If you’re just beginning your journey into portrait photography —or even if you’re simply curious about how a professional session works—this guide is for you. It’s designed to demystify the process, share tried‑and‑true tips, and help you craft beautiful, expressive portraits that truly stand out.
1. Prioritise Light
Lighting is the cornerstone of compelling portraits. Natural light often yields the most flattering results, making early morning or late afternoon—when the light is soft—the ideal time to shoot. In indoor settings, position your subject near a window; observe where light and shadows fall, and choose which features to highlight and which to soften.
As one professional notes: for outdoor sessions, the early morning is a reliable window—even if it looks like any other time of day. The advantage? Fewer crowds, fresh energy from the subject, and a naturally glowing look that doesn’t feel staged.
2. Build Trust with Your Subject
Portraits become memorable when the person feels seen and comfortable. Taking the time to chat, share stories, or simply relax together before / during the shoot can make a real difference. When the subject feels like they’re hanging out with a friend rather than facing a lens, the expressions you capture tend to be more genuine and alive.
3. Play with Composition
Once you’ve found the light and connection, composition becomes your creative playground. Use angles, framing, and perspectives to add visual interest. The “rule of thirds” is a great starting point, but don’t feel bound by it—breaking the rule can lead to fresh and compelling results.
Consider introducing props or incorporating pets for a different energy. A well‑behaved animal can change the vibe of a session, bringing calm or candidness in unexpected ways.
4. Focus on the Eyes
As the saying goes, the eyes are the windows to the soul—and in portrait photography, they need to be sharp. Use a wide aperture (a low f‑stop number) to get a shallow depth of field, which helps the eyes stand out against a softened background. Prime lenses, such as a 50 mm f/1.8 or an 85 mm f/1.4, excel in this.
Also pay attention to catchlights—the reflections of light in the subject’s eyes. These can add sparkle and depth. Ask your subject to look directly into the lens to form a real connection with the viewer.
5. Choose the Right Background
A great subject needs the right setting. Opt for simple, uncluttered backgrounds that support the portrait instead of competing with it. For example, charming cobblestone alleys, tree‑lined pathways, elegant courtyards or minimalist cafés can all serve as effective backdrops.
Of course, the subject’s personality and style should guide the location choice—some may prefer bold iconic terrains, others a serene backdrop that keeps all attention on the subject. And remember: when it’s cold or wintery, look for architectural or interior spots instead of parks.
6. Capture the Candid Moments
While posed portraits are classic and beautiful, candid shots carry a unique authenticity. Especially when photographing two people, look for moments when they forget the camera is there—real smiles, genuine interaction, relaxed energy. With solo subjects, you might introduce a gentle distraction—a nearby object, a walking route, an everyday task—to prompt natural reactions. These moments often produce the portraits people will treasure most.
7. Edit Thoughtfully
Post‑processing should elevate, not overpower. After the shoot, choose subtle adjustments: exposure, contrast, color balance, cropping to improve composition, and spot‑healing only when necessary. Straightening horizons, sharpening carefully to avoid noise, and fine‑tuning tones and skin hues all contribute to a polished result.
The key here is consistency in your editing style—it becomes part of your artistic signature. And remember: If the raw file shows issues (exposure problems, harsh light, unwanted background elements), next time you’ll be better prepared.
8. Practice Relentlessly and Seek Inspiration
Like any creative skill, portrait photography demands ongoing practice. Take your camera out without a rigid plan. Wander, observe, experiment. These “just for fun” sessions will sharpen your eye for light, angle, technique—and they often lead to serendipitous treasures.
Equally important: look beyond your own work for inspiration. Study the work of seasoned photographers—both classic and contemporary. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are gold mines for fresh ideas, while print photography books or museum exhibits can offer a more tactile, immersive experience. Connecting with other photographers, exchanging ideas, and simply making it fun keeps your creativity alive.
9. Above All, Enjoy the Process
Technical skills are important—but joy is essential. Don’t be discouraged when the “perfect” shot doesn’t show up. Many professionals will tell you, more often than not only one standout image emerges from a hundred. That’s part of the journey.
As you keep practicing, your rate of success will improve. You’ll develop rhythm, confidence, and your own unique style. And eventually, you’ll go from having too few good shots to having too many—and that’s a very good problem to have.
In short: by focusing on light, connection, composition, candid moments, and consistent editing—and by feeding your inspiration and nurturing your joy—you’re well on your way to capturing portrait work that resonates. Keep shooting, keep exploring, and trust that every session brings you closer to the images you dream of.
