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Hey there @erambeck! Great topic to bring up!
What sets apart a great portrait photographer from an average one.
Hmm good question, I’m sure you could get a lot of opinions on that! 🙂 I feel like I have to think a little bit more about this one, but my first thought is that a great portrait photographer would have a good understanding of their camera and composition, and know how to utilize that to capture genuine expression well.
Thoughts on this photo, specifically what could I have done better.
What I like about this photo:
• It’s simple – you have a clear subject and a simple background (although, more on that under “what I don’t like” 🙂 )
• The expression of the girl is real; she doesn’t look stiff or uncomfortable
• Unique pose with her looking back over her shoulder
What I don’t like about this photo:
• Distractions in background: cracks in pavement, edge of driveway cuts across her neck
• Not much depth
• Blurry/ Not tack sharp
What I would change:
• Look for a nicer background – something that would be enjoyable to look at
• Watch out for things like hair getting a little messy through the course of a shoot. Take a moment to ask her to fix her hair if it’s become windlown, or straighten clothes out if they’ve become wrinkled, or other things like that.
• I love golden hour (hour after sunrise or hour before sunset), it can add lovely natural lighting to the subject.
Hope that helps a little bit! Let me know if you’d like elaboration on any of that. 🙂
Keep working at it, Ethan! Portrait photography can be incredibly rewarding!