How do you shoot more effective portraits? To coincide with our July photo comp – portraits – we're seeking answers to that question from some of Australia's leading photographers. This week Emma Phillips, winner of Capture magazine's inaugural Emerging Photographer of the Year Award, shares some useful tips on backgrounds.
In portraits, the background is almost as is important as the subject. I try not to think of it as secondary, but the foundation upon which your subject sits.
I ensure that the background is lit carefully and it’s colours, tones and shapes are in keeping with my overall view of the work.
It’s easy to dismiss a background, but sometimes it can be the key element that brings life to your portrait.
I also carefully consider what my depth of field will be when shooting, depending on how much detail in the background I wish to see.
Often, a very shallow depth of field, especially on a close-up portrait, can look really beautiful. Invest in that expensive f1.4 lens you’ve been thinking about!
Emma Phillips
emmaphillips.com.au
Pauline Hanson, by Emma Phillips.
Hamish and Andy, by Emma Phillips.