“When you photograph a face, you photograph the soul behind it.” – Jean-Lug Godard
Ritva, our host this week, is an accomplished photographer especially when it comes to taking portraits of people. Her photo challenge is for us to show pictures that capture the essence and personality of our subject. Whether it is of a stranger, a self-portrait, a friend, family member, acquaintance, or portraits of animals and birds. When viewing a portrait, the goal for the viewer is to connect with the person or subject and become interested in wanting to learn their story.
Ritva shares a couple of tips to consider when photographing others. First and probably most important is to remember to focus on the subject’s eyes. The eyes often make the connection between the subject and the person viewing the photo. Very powerful. In animal or bird portraits the eyes often show determination, intent or emotions. This is what helps to tell their story.
Natural light or the lack of it is another important thing to be conscience of when photographing portraits. Try using light and shadows on the subject’s face to capture the viewer’s interest or reveal a particular mood or emotion. Personally, I don’t feel comfortable photographing people unless they are friends or family members. And on the occasion I have photographed a stranger I ask for permission first. Actually, taking portraits of various animals and birds is what I feel more comfortable doing.
Hopefully each of these pictures will reveal itself to you so you’ll want to understand its story. (Doubling clicking enlarges the image for better viewing.)
As suggested by Ritva, I will close by showing a self portrait which was taken many years ago by a news photographer.
Hope you have enjoyed seeing these various types of portraits! Be sure to check out Ritva’s post at Ritva Rillanmaki Photography to learn more about how to take a portrait and also how to enjoy viewing them.
“Portraits are about revealing aspects of an individual.” – Kehinde Wiley
Excellent selections, Sylvia. Your portraits beautifully tell such compelling stories.
Your opening quote is wonderful. I love that photo of the first responder, and that photo of the gentleman just prior to the eagle photo is spectacular. You’ve indeed captured his soul, Sylvia.
Thank you so much, John. I agree, the fireman was heading toward a kitchen fire in a small restaurant and he was not sure what to expect. Fortunately, is was small and they quickly put it out. The eyes and expression on last gentlemen’s face seemed to speak volumes to me. He works at a commercial fishing company on a neighboring island and I have the feeling his life has not been easy. Hope that things are going well for him now.
I love your candid shots, Sylvia.
Many thanks, Sofia, glad you enjoyed these images.
That puppy definitely is the hero of this post, though there are some other great ones too.
Thank you so much, Leanne!
I’m with Anne Sylvia. A wonderful set but that puppy stole the show!
Thanks Tina! That’s a picture of baby Tucker. He’s older now and fell in love with you after our meeting on the beach a couple of weeks ago.😀
Amazing Sylvia! I especially liked your first image of the puppy’s complete love and trust in its owner.
Thank you so much, Anne, his eyes are so expressive…. He was only 10 weeks old when this picture was taken, now he’s two. 😊