Portrait photography looks simple — point the camera at a person and shoot. But capturing a genuinely flattering, compelling portrait involves multiple technical and human skills working together. Here are the fundamentals every beginner needs.
Lens Choice
The 50mm f/1.8 is the best portrait lens for beginners — affordable (around ₹9,000 for Canon), produces beautiful subject separation, and does not distort facial features. A 85mm lens flatters even more but costs significantly more. Avoid wide-angle lenses (below 35mm) for close-up portraits — they distort the nose.
Lighting the Face
Position your subject with a window to one side for natural Rembrandt lighting — a small triangle of light under the eye on the shadow side. This adds depth and dimension. Avoid placing subjects directly under overhead lights, which creates unflattering under-eye shadows.
Background Selection
The background either supports or destroys a portrait. Use a wide aperture (f/1.8–f/2.8) to blur distracting backgrounds. Plain walls, textured brickwork, and natural greenery all work well.
Directing Your Subject
Most people feel awkward in front of a camera. Give clear, simple directions: "Relax your shoulders," "Look slightly above the lens," "Tilt your chin forward and slightly down." Confidence in directing creates confidence in the subject.
All portrait techniques are covered hands-on at CIMT's Photography Master Program in Kochi.