Although portrait photography may seem rather simple, it can be one of the most challenging types of photography. It can take years of practice to be able to capture the true expressions and personalities of your subjects. However, with a few important tips you can start taking portraits that you and your subject will be sure to enjoy without having to buy a lot of fancy equipment.

Go for Candid

There is no shortage of photographs that feature a smiling subject looking directly down the lens. Photographs like this are nice but they don't let your subject express their true personality. Taking candid photos is the art of taking your subject's picture when they aren't paying attention. This method is becoming very popular at weddings and special events, and will give your portraiture stunning honesty. What's more interesting - a photograph of a mother staring at a camera, or one of her singing a song to her child

Hide Your Subject?

Another effective portrait technique is to partially cover up your subject for a more mysterious look. This technique will let you draw attention to certain features like eyes, mouth or hands while leaving a sense of curiosity with what's being hidden. Additionally, this is a great opportunity to play with color. Try giving your subject a brightly colored scarf and see how one prop can open up a world of creativity.

Go Somewhere Else

Instead of taking those boring "sitting in a chair" or "looking out the window" portraits we've all seen before, bring your subject into strange and fun environments and work with them to use what's around you. A great example here would be engagement photographs that feature the couple engaging in a fun activity together, like sitting on a playground see-saw. Think outside of the box at every opportunity.

Use Light to Your Advantage

If you're trying to make your subject look natural, then even lighting is the best type of lighting to use for portraiture. However, this in no way means there is no other way to light a subject. Try playing with darkness and only lighting part of your subject, or casting shadow patterns over them. Things like this can make a big difference in creating wonderful portraits and you can usually take them just by using some ingenuity and a few desk lamps.

Capture Their Personality

Have a conversation with your subject before you shoot and try to get a bearing on "who" they are and what they're interested in. If you know a little about your subjects, this can help you create a portrait that better reflects your subject's real personality and can help put your subject at ease. By knowing what your subject likes or enjoys, try using related types of props and incorporate them into your photo shoot.

Your first responsibility in portraiture is to always create photographs that show "who" a person is as well as what they look like. Taking portraits can be tricky initially, but by using these tips you'll be well on your way towards taking better portraits that your subjects will love. And don't forget to always clearly understand the expectations for the photo shoot so both you and your subject will be happy with the final images. If you take portraits and try to keep it fun and creative you'll always turn out with some good shots.