Fine Art Portrait Photography can open new doors for photographers. It’s a great avenue to explore and it may even get you commissions for your art.

When we use the term Fine Art Portrait photography, we are not just talking about a photo of a person. To bring in an element of fine art, an additional touch must be added. An example would be taking a picture of someone with fairy wings or capturing a photo of a child with a wild animal.

You can also use angles and colors to give photos an avant garde touch that would elevate them to fine art status.

One of the most challenging things about any kind of portrait photography is working with people. If your model doesn’t look comfortable, it could kill the vibe of the photo.

This article will discuss how to capture fine art portrait photography so you end up with images you, and your clients, are happy with.

What are the Best Poses for Fine Art Portrait Photography?

The first thing a portrait photographer should be aware of is the poses that will make great modern art. It may require putting the subject in an ‘out of the box’ position that will add interest. Here are some that are recommended.

·        Creating separation between the arms and body, such as arms out to the side

·        Tucking arms behind the body, to the point where they almost look like they are not there

·        Jutting the chin out away from the neck

·        Arching the back and dropping the shoulders

·        Tilting the head back

·        Twisting the body

·        Incorporating motion in a way that looks realistic

·        Creating shape with the body

Choose the Right Background

In some cases, the background can make the photo. For instance, if you take a picture against a printed background, you can make the photo stand out by body painting the subject to match the background.

But if you don’t want the background to play such a big role in the photo, it’s best to go with something neutral and uncluttered. However, you never want your background to be totally plain so seek out settings with interesting colors and textures.

Darker backgrounds are also advisable If you use a dark background, it will be easy to get the right exposure on your subject’s face.

Make Your Subject Feel at Ease

You don’t want your subject to feel uncomfortable. That will show in the photo and get in the way of you getting the results you are looking for.

To get them in the right place mentally, be friendly and tell jokes. Let them know the types of shots you are looking for so they can pose accordingly.

If you are photographing children, speak to them gently and make the shoot seem like a playdate. Encourage them to have fun and not pay too much attention to the camera.

You should also make sure your subject is not wearing anything that can ruin the photo, like metal that can catch a bad reflection. Lint on the clothing or a half tucked in shirt can also get in the way of you getting a good shot.

Get Your Subject in Focus

The person you are shooting is the focal point of your photo. You don’t want them to appear blurry or not well lit.

Be sure to bring in extra lights and reflectors to illuminate your subject’s face. This will be especially important if you’re working outside where light can change.

The focal length will come into play in making sure your subject’s features look clear. For the most part, a focal length of 50 mm will be ideal, but you may have to adjust as you go.

Blur the Background

While you will want to make sure your subject is in focus, a blurry background may be the perfect added touch. It will help the person stand out while creating an unusual look that makes your photo unique.

You can get a blurry background look by adjusting the lens aperture.

Aperture is measured in f/stops and the smaller the number the larger the aperture. Larger apertures are best for creating blurred backgrounds.

Now that you know the steps to take great fine art portrait photography, you are on your way to opening a new world for yourself and your career. What tips do you have for photographers who are starting out in this direction?

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