Mastering Portrait Photography

Photographic portraits should not be the formal, corporate-style poses of yesteryear, which reveal nothing of the subject's emotion, personality or mood – so believe Sarah Plater and Paul Wilkinson. Theirs is a modern, fresh and vibrant approach that aims to capture a moment in the lifestyle of the person or persons in the picture. This authoritative guide contains clear, concise and jargon-busting text that discusses the essential technical aspects of photography from choosing a camera and equipment to an appreciation of exposure, aperture, metering, shutter speed, depth of field and white balance settings, in addition to how natural light, colour and movement affect a photograph. A guide to posing helps to ensure dynamic and arresting images. Along with advice on setting up a small studio at home, choice of backgrounds and using artificial light, there are hints and tips on pre-shoot preparations such as make-up, hair styling and suitable clothing for the subject of the portrait. Post-production techniques include skin retouching and colour correction, plus a guide to printing options and presentation.

The Authors:  Sarah Plater began experimenting with film photography over 15 years ago, transitioning to digital as it became more affordable. She then spent three years working at a high street photography studio, before leaving to concentrate on natural light portraiture. She has written for several popular photography magazines.

Paul Wilkinson is a multi-award winning portrait and wedding photographer, partner photographer to chef Raymond Blanc's Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, and the Crazy Bear Group. He was voted Master Photographers Association UK Bridal Image of the Year 2014, and UK Lifestyle and Location Portrait Photographer of the Year 2014. His stylish, relaxed and personal images have resulted in him becoming one of the leading photographers in the country.