As with most photographers I first got started taking pictures of people, mainly family and friends. As I continued on my picture taking journey I wasn't satisfied with simply taking a quick snapshot of someone, I needed more substance to my images.
Posing was the first step in creating a better shot and is still something I have yet to fully master. I try to make people look comfortable and natural in all my images. If I can get a candid shot so much the better!
The next step was learning the importance of the background in a portrait shot. While not the focus of the shot an improper or distracting background definitely affects the final image. Even when blurred with an extreme "bokeh" effect the background still plays an important part in the final impact of the photo.
While I do use bokeh in a lot of my portraits I prefer to instead place the subject in front of a background that is somewhat visually striking in itself while at the same time not overpowering the subject that is to be the focus. This creates an overall portrait that is memorable and worthy of being framed.
As I began photography on a more than casual basis over 20 years ago I started shooting on film as digital was non-existent at the time. Quite an expensive proposition for someone trying to hone their craft and as every photographer knows you only get better by constant shooting. I still do prefer the look of film, (a holdover from my days as a Director of Photography in the film industry), but finally made the transition to digital about 5 years ago.
Digital has allowed me to advance as a photographer like no other technique, innovation or piece of equipment. It allows me to experiment and shoot, shoot, shoot with no cost whatsoever except time.
If there is one tip I can give to beginner photographers it is learn and understand the value and importance of lighting in your shots. Whether portraiture or any other type of photo, lighting can make the difference between a memorable or forgettable shot.
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