Lightening and sharpening eyes

As I was editing pictures of my baby sisters engagement shoot it struck me how important it is to focus on the details of a picture  In particular the eyes of a subjects. My sister has beautiful dark brown eyes but they can become lost in the photograph because they do not catch light very well. Why is it important that an eye catch light do you ask? Well the photograph bellow will answer your question. Keep in mind the only thing I changed in this photograph is her eyes. Doesn't it make a huge difference?

 

Now look at the two photographs in Black and white. Having the eyes catch light is especially important in black and white pictures because all other distractions are taken away and you will be drawn into the sharpest part of the picture.

I have included a video tutorial on how to accomplish this yourself. I hope it helps you to create wonderful portraits!

#1 Rule in Photography

Over the past couple of years and especially days I have come to the great conclusion that many photographers have reached. If there is one trick, tip, or key to gaining skill in photography its to pick up your camera and start taking pictures. The more you take risks in photography, stretch outside of your comfort-zone, and simply start taking pictures, the more you learn and the more your skill will grow. So...My challenge to you this week is to pick up your camera, find a subject that is outside of your norm, and start taking pictures!!!

Practicing Wedding Photography

These are pictures of my sister and her husband. I took these pictures in order to practice for a wedding I am photographing this summer. The sun decided to go to bed early that night which was a challenge however it was some much needed practice.  

Portrait Photography Tips

Here are some portrait shots I took about a year ago. It's fun to look back at old pictures and critique your own pictures, and see how far you have come.




Three Tips I have learned through taking portraits.

1. Details - I am not naturally a person who looks for the details, a stray hair in someones face, or dirt on a subject's shirt. But when photographing a subject it is key to make sure you, as the photographer, catch all of the little details. Or else what could have been a great shot will be ruined by missing a piece of grass that is poking out of the subjects sleeve.

2. Posture - One of the most frustrating things for me when taking portraits is dealing with a subject's posture. This is a difficult problem to overcome. As the photographer you want the subject to feel comfortable, but many times people naturally have bad posture. One way I have found to overcome this issue is playing with different poses. Have the subject prop up on her elbows while lying on her stomach, or have him lean his arm against a tree. Remember a pose does not work for that particular subject don't force it, each subject is different. A pose that may have worked for one subject may not work for another.

3. Come prepared - Treat every photo shoot as if you are getting paid for it. This will stretch your photography skills, build up your portfolio, and might even book you a job. Make sure you have an idea of what you want to get out of the photo shoot. Come with poses in mind, you could even write them down so you have an organized list in front of you. Make sure you have full batteries and empty memory cards. Finally make your subject is comfortable, the more relaxed and comfortable your subject the more likely you will get that "money" shot.