look into each other's eyes and touch their palms

It will work in a field or forest clearing good shot young people while they are jogging. The couple does not have to look into the camera lens - their feelings and emotions will be demonstrated by flirtatious glances, smiles, laughter, and kisses.

Subjects for a love story photo shoot can be in retro style. For example, a man may be dressed in a tuxedo with a top hat on his head. His lady is in a long evening dress, with a pearl necklace around her neck. Casual clothes are suitable for shooting during a romantic walk around the city.

Street photo shoot of two in winter

Winter Love Story involves bright accessories: scarves, hats, mittens. Pose casually, gently hug each other, hold hands. Choose any ideas for winter photography:

• building a snowman
• sledding, ice skating
• romantic meetings in the snow

Come up with an interesting plot in the forest: organize a tea party in the cold or decorate a forest spruce. Wear matching sweaters, take bright details. The result will be fun photos.

Take a colorful photo when lovers are walking with bright balloons, holding hands. Sincere smiles will fill the photo with emotions.

You will get an interesting photo with a portrait frame in a winter forest.

Imagine and create positive mood– run, play in the snow, kiss, and your photo love story will become unforgettable.

Love Story photography in spring

A spring couples photo shoot will bring you great pleasure, and the pictures taken will be filled with romance and tenderness. Come up with an interesting dating story in blooming garden, square. Unusual shots of the two will be obtained against the backdrop of passing trains, stations, rails, surrounded by young greenery. Take a photo on the street near a car, on a motorcycle or with a bicycle.

A good place for a photo shoot of young people will be a clearing by the lake. Spring itself is rich in bright colors, so you shouldn’t choose flashy outfits for shooting. Dress in pastel colors if you are taking photos against a bright background. Only a few contrasting accessories are acceptable.

If you want your photo album to be replenished with high-quality photographs, professional photographers, stylists and makeup artists will help you organize and conduct a street photo shoot in nature. Specialists will prepare a shooting script, select scenery and outfits, makeup and hairstyle, and recommend successful poses. There are many options for shooting:

• on a bright background with a contrasting portrait frame or balls
• retro style
• with various paraphernalia - an armchair, a bed, an umbrella
• in the water in wet clothes
• on a field among grazing animals - horses, sheep
• at home in the garden with a dog or cat, with rabbits

An example of a themed photo shoot in a spring forest: a guy and a girl in black outfits are sitting on chairs with bright capes. There is a small table on the ground. Young people communicate and drink red wine.

Spring is an amazing time of year, personifying the origin of life. You can take great pictures of two people in the rain, when it’s cloudy or windy. Capture your love story against the backdrop of the blue sky and the first warm sun rays. Such shots can tell a lot: about the first meeting with your other half, how you managed to make her fall in love with you, about a romantic date in a park under the crowns of flowering trees.

Summer shooting Love Story

It can be carried out anywhere: on city streets, against the backdrop of architectural monuments, in the forest or in park areas, near fountains.

In the summer, many young people prefer to perform a couple photoshoot in different images:

• retro
• romantic
• characters from fairy tales or movies

During an amateur photo shoot, you can pose freely. With the participation of a professional photographer, posed poses for the couple are selected. Before photographing, every detail is carefully worked out:

• young people's clothing style
• girl's hairstyle, makeup
• themed props – for example, umbrellas, soap bubbles

Examples of a themed summer photo shoot can be different - in the hay in a field, on a swing, with colorful balls, in the forest on a picnic.

Poses for an outdoor photo shoot in the summer should be natural and express the feelings and emotions of young people:

• lovers stand face to face, the girl puts her hand on the guy's shoulder
• two people stand close to each other, while kissing or touching their foreheads
• young people lie on the grass, smile or look tenderly into each other's eyes
• two people walking in an embrace
• lovers use a tree as a support

Summer photography of two is carried out based on their wishes, it can be carried out close-up, in full height or from above.

In Moscow and other cities, young people like to take pictures at fountains. Such photos turn out bright and emotional, full of romance.

Take some fun street photos against stage backdrops with a funky frame by choosing interesting image. A man can be dressed in a light suit and a black top hat, his beloved can pose in a white airy dress.

Shooting Love Story in autumn

An autumn street photo shoot for a couple is sometimes beautiful in any weather, even when it’s cloudy. Bright colors Fallen leaves rustling underfoot create a romantic mood. Arrange an unforgettable photo shoot for your other half in a park, in a forest, near a pond.

Full of life and contrasting photographs will be taken during a walk between two people in clear weather.

Nothing will cheer up your beloved in the fall better than an exciting photo shoot, after which you can make her fall in love with you even more. When shooting a love story, recreate your acquaintance, your first kiss.

Both extravagant and everyday outfits will be appropriate for the Love Story photo. Choose poses that are comfortable for you. Even if it’s cloudy and rainy, the photographer will take wonderful pictures under a bright umbrella.

Photographing young people in the forest will give you an unforgettable experience. You can take a close-up and full-length photo against the backdrop of picturesque nature. The main thing is not to be shy about expressing your feelings - lie or sit on the ground among colorful leaves, play with them; hug, kiss, come up with different ideas.

Choose natural poses for an outdoor photo shoot:

• holding hands
• hugging each other
• lying on the ground
• slightly touching lips
• resting his head on the young man's shoulder
• standing with their backs to each other, turning their heads in opposite directions

You'll get a wonderful couple shot against the backdrop of a tree with bright foliage.

Tell a photo love story while walking around your favorite places. Several photos can be taken indoors or at the entrance to the cafe.

Night shooting Love Story

Photoshoot of two loving people on night city streets is very popular. Among the lights of the city at night, for example, in Moscow, the images of a guy and his chosen one turn out beautiful and mysterious. A photo shoot at night usually requires the participation of a professional photographer who will take truly high-quality photographs. Before you start filming, it is worth discussing the following points with a specialist:

• filming locations
• images of two
• theme of the photoshoot

Park benches, fountains, and street lamps are ideal for creating photographs that will amaze everyone with their originality and beauty. The stylist will help you try on the desired look - he will recommend a stylish suit for young man, an exquisite evening dress for his beloved.

Successful poses for an outdoor photo shoot:

• sitting on the stairs and hugging tenderly
• standing against the backdrop of bright lanterns, palms touching
• standing sideways and holding hands
• slightly touching heads

The photographer will offer you interesting ideas photo shoots to create a romantic mood during a walk. Experiment with different poses and your photos will have a special charm.

Night photography of Love Story is beautiful not only in summer. Spring, autumn and even winter are suitable for a photo shoot. Lovers will look touching and tender during a date at night against the backdrop of falling snow and trees decorated with garlands on the eve of the New Year.

Shooting at home or indoors is not able to convey the full depth of your feelings for each other and the atmosphere of love. Only a street photo shoot will allow you to successfully realize your plans at any time of the year. A romantic photo session of a couple on the street always looks natural, sincere and sincere.

If you are suddenly overtaken by a creative impasse, have run out of new ideas, or are just looking for a little hint for photographing a girl, then you can use sketches as a starting cheat sheet, because they are one of the most important stages of preparation. The more carefully they are thought out, the more interesting photos you will receive as a result of photography. Many professional photographers use this technique when preparing for and during a photo shoot. Poses of girls for a photo shoot This article should be used as a starting point, and it is best to review and discuss suggested angles with your model, especially if she has little experience. This way, you will be able to establish psychological contact with the model. During the photo shoot, do not hesitate to ask the model for her opinion on which poses she likes best. This helps both the model and the photographer feel more confident, and in the end, get decent results. It will be very useful if before the photo shoot the model thinks about what she wants to see in the pictures, what she wants to emphasize? Innocence? Sexuality? Maybe something romantic? Or some special character traits? What types of poses will work best for her? The following poses are a hint not only for the model, but also for the photographer; you can print them out or send them to your phone and carry them with you as a cheat sheet that will help you in difficult times.

In this article, each pose presented has a photograph as an illustration. All pictures are taken from the Internet (mainly from the site //500px.com), copyright belongs to their authors.

So, let's look: successful poses of girls for a photo shoot.

2. Very often, when shooting portraits, both the model and the photographer forget about the position of their hands. However, something creative can happen if you ask the model to play with her hands, trying out different positions on her head and face. The main thing to remember is one rule - no flat, tense palms: the hands should be soft, flexible and, preferably, they should not be facing directly into the frame with the palm or back of the hand.

3. You are probably familiar with such a compositional rule as.

4. A very cute pose for a sitting model - with your knees together.

5. Another open and attractive pose - the model lies on the ground. Get down and take the shot almost from ground level.

6. And again, an option for a lying position: you can ask the model to play with her hands - fold them or calmly lower them to the ground. A great angle for shooting outdoors, among flowers and grasses.

7. The most basic pose, but it looks simply stunning. You need to shoot from the lower level; walk around the model in a circle, taking pictures from different angles. The model should be relaxed, you can change the position of the arms, hands, and head.

8. And this amazing pose is well suited for girls with any figure. Try different positions of your legs and arms, focusing on the model's eyes.

9. Cute and playful pose. Great for almost any setting: on the bed, in the grass or on the beach. Take a photo of the model from a low position, focusing on the eyes.

10. A wonderful way to demonstrate beautiful figure models. Perfectly emphasizes the silhouette against a bright background.

11. Another friendly pose for a seated model. Position the model so that one knee is pressed to the chest and the other leg, also bent at the knee, lies on the ground. The gaze is directed into the lens. Try using different shooting angles for better results.

12. A great way to demonstrate all the beauty and plasticity of the model’s body. Can be used as a silhouette pose against a bright background.

13. Simple and natural position with plenty of possible options. Let the model experiment with the position of the hips, arms, and head.

14. Simple and at the same time elegant pose. The model is turned slightly to the side, hands in the back pockets.

15. A slight forward tilt can unobtrusively emphasize the model’s shape. It looks very attractive and sexy.

16. A sensual pose with raised arms emphasizes the smooth curves of the body. Well suited for slim and fit models.

17. The options for posing in full height are simply endless; this position can be taken as a starting point. Ask the model to easily turn her body, change the position of her arms, head, direction of gaze, etc.

18. This pose looks quite relaxed. Don't forget that you can lean against the wall not only with your back, but also with your shoulder, arm or hip.

19. Full-length shots are quite specific and are better suited for tall, slender models. Here's a little secret: the model's body should resemble English letter S, weight is transferred to one leg, arms are in a relaxed state.

20. One of best poses for slender models with a huge number of possible options. To get the best position, ask your model to slowly change the position of her arms and continuously bend her body.

21. Romantic, tender pose. Use different fabrics and draperies. With their help you can get sensual photographs. It is not necessary to expose your entire back: often, even a slightly bare shoulder creates a flirty mood.

22. A good pose for a photo shoot and an excellent angle from which the model appears slimmer. The model stands sideways, with her chin slightly down and her shoulder slightly raised. Please note that there should be a small distance between the chin and shoulder.

23. Often, ordinary poses are the most successful. The model should transfer the weight of the body to one leg, while bending the body into an S-shape.

24. The model touches a vertical surface, such as a wall or tree, lightly with both hands. The pose is suitable for a portrait shot.

25. If the model is blessed with beautiful long hair– be sure to show them in motion. Ask her to quickly turn her head to allow the hair to develop. Experiment with shutter speed to get clear or blurry shots that highlight movement.

26. In the next pose, the model is sitting on a sofa or bed. If you give a girl a cup of coffee, you can get a thematic photo (for example, the girl was cold, and now she is resting and warming up).

27. An excellent and comfortable pose that is suitable for a photo shoot in the house, studio on the couch and more...

28. Beautiful pose for a model sitting on a sofa.

29. Excellent for photographing a model sitting on the ground. The photographer can shoot from different angles.

30. You can experiment in a sitting position; you should not limit yourself only to certain subject poses.

31. It is believed that crossing legs and arms between people creates a certain psychological barrier, and this is not recommended when taking photographs. However, this is not always the case. The photographer should try to take a photo where the model's arms are crossed over her chest. This is a great pose for a women's photo shoot.

Anton Rostovskiy

32. It’s not always worth coming up with a certain hand position. It is completely normal to leave them in a natural position, relaxed. The same can be said about the legs. The only thing to remember is that while standing, the model must transfer her body weight to one leg.

33. Another example of a full body photo pose that is perfect for a photo shoot. The girl's hands, fully or partially, are in her pockets.

34. This pose is perfect for a summer photo shoot. Ask the model to take off her shoes and walk slowly.

35. The model’s hands behind her back, an unusual, but very open and sincere pose. The model can also lean against the wall.

36. For decent official portraits, a very simple, and at the same time, effective position is suitable. The model stands slightly sideways, with her face turned towards the photographer, her head tilted slightly to the side.

37. The model will look very harmonious in the frame if you place both hands on your waist. The pose is suitable for half-length and full-length portraits.

38. If there is any tall piece of furniture nearby that you can lean on with one hand, be sure to use it. This will help create a formal, but at the same time free and inviting pose.

39. Another good position is to sit on something. Well suited for both indoor and outdoor shooting.

40. An example of a feminine and winning pose for a full-length shot of a model.

41. A rather complex pose, due to the fact that you need to convey the movement of the model. However, if done correctly, the reward will be a great, elegant fashion shot.

42. Great pose, although it will require certain camera settings: the girl is leaning on a fence or bridge railing. A large aperture will provide shallow depth of field and a blurry background.

43. A great pose if done with its features in mind. Correct placement of hands and feet plays here decisive role. Ideal for any body type. Please note that shooting should be done from a slightly elevated position.

44. A great pose for intimate photography. Well used in various environments, bed, beach, etc.

45. Another interesting pose. We take the angle from the bottom point. The upper part of the model's body is slightly raised, and the head is slightly tilted down. The legs are bent at the knees upward, the feet are crossed.

46. ​​This pose is not the easiest. There are a few things to pay attention to: the arm the model is leaning on should be facing away from the body, the abdominal muscles should be under control, and the legs should be extended. The pose is ideal for a sporty body type.

47. The next difficult pose requires professionalism from the photographer. For a successful final result, he must take into account the position of all parts of the body - head, arms, waist (there should be no folds in the skin!), hips and legs.

We bring to your attention a concentrate of knowledge that will help you create professional-quality portraits in nature. We will provide you with the necessary information regarding both the composition of the frame and the selection of equipment, camera settings, techniques for using external flashes and other aspects of shooting in open space.

We'll start by discussing the equipment needed and how to use it. We will look at the key aspects portrait photography in the open air: controlling depth of field, selecting lenses, controlling exposure, controlling natural light, and even using external flashes and basic techniques for shooting in mixed lighting conditions so that you can realize almost any creative vision.

And for those photographers who like to photograph the “plein air” itself – nature – we invite you to get acquainted with our other article from the “Shoot professionally!” series.

Summer is the most suitable time of year for outdoor photography, despite the variability of the weather.

Firstly, in summer the length daylight hours maximum. You can shoot from dawn to dusk. Secondly, the air (and water) temperature is warm enough to keep you and your subject comfortable throughout the shoot. Thirdly, warm and bright summer, unlike cold winter“fuels” the joyful mood of most people. In a good mood, creating a beautiful portrait is a little easier.

However, sunlight and a suitable model are not a guarantee of quality results. Therefore, we have selected and well structured information, “collected” a guide that will help you not just create, but “master” portraits.

Necessary equipment

To photograph portraits outdoors, you don't need a large number of expensive equipment. The list of necessary equipment includes only three items:

• Lens supplied with the camera;
• External flash;
• Reflector.

Useful additions

If you want to get results at a higher quality level, pay attention to the list of additional equipment. It will expand your capabilities, in particular in lighting control.

• A fast lens with a fixed focal length and fast autofocus (for example, with a focal length of 50 mm and a minimum aperture of 1.8);
• Varifocal long focal lens (zoom-telephoto lens);
• Radio synchronization kit;
• Diffuse nozzle for external flash.

Basics of plein air portrait photography

Before we dive into outdoor portrait photography techniques, start with... the basics.

The shoot place

One of the nice things about plein air photography is that you can photograph almost anywhere: in your own garden or on a famous exotic beach. What matters is how you use the chosen location.

There are several simple and transparent rules.

If the shooting location allows, include the background in the frame. This way you will diversify the portrait and be able to convey the atmosphere of the scene you are shooting. If the place is not picturesque, reduce the depth of field of the depicted space or build a frame, limiting its content only to the image of the model. You will be able to focus your attention on the person.

The most expressive portraits are obtained when the composition is simple and clear. Choose simple objects as the background, such as the sky, wall or foliage. This type of background makes the model stand out.

However, rules are there to be broken. In particular, when creating atmospheric photographs. When depicting the environment is more important than showing the model.

Composition and framing

Try to position the model in the frame in accordance with the rule of thirds, so that her face (in half-length or full-length portraits) or eyes (in shoulder or face portraits) play the role of the semantic center. The composition will be clearer to the viewer than when significant objects are located in the center of the frame.

When photographing the body partially, not at full height, take care of framing. Rely on the “rule of thumb” here: do not place parts of the human body where the limbs or body bend (knees, elbows, wrists, ankles, pelvis, etc.) close to the edges of the frame.

Daylight. Make the most of it.

Bright and direct sunlight seems like ideal lighting at first glance. In fact, with such lighting, most often, the best shots are not obtained. While the midday sun is high in the sky, unsightly, thick shadows form under the model's nose, chin and brow ridges.

If you put the model facing the sun, she will begin to squint. It will be difficult to get an attractive result with this position of the model relative to the light source.

A simple solution is to ask the model to move into the shadows. Adjust white balance. If the background is illuminated by direct sunlight, the model's skin may take on a blue tint in the photo. Because the camera will most likely adjust the white balance based on the brighter part of the scene being photographed - the background.

If you can't find consistent shade on cloudy days, choose the right moment to shoot. The cloud will cover the sun and thereby dissipate direct sunlight.

Shooting in variable lighting conditions will require you to act quickly and accurately. Also, remember that light intensity may vary, so keep an eye on your exposure.

Make sure you judge the exposure based on the illumination of the model, and not on the illumination of the light or dark background.

In cloudless weather, you can cope with unwanted shadows on the body and face of the model with the help of diffusers. It is enough to place it between the light source - the sun and the model. The diffuser plays the role of a cloud here. It can be a simple piece of translucent white material or a separate special device.

Diffusers small sizes, they are the easiest to find and help in shooting shoulder and face portraits. When shooting half-length and full-length portraits, you will need a diffuser large area. Finding one can be difficult.

Even when taking facial portraits, it will be easier for you if you involve an assistant. Find someone willing to hold the reflector in position while you photograph the model.

Your photos will take on a completely different mood if you position the light source behind your subject. Here you should avoid underexposure. A brightly lit background can fool your camera's light meter. Compensate the exposure by +1 - +2 EV.

(approx. translator - you can learn more about exposure, overexposure and underexposure, the “EV” designation from the first part of the series “Fundamentals of Photography”, and exposure compensation - from the fourth section of the fourth part.)

Facial portrait in backlight without using a reflector.

If there are visible shadows on the model's face, or it is simply dark, use a reflector. This is one of the most simple ways additionally illuminate the model or the desired fragment of the scene being filmed. The surface of the reflector can be silver, gold or white. Each surface reflects light differently.

Facial portrait in backlight using a white reflector.

The white surface reflects light, making it softer, and the effect of using a reflector is more invisible. The silver surface reflects light head-on, like a mirror, and in greater quantities than the white surface. The silver and golden surfaces are similar, but the reflection from the latter “warms” the lighting. Yellowish, “warm” light is perfect for portraits.

Facial portrait in backlight using a silver reflector.

It is enough to place the reflector on the side opposite the light source to highlight dark areas on the model’s body or soften the thick shadows on her face formed by direct, “hard” light. The result will be of better quality.

Control depth of field

Images of only certain objects in the scene being photographed in sharp focus make the perception of the photograph easier for the viewer.

When the depth of field of the imaged space (hereinafter, DOF) is small, you can concentrate the viewer's attention on what is in sharpness. What is “blurred” is unclear - it is perceived in passing, in the last place.

When you deliberately increase the depth of field, other details of the scene - for example, the background - begin to attract the viewer's attention, which is scattered on the model.

The depth of field is influenced by three factors: aperture value, focal length and shooting distance - the distance from the photographer to the object brought into sharp focus. The ability to control depth of field is developed with practice. Below we will show how these factors affect the depth of field.

Aperture value

Controlling the depth of field using the aperture is easy. To reduce DOF, shoot with a small aperture (open aperture), such as 2.8 or 4.

To keep most of the scene in sharp focus, set great importance aperture (“close” the aperture), for example, equal to 11 or 16.

High-quality lenses with a fixed focal length, like the 50mm F1:1.8 (focal length is 50mm, aperture is 1.8), allow you to create a very small depth of field. Therefore, they are ideal for portrait photography.

Focal length

If other conditions that affect depth of field do not change, then a lens with a larger focal length will depict the background more “blurred” than a lens with a shorter focal length. To “blur” the background sufficiently, try photographing with a focal length of 55 - 70 mm.

Shooting distance

Finally, the distance from the photographer to the subject affects the depth of field. The further you are from the model, the greater the depth of field, the more details of the scene you are shooting that are distant from the model will be depicted in sharpness. On the contrary, the closer you get to the model, the smaller the depth of field, the more the background “blurs out”.

The facial portrait was created using a lens with a focal length of 85 mm and an aperture value of 2. The depth of field of the imaged space turned out to be small.

You may find it easier to approach the model to blur the background more.

The shooting distance depends on the focal length of your lens, as well as the composition of the frame - what you want to show in the latter and what to hide outside of it.

The focal length and aperture value remain the same. However, the distance to the model decreased - we came closer to it. Following it, the depth of field decreased.

Achieving shallow depth of field is easier when shooting head-on or shoulder-length portraits than when photographing a full-length model.

Also, remember, you can get a shallow depth of field if you shoot with a long lens. However, if the shooting distance is too small - you come close to the model - then the image may turn out distorted.

Focus modes in plein air portrait photography

In most cases, to make a photo look attractive, show at least one of the subject's eyes in sharp focus. When the depth of field is small, monitor the focusing accuracy.

In static scenes, while the model is motionless, you can use both automatic and manual focusing modes. Both modes are quite effective here. Set the autofocus mode to Single or One Shot. You can focus the subject's eye by pressing the shutter button halfway.

In dynamic scenes, when the subject is moving, set the camera to continuous autofocus mode (Servo or Continuous). Now the camera can “guide” a moving object. Although, when the depth of field is small, it is difficult to get the maximum sharp image"conducted" object.

Choosing the right focus sensor will increase the accuracy of focusing the desired subject. You can specify the sensor opposite which the image of the model's eye is located. Usage various sensors focusing can save you time compared to focusing on the central sensor and then rebuilding the frame.

Selection of lenses

You may have heard rumors that some lenses distort perspective. This is not entirely true. The perspective remains the same for any lens, but its perception by the observer changes depending on the distance to the object being photographed. Lenses only highlight a part of the surrounding space that will be captured in the photo.

The idea that lens focal length affects perspective is based on an intuitive fact. To “place” the subject being photographed in the frame using a long focal length (long focal length) lens, a greater shooting distance is required than using a short focal length (wide angle) lens.

When photographing a scene with a long lens, you can see how the apparent distance between the background and the subject being photographed “shrinks.” Conversely, it “increases” as the focal length decreases.

Traditional Lenses in Portrait Photography

The focal length of lenses classically used in shooting portraits is in the range of 40 – 70 mm if you plan to install the lens on a camera with a reduced matrix (APS-C format), or in the range of 60 – 105 mm in conjunction with a full-frame camera.

With lenses with the specified focal lengths, it is convenient to shoot facial and shoulder portraits. The image of the model’s body parts and face is “distorted” minimally.

Advantages

• A long focal length ensures that the shooting distance is sufficient for the images to be “undistorted”;
• If you use a discrete lens - with a fixed focal length - then you have the opportunity to obtain a small depth of field. The aperture ratio of discrete lenses is higher than that of varifocal lenses - with variable focal lengths;

Flaws

• The specified range of focal lengths is widely used. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to obtain an original portrait, relying only on the shooting angle and perspective image: the shooting distance remains almost unchanged.

Long focal length lenses in plein air portrait photography

A long shooting distance and a long focal length lens are an effective “tandem”. The background, as well as objects in the background, “come closer” to the model. The scene being filmed turns into a chamber, closed one.

The effect is easy to implement in front and shoulder portraits. But in full-body photography, you need space. When choosing a shooting location, assess whether you can move the required distance from the model.

Advantages

• Simply achieve a shallow depth of field;
• As the shooting distance increases, the background and foreground “come closer” to the subject being photographed;

Flaws

• When the distance from you to the model is large, it is more difficult to communicate with her;
• To photograph a full-length, knee-, waist- or chest-length model, you will need a lot of space.

Wide-angle lenses in plein air portrait photography

Lenses with a focal length of 18 mm or less, mounted on a camera with an APS-C format sensor (28 mm or less in conjunction with a full-frame camera) are rarely used in portrait photography.

However, they are indispensable assistants when it is necessary to show the background or in shooting full-length portraits, when it is impossible to increase the distance to the model: there is not enough space.

Beware of geometric distortions. When you get close, the proportions of the model's body change - the limbs can lengthen relative to her height.

It would be a good idea for your model to have a good sense of humor and understand the implications of shooting with a wide-angle lens at close range. Not everyone likes to see exorbitantly short or long legs, arms and necks in photographs.

Advantages

• It's much easier to show what's happening in the background with a wide-angle lens than with a long lens;
• You can create full-length portraits at a comfortable distance between you and the model;

Flaws

• By getting too close to the model, you will depict her body with distorted proportions (however, you can use the effect for artistic purposes);
• With a wide-angle lens, it is difficult to achieve shallow depth of field.

Two approaches to shooting with external flash

Many amateur photographers exclude flash photography from their practice because the latter can create direct, “hard” lighting. This tendency should not interfere with your practice. Learn a few basic flash techniques and practice. You will significantly expand your capabilities in shooting portraits outdoors.

There are two effective approaches. First, you can diffuse the flash light using an appropriate attachment, such as an umbrella or softbox. Such attachments increase the area of ​​the light source and, as a result, “soften” the light, creating translucent shadows with unclear contours.

This approach has a peculiarity. The light intensity decreases when diffused. When shooting in open space, keep in mind that the pulse power may not be enough to illuminate the model sufficiently.

The second approach is to use "hard" lighting as means of expression. Here it is best to place the external flash on the side of the model.

You'll be able to simulate the lighting created by the sun at dawn or dusk, giving your photos a dramatic effect.

Using an external flash in plein air photography

Most TTL systems (abbreviated from the English through the lens - “through the lens”) - automatic exposure measurement based on light reflected from the subject being photographed into the lens - try to adjust the pulse power in accordance with the intensity of the fill, ambient, lighting. However, you can control the intensity of light produced by the flash yourself by using the Flash Power Compensation feature.

If the model appears too dark in the photo, compensate the pulse power to minus. For example, set the flash compensation value to -1 EV. If the model appears too light, set positive value compensation, for example, equal to +1 EV.

The only thing you should remember is that when using pulsed light sources, the shutter speed should not be shorter than the sync speed. The latter is usually equal to 1/200 of a second or “nearby” values. In other words, don't set your shutter speed faster than 1/200 second if you're shooting in shutter priority mode (S or Av) or manual mode (M).

Adjust exposure in mixed lighting

Manually controlling the exposure and output of an external flash can seem otherworldly. In fact, the success of manual control lies in setting required values individual parameters in the required order.

Switch the camera to manual shooting mode (“M”), set the minimum sensitivity value (ISO). Now adjust the exposure by judging the intensity of the fill light.

When the ambient light is bright, set the shutter speed to the same value as the sync speed, such as 1/200 second. Then set your aperture so that the background illuminated by constant light is slightly underexposed. Take a text photo.

Once the aperture value is selected, adjust the flash power. Many modern external flashes show the optimal distance from the flash to the subject at which it will be sufficiently illuminated - normally exposed. This distance depends on the current aperture value and flash power.

Use the results of calculations made by the flash electronics to adjust the flash power according to the actual distance from the flash to the model. Typically, in bright ambient light, 1/4 full flash power to 1/1 full power is required.

When the distance between the flash and the subject matches the calculated distance, take a test shot. If the model is too lit, move the flash slightly away from the model or reduce the flash output. If the model is not well lit, move the flash closer to it or increase the flash power.

Two universal techniques for using external flash

Technique #1. Flash as fill light

The easiest way is to use the camera's built-in flash or install an external flash, connecting it directly through the hot shoe connector.

Please note that the flash, emitting light from the side of the camera, creates unpleasant lighting if it serves as the main light source.

However, this flash position is ideal for creating fill light. The essence of the technique is that the flash highlights the shadows formed on the model’s face when it is illuminated by sunlight. In this case, the sun plays the role of a drawing light source.

Technique #2. External flash as a key light source

Using an external flash as an independent light source, remote from the camera, may seem like a privilege for professionals. Try to implement the technique in question, with its help you will instantly transform your photos. You have the ability to track results instantly and simple and inexpensive ways to synchronize the flash pulse with the moment the camera shutter opens.

You can “design” beautiful lighting by placing one or more flashes in any location, regardless of where the camera is.

Three ways to sync with external flash

When you shoot outdoors, you hardly want to deal with wires. There are three main ways to wirelessly sync external flashes. The method you choose depends on your camera, flash and, to some extent, your budget.

Built-in camera flash control system

Most camera manufacturers equip modern models with a function that allows you to remotely control external flashes. The control options are just as wide as when the flash is attached to the camera using the hot shoe connector.

Camera models like the Canon 600D or Nikon D7000 can synchronize an external flash remotely. The flash built into them plays the role of a conductor in the process.

If your camera does not allow you to remotely control external flashes, then you will need to attach to the camera either an external flash that has the function of remotely controlling other flashes, or a special device - an external flash controller.

The use of any of the listed remote control methods assumes device compatibility. Often, this means that external flashes and the camera must come from the same manufacturer.

The main disadvantage of the built-in remote control system is that its range is only about 10 meters (or less in bright sun), and there must be a line of sight between the synchronized flash and the camera.

Radio synchronization

If setting the exposure manually does not cause you problems, then using a simple radio synchronization kit is the cheapest and most convenient way to solve the problem in question.

A radio sync kit (receiver and transmitter) allows you to use almost any external flash (not necessarily from the same manufacturer as the camera). But only if you are ready to adjust the pulse power yourself.

Also, the range of action of such kits is much higher than that of the remote flash control system built into the camera. Also, they do not require a direct line of sight between the flash and the camera. This way, you can place the sync flash behind a tree or wall, for example, to hide it in the scene you're shooting.

The cost of simple radio synchronization kits is low, starting from 850 rubles. for a set, for example, from the manufacturer Wansen.

Radio sync supporting TTL

The radio synchronization kits under consideration complement the advantages of their “younger brothers” with the ability to automatically control the TTL flash power of your camera. However, to implement this feature, the external flash must support such control.

With radio sync kits that support TTL, lighting setup can be greatly simplified. However, the cost of the kit starts from 6,200 rubles, for example, for a kit from the manufacturer Pixel.