Whether you’re headed to the big city nearby or across an ocean, shooting on location is a lot of fun, and full of photographic possibilities. These tips will help prepare you to make the most of your camera as you explore.
1. Shoot for HDR Images
As recently as a year ago, shooting for HDR (high dynamic range) images would not have been on the top of my city shooting list—or even on the list. Recently, however, I’ve dived into HDR big time because it’s so cool and so easy, and because city scenes are perfect for HDR.
Since no single pose is perfect for every model, professional or otherwise, each person before your lens should be looked at individually to decide what to highlight and what to hide. That said, there are basic positions and compositional rules that are extremely helpful to have in mind when going into a photo shoot.
When it comes to photographing a “real” person (rather than a professional model) for an environmental portrait, you may want to capture an element that highlights that person’s uniqueness—even if it isn’t necessarily the most flattering part of that person. A famous photograph of Jimmy Durante, for instance, exaggerates his large nose. Artists who draw caricatures take advantage of these elements. Alfred Hitchcock had a distinctive body type best portrayed in profile. Jay Leno’s and Kirk Douglas’ chins also come to mind. Think about the desired end result—what you want to get across—and it will help you decide on the most appropriate pose for your subject.
What does it take to create a really stunning image? There are six basic elements when designing a great image and certain factors that influence composition and make a really great image. If you can understand these and learn to apply them successfully then you’re on your way to top photos.
What does it take to create a really stunning image? There are six basic elements when designing a great image and certain factors that influence composition and make a really great image. If you can understand these and learn to apply them successfully then you’re on your way to top photos.