Posting Twelve

"How to Wow Those Judges – Part Three"

This four part article, which appeared in The Lens Tissue, the newsletter for the Greater Brockton Camera Club, was authored by Jack Alexander, former member of HDP.

Because of their many moods, people are often the most rewarding subjects to capture with your camera. Look for interesting facial features. Since your camera is a severe critic, let me add some dos and don’ts when shooting people:

1.   Tidy up the subject’s hair without overdoing it.

2.   Have you subject stand tall or sit – slumping is a negative.

3.   Turn the torso at a slight angle to the camera so your   subject becomes a slimmer, more flattering photo.

4.   A slight tilt of the head can be pleasing as it softens the skin tones.

5.   Be especially careful of hand placement. When in doubt leave them out of the frame! Take particular care NOT to cut off a limb at the joints!!

6.   Avoid one of the most unflattering areas – the armpit!

7.   Generally, the eyes should be in the upper thirds of your frame.

8.   If your subject is a child, get down to their level. Never shoot down on them!

9.   If a catch light is involved, try to have it fall at either 11:00 or 1:00, if possible.

10.If your subject is wearing glasses, a slight tilt may reduce their reflections.

11. If your subject has prominent ears, have him or her turn until the far ear disappears.

12. Leave more room in the frame toward the front of your subject rather than the back.

13. Working with children, bring along a few toys – great props!

14. Try to shoot your subject at eye level.

15. Since the eyes are the focal points of any picture, focus on them.