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Help with learning Portrait Photo

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ThRainKing

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Mar 23, 1998, 3:00:00 AM3/23/98
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<<I am new in the photography world and I am looking for some information that
will help me with my portrait photography.>>

Well, yeah, you need to have your technical sh*t together, but that can all be
learned. And you need decent gear (though I have a friend who's a big-time
product shooter... if you live in the US, you've seen his work in ads and
outdoor. He just showed me a portriat he did with a $15 plastic chinese MF
camera. Beautiful shot).

IMHO, what separates the men from da boys are the following:

Creativity: regardless of outdoors, window light, full strobe, fill flash,
etc., adding that something extra that makes a portrait really reach you
emotionally, say something about the subject, etc...

and personality. Whether doing editorial portraits for publication, annual
report/corporate shots, or running a consumer studio, you have to make the
subject feel more than just "at ease"... you need to make them excited and
positive about the shot, get them to open up and relax, etc...

Just some food for thought.

Bill Kenner

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Mar 25, 1998, 3:00:00 AM3/25/98
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I don't know where you live and what's available in the community. I live
in Nashville and I found a course in studio lighting offered at Watkins
Institute. It's taught by a recent arrival in Music City, Lawson Little.
He's a knowledgable photographer and excellent teacher. It's been one of
the most rewarding learning experiences that I've had in photography. So
I'd suggest that you look around at local tech and art schools for courses.

Since you describe yourself as "new in photography world," I should ask how
new? A basic course would be necessary before a more advance one on
lighting would be digestible.

Then there's the old advice about visiting the local art gallery to examine
how the masters used light. That's great but first you need to get the
basics.

Good luck,
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN

> I am new in the photography world and I am looking for some information that

> will help me with my portrait photography. Any leads would be greatly
> appreciated

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