TIPS FOR BETTER PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHS FOR BUSINESS & SOCIAL MEDIA SITES

•  Don’t have a distracting background, something plain is better. We’re all naturally curious, if there’s something going on behind you, people will be inclined to look at whatever it is, taking their attention away from you.
• Get in close, fill the picture with your face.  Nobody is going to recognise you from your arms or the top that you’re wearing that day.
• Don’t wear sunglasses, especially if you’re indoors. It may look cool in the summer but not in January.  Also people want to see your eyes, they’re the “window to your soul”.  You want people to trust you, let them look you straight in the eye.
• Look straight at the camera, similar to above, you want to engage with people who are viewing your profile.  Beware though you don’t want to end up with a passport photograph.  Don’t sit or stand straight on, possibly have one shoulder towards the camera, be slightly three quarters on and turn your head a bit to the camera.
• Smile.  Not too much, you don’t want to look scary or manic.  On the other hand, you don’t want to look too serious or mean (unless you’re a bailiff).  Just a relaxed, welcoming half smile. People like to engage with people who they think will be pleasant to deal with.
• Dress smart, wear something professional looking. The visual equivalent of having a polished C.V.
• Try, wherever possible to find a soft light source such as from a large window.   Avoid harsh lighting such as direct sunlight, as not only will the subject most probably be squinting but it will be very unflattering.  Most advertising photographs are very softly lit and you are in essence advertising yourself.  On camera flash should also be avoided as it often gives “redeye” and can cast hard shadows against the background.
•  If all this sounds way to difficult, go to a professional photographer.

By Colin Crisford – Photographer

29th June 2011

www.colincrisford.co.uk

 Tel: 07956 142077