Portrait photographers can do more than just snap a boring photo of someone looking directly at the camera. A true portrait photographer will put a lot of effort into the perfect shot – lighting, background, subject, style, editing, and more!
Portrait Photographers in Business Settings
You may think that it’s easy to snap business portraits. The truth is, business headshots require a lot of planning, and consistency throughout the shoot. Most companies will choose to hire a business portrait photographer to come into the office one day, and photograph everyone the same way, so a level of consistency across the company can be achieved. The photographer needs to take a few things into consideration before they begin shooting, like lighting. If the photographer is shooting by a window and using natural light, for example, they would need to decide whether all staff can be photographed in the same light, or whether it will take longer and therefore the light will change drastically. They also need direction on the vision of these business headshots, where they’ll be used, etc. so they can make background suggestions as well as position employees in the same way to represent the brand appropriately.
Portrait Photographers in Lifestyle Photography
A lifestyle photographer taking portrait photos also requires a vision from the client as to what they would like to shoot and the mood they want the finished photos to have. Not only is the space and style of a photo important in the moment, but it’s also important for when the photographer goes back and edits the best photos. For example, are your family portraits meant to be light and full of laughter, or are they more serious and therefore need the colours around you to be less bright? Editing can truly change the mood of a photo so make sure your photographer knows what your vision is for the shoot and what you’d like to do with the printed or digital photos.
Key Tips When Looking for a Portrait Photographer
Make sure you do your research and look online at the photographer’s portfolio to make sure their style meets your expectations. Some of these are family memories that will live on forever in albums and you want them to look just right. Meet with the portrait photographer ahead of time and in person if possible. Make sure you will feel comfortable with them being in charge of the portrait shoot on the day and that their personality is also something you can work well with. Emotion comes across in photographs so make sure this is someone you can get along with and follow the directions of!
Let’s work together! Contact us to discuss your next portrait photography session.