The Human Side of Photography - 4 Tips for Natural Looking Portraits
The following post on The Human Side of Photography is by Natalie Norton from natalienortonphoto.com.
Over the years my camera has become an extension of my arm, relate? Of course you do. Those lucky souls like you and I who discover they have a passion for photography quickly find it to be magically intoxicating in every way. We just can’t get enough.
Well passion and creative vision out the wazoo (pardon my French), even when coupled with perfect light, perfect equipment, and all the experience in the world will amount to very little if you’ve got a subject who just will not cooperate.
When I first started as a professional photographer it was mind baffling to me the way some people responded when I’d point my camera at them. “FOR PETE’S SAKE!” I’d lament to my husband after a shoot. “They were paying me to photograph them, they hired me, it wasn’t as if I ripped them from their houses, tied them to a tree and forced them to say ‘Cheese.’ What am I missing here?!?” Grrr. I would leave shoots like those EXHAUSTED… absolutely ready for a cup of tea and a bubble bath, and TOTALLY dreading uploading the photos… knowing that all I’d ended up with were a bunch of awkward smiles on tight, strained faces.
Then there came a time in my career when I was in desperate need of a head shot… I hate being in front of the camera… I know. I know. Go figure. Does the irony of all this tickle you as much as it does me? I called a friend and fellow photographer to handle the shoot. “OK Nic, short and sweet. We just need ONE good shot.” She pulled that camera out and it was everything I could do not to run screaming down the beach. She may as well have actually ripped me from my house and tied me to a tree. My heart was pounding, my palms were sweating and I could feel all the blood in my body racing to my face. Needless to say we DID NOT get that “ONE good shot.” Alas, the finished product showed just nervous, awkward bubble headed me … with a face as red as a cherry I might add.
Well over the years I’ve finally cracked the code to dealing with people photographically… Thus, The Human Side of Photography. Here’s 4 tips on how I work toward those beautiful, natural, genuine portraits that make our hearts sing, end up framed on our walls, and/or sell like crazy post production.
1. Handle the Hands:
Give your subject something to hold. If their hands are busy it’s generally enough of a cognitive distraction to curb their camera anxiety.
Take this bride for example. She was really struggling being herself in front of my camera during her bridal shoot. So, I handed her her fiance’s guitar and voilà. Beautifully natural in every way! I love this shot.
2. Pull up a Chair:
I carry a stool with me to every shoot… ALWAYS. It has saved me a million times over. When people sit, they will 9 times out of 10 loose the nervous rigidity they have when they’re standing. The situation automatically steps away from the formal air of photographer/photographee and instantly feels more casual.
This momma-to-be insisted incessantly that she was just “not photogenic” (if only I got a nickel for every time someone spit that at me … or maybe a dime for every time I proved them wrong… hmm). Thank Heaven for my trusty stool. Momma loosened right up once seated, and we got something genuine and sweet.
3. The Attraction of Distraction:
Distract your subject. Get them talking about something you know they’re interested in, ask them questions about their family, pets or favorite super heroes if you get desperate. Do whatever you can to pull their attention away from themselves. I find that shifting their attention to me by making fun of myself to be a trick that’s tried and true.
I’ve also been known to suddenly start barking like a dog to inspire spontaneous laughter… quacking like a duck is also a good bet… trust me, once you get a couple of good laughs out of your subject… it’s all a breeze from there. Laughter releases endorphins and thus a general sense of well-being, at least that’s what “they” say… hey, it works for me!
An example of this was an engagement shoot I did a while back. The groom-to-be was completely relaxed and comfortable, but the bride was just NOT quite getting there. To make a bad thing worse, we started out shooting in a marshy field where we were literally swarmed by mosquitoes… I counted 26 on my legs at one point (like actual bugs biting me simultaneously… not just 26 bites … but I digress). She was bitten TERRIBLY and was SO uncomfortable. I could sense her discouragement, so as we walked to the next site (as far away from said swamp field as possible) I told her fiance to give me a couple of seconds of shooting and then just to start tickling her like crazy.
It was so much fun for everyone! We got a fun shot of the tickle-fest, though that wasn’t the end in mind… the goal was to help her feel relaxed and comfortable for the rest of the shoot- and guess what? It worked like a charm. (This tip is especially good when working with children. Get them talking about something they love and it’s like flipping on a light switch to those sweet genuine expressions that only children can give).
4. A Tip from Aretha… R.E.S.P.E.C.T:
Remember that your subjects deserve your respect… whether it’s your own kiddos or you’re on hire. If you’ve got a subject or two or more who are just plain uncomfortable, seek out privacy for the shoot as much as possible. If you’ve got something in your head that you’re working towards and your subject just isn’t diggin’ it… drop it and move on to something else.
Ultimately you want nice pictures AND a nice memory of the shoot as a whole. If your subject feels understood and respected, that’s your first step in breaking them out of that awkward little box and truly capturing their essence. I learned this the hard way… my oldest son (4yrs old) used to head for the hills when he saw me coming camera in hand.
Once I learned to just respect that, and simply leave him alone at times like these… he actually started coming to ME and asking me to shoot him. And here’s the treasured result:
In this shot he said to me, “ok Mom, now I’m going to pretend like I’m sleeping.” Ah, be still my beating heart!
Happy shooting!
Natalie Lives and shoots on the North Shore of Oahu, HI with her wonderful husband and 3 crazy sons. See more of her work and writing at natalienortonphoto.com
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February 7th, 2008 at 2:17 am
Thanks a lot, what a great post, it made me want to go out shooting people straight away! (With my camera obviously!)
February 7th, 2008 at 7:53 am
Finally something practical, clear and totally relevant to me! Thanks! :-)
February 7th, 2008 at 8:00 am
WOW! GREAT tips! Such simple ideas that I would NEVER have thought of otherwise!
February 7th, 2008 at 8:45 am
Another reason to wish I lived in Hawaii! I’d love to have Ms. Link shoot my fiance and I. Brilliant article. I hope we’ll be hearing more from her?
February 7th, 2008 at 9:22 am
This really IS a great post! The reason I prefer taking candid shots is because I don’t have to deal with the “awkward” photos. As a result, I shy aware from opportunities for posed sittings. I’ve never felt I was capable of making people “natural” in poses. I can’t wait to try this! Thank you! By the way, your photography is wonderful.
February 7th, 2008 at 10:28 am
Great steps. Cute little boy.
February 7th, 2008 at 10:36 am
What a great article! Clear, precise and easy to understand. Impressive that you shoot amazing shots and your way of explaining everything was perfect too. Thanks!
February 7th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Loved it. Any tips for travelers, attempting to capture the memories, not just of themselves, but how to turn pescy “we’ve all seen” them tourist shots into National Geographic winners?
February 7th, 2008 at 11:36 am
great tips and rally great portraits. it’s quite a practical guide that every photographer can get some use out of.
thanks!
david
http://www.davidsmeaton.com
February 7th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Your photography is excellent! I think you’ve really refined a talent that you have been blessed with. It’s fulfilling to see this kind of photography. Thanks :)
February 7th, 2008 at 11:59 am
Awesome tips, I never thought about the hands, I love that tip. It definitely makes the photo more interested and one of a kind. Stool, distraction, respect…all so very useful and something I should have thought of. Thanks for the article I found it very helpful. Thanks
February 7th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
“Hell is other people” as Sartre said. These tips should make photographing them a little less hellish. Thanks.
February 7th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Great advice written in a natural voice and WOW–wonderful pictures (straight from the natural voice of your camera)
February 7th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Natalie! What amazing tips! How simple and easy you make it seem to get the perfect picture! Thanks for your insight.
February 7th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
VERY nice! Great article!
February 7th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I am familiar with Natalie Norton’s work, I have seen some of photos that she takes, they are beautiful and very creative. I loved the tips!
February 7th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I’d hate to sound like a broken record but wow! thank you! after hearing things like these it seems like common sense to me which will help next time i’m put in such a situation. Once again, thank you.
February 7th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Natalie you are incredible! Love the simple yet incredible treasures you created! especially that cute mommie to be :-)You are gifted and very generous to share your gift! Thanks Raeann
February 7th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
Wow!
That was great insight, and I love the style of your shots!
thanks for sharing.
Jase
February 7th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
Natalie - Thank you for the extremely helpful post!
February 8th, 2008 at 1:51 am
Great Photography, and top notch pro suggestions on photography! One thing is for sure… If I get married again… Nat’ will be our photographer!!
February 8th, 2008 at 2:11 am
Great tips!! Maybe now I can get some good pictures from the family. Thanks. Keith
February 8th, 2008 at 2:17 am
What a great article. Well presented and very informational. I love that photo of the Mommy to Be - what a great shot!
February 8th, 2008 at 2:36 am
Great article! I always find myself with subjects that are nervous about their picture being taken, I feel sure your tips will help me out!! Beautiful photographs too by the way.
February 8th, 2008 at 2:37 am
Great stuff, write your book, I’ll buy copies for all of my friends.
February 8th, 2008 at 2:52 am
Great tips - I might just try the “distraction” technique next time I’m trying for good shots of my nearest and dearest - your photos are wonderful as well!
February 8th, 2008 at 2:58 am
thank you so much for this article. i learned a lot from it.
February 8th, 2008 at 2:59 am
I was cracking up thinking of someone getting in front of the camera who is so used to being behind it:) What a well written fun article. I loved it and cant wait to hear more!! Wahoooo!!! You are gifted in so many ways. Love the little boy shot…so sweet:)
February 8th, 2008 at 3:02 am
nice article! i liked the “barking like a dog” idea, I’ve also found that anything that breaks them out of the “normality” of a situation works well. a good example is starting a conversation about a controversial topic (depends on the type of people of course) and then let the heat of the discussion get the anxiety out of them.
February 8th, 2008 at 3:09 am
A VERY inspiring and encouraging post. Although most have “heard that one before” it is a well written reminder that is most likely to remind me.
Thanks for the submission!
February 8th, 2008 at 3:22 am
what a great post! the best i’ve read on this subject in a while. thanks!
February 8th, 2008 at 3:43 am
Thanks - great tips!!!
February 8th, 2008 at 4:03 am
very nice tips even for a beginner ! it feels so natural and clear to approach the humans like humans for a photo shot !
Thank you !!
February 8th, 2008 at 4:17 am
Really nice “article” I have a two year old who just does not like me to shoot her, but if I get her involved in something I get some nice shots.
I think I’m going to put the short version of these tips on a card and laminate it.
February 8th, 2008 at 4:43 am
I can see the bites on her arm! (#3)
February 8th, 2008 at 5:03 am
awesome job on the article!! it was so simple, but can definitly make a difference in shooting pictures!! thanks for the tips, seriously! good job!
February 8th, 2008 at 5:24 am
Great tips! Awesome how you captured the bride to be with such a smile, even though she was almost eaten alive by mosquitos (see her forearm for proof) :)
February 8th, 2008 at 6:18 am
Natalie is a brilliant photographer. She shot our family in Hawaii. Absolutely unequalled! It is great to learn from the Master!
February 8th, 2008 at 7:07 am
The barking dog tip really works, especially when shooting pets. It makes them cock their head as if to ask what’s wrong with him.
February 8th, 2008 at 7:28 am
…dat was some amazing tips..people generally tend to forget these while photographing..I’m no exception ;) ..truly ‘The human side of photography’..Cheers!!!..or should i say Cheese!!! :) thanks.
February 8th, 2008 at 7:33 am
Very good advice for me because I love photographing children. All your photos are beautiful, especially the sweet baby.
February 8th, 2008 at 7:51 am
WOW Natalie! What great advise from a beautiful person. I passed your blog onto my kids. Keep up the good work.
February 8th, 2008 at 7:53 am
Now I’m all misty eyed.
That last photo of your little boy is perfect.
Children really are so special and I love photographing mine too.
B&W shots of people are my faves.
Thanks for these bits of advice.
February 8th, 2008 at 8:31 am
Being a photp buff myself with 2 children and over 10,000 photos in my iphoto
collection I find your advise very helpful. Please continue with the tips and make all of our photo lives easier. My children are at the stage where they only pretend smile with a stiff torso. Your tips work wonderfully. XO MPH
February 8th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Good advice from everything. Something to remember.
February 8th, 2008 at 11:53 am
Rare! Very clear and useful insights. Fresh not same old. Also thanks for the elegant examples of your beautiful work. Wish I could afford to fly you to the mainland to shoot (with your camera!) our authors and speakers.
February 8th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
thanks for taking the time to write that! well done and very useful!
February 8th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Wow all! Thanks for all the comments (and visits to my personal blog and emails)! I’m SO glad the post was helpful. Thank you all for the warm welcome!
Aloha and happy shooting!
Nat
February 8th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Thanx for the useful tips. Will surely help while taking photographs of my cute daughter and nephews.
February 8th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Using personal stories is a great way to teach. This article was entertaining as well as informative. And as president of the “not-photogenic club”, I would like to say Thank You! Now I know what to do with myself while the camera is flashing in my face.
February 8th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Brilliant points you’ve made there, thanks Natalie. I like the last shot best. However, there are a bit too much negative space above the head. Just my 2 cents worth. :-)
February 8th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Superb tips, very well written and excellent photographs. Thank you very much. I am going to come back to this time and time again
February 8th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
thanks 4 the tips :)
about the chair yeah i like this way
i always search 4 a chair to take pictures of my friends..
February 8th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
Thanks so much! I’ve been asked to shoot for a friend and her family and having not done a lot in the way of portraits I was worried I’d get it wrong. I feel much more confident now that I’ll get pictures that actually look like my subjects.
February 8th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I’ve put a summary of these in my Outlook Contacts. (I keep a category called “Tips”.) If I don’t note them somewhere, then when I’m in a situation to use them, I’ll be scratching my head thinking I read something really useful about this… when? where? what???? And by then, the moment’s gone. Thanks for the advice, Natalie!
February 9th, 2008 at 12:33 am
Wow. This was a great post. I’m inspired.
Thanks
February 9th, 2008 at 1:24 am
Nice article. Clay Blackmore says that portrait photography is a conversation with a camera in your hand. A simple statement but it expresses the point well.
February 9th, 2008 at 2:04 am
Not only great advice, but well written, fun and entertaining to read. (Excellent photos, too!) Thanks for the great tips.
February 9th, 2008 at 2:54 am
Thank you!!! Very useful tips
February 9th, 2008 at 3:43 am
Clear, concise, honest and funny. Thanks Natalie for your insight and your very helpful hints. As a novice I look forward to applying these ideas to my craft.
February 9th, 2008 at 5:37 am
I hate it when people freeze up and saying “act natural!” always has the opposite effect. : ) Great techniques! I be able to use them this weekend.
February 9th, 2008 at 7:25 am
Great article. I needed some simple things to keep in my while using my digital. I’m excited to try some of them with my two-year old.
February 9th, 2008 at 7:31 am
Wow! What beautiful photos and great tips! Our family recently had some photos taken and it would have been great to have such REAL moments captured!
Great Job!
February 9th, 2008 at 8:22 am
What a grear article for a total novice photographer.
February 9th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
My goodness. What a great article. In a few short minutes I learned an incredible amount. your pictures are so fluid. What about nudes? hee hee you know what I mean….babies
Thank you, again for the great lesson.
February 9th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
My goodness. What a great article. In a few short minutes I learned an incredible amount. Your pictures are so fluid. What about nudes? hee hee you know what I mean….babies
Thank you, again, for the great lesson.
February 9th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
nice tips.thanks
February 9th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
thank you for the tips, i don’t like posing people for shots, i like candid moments, but reading this wet my interest to give it another try.
February 9th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
Nice advice Darren. The distraction tip is very true.
February 10th, 2008 at 1:45 am
Ditto! Thanks for these tips, i especially like the distraction and hands suggestions.
February 10th, 2008 at 5:49 am
Great and useful information in a straight foreward manner from a pro. I appreciate that. I am also REALLY glad most of my subjects are HORSES! You want a horse’s full attention? Wave a carrot at him, position the carrot in different places and angles..You’ll get every expression and facet of personality you can imagine.Too bad humans couldn’t just respond like that using a chocolate bar!
February 10th, 2008 at 6:01 am
Great post just what I was looking for!
February 10th, 2008 at 8:55 am
I respond like that if you wave a chocolater bar in front of my face!
February 10th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
thanks for this! coz what i really want to take photos are of people :)
February 11th, 2008 at 4:32 am
Wonderful tips! Thanks so much.
I attended a photo shoot recently, it was everyone in the office getting some decent portraits done and I can agree about the distraction bit. I was wondering why the photographer (Stu Williamson) was so chatty but then he got me talking and laughing too and before I knew it I was done. The photos turned out way better than I expected. I am now trying to use that technique when shooting my kids.
February 14th, 2008 at 7:17 am
Thank you so very much for sharing your experience. You have inspired my to leave my wild life for a bit and change back to people for another go.
February 14th, 2008 at 10:57 am
What an informative and funny article. And BEAUTIFUL pictures!!!
February 17th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
I love the pictures and well written article. Thank you.
February 21st, 2008 at 5:41 am
this is good info …
enjoyed reading the post … kewl pics as well …
now on to the field to see if i can pull it off …
but may be i’ll leave the stool behind for a while …
you know …
February 27th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Hi, Surely wonderful… i’m very fond of natural photography.
In picture 3 which is an excellant shot, can you please tell how is the background diffused a bit to make the subject much visible and clear !!
i’ll wait for the reply.
Best Regards,
Adil Ansari
From Pakistan.
March 31st, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Fantastic and genuinely insightful piece, and a lovely look at a human nature. Wise words, not only about portraits, but about life with other people in general, in some ways! :)
April 15th, 2008 at 8:29 am
Seems you have set me a nw goal. Next portfolio is going to be portraits..thanks for the advice.
All the best.