Taking quality photographs of people can be one of the most rewarding, but also the most challenging aspects of photography.
Here are five “great people shot” secrets I have found that are easy enough for even the novice photographer to apply.
- One standard line a lot of photographers use is “look into the camera” - but this can result in very rigid-looking photographs if you’re not careful. For a more natural shot, get your subject to look slightly to the left or right of the camera
- If you own an SLR camera, using a longer camera lens lets you take photographs at a more comfortable distance from your subject, as well as helping to blur the background a bit for that nice portrait effect (be sure to use a low numbered aperture like 2.8 or less to really make your subject stand out). Both of these techniques can create photographs with a more natural and relaxing feel to them.
- Getting to know peoples’ personal behaviours before a photography session helps me to discover the most flattering way to photograph them. I take particular note of their mannerisms and movements so I can emphasise their uniqueness when I photograph them.
- I’m really big on giving people a detailed explanation of what to expect at their photography session. This gives people a chance to provide their creative input, and they will feel like they are a part of the entire process, rather than a puppet on a string.
- I have found that establishing a rapport with clients is one of the best ways to get winning photographs. Showing a genuine interest in the person you’re photographing, and perhaps adding a bit of light-hearted humour to conversations helps them relax and create the best images.
Try one or more of these techniques next time you’re taking photographs with family or friends. You might just be surprised and impressed with your results! 
