Portrait Photography: From Snapshots to Great Shots by Erik Valind

Do you enjoy taking photos of people?

Whether in the studio, outdoors or at special events, you want to take the best possible photos of your subjects. We have the perfect book to guide you through the fundamentals of portrait photography, taking you through all the tips and tricks one step at a time. In Portrait Photography: From Snapshots to Great Shots pro photographer Erik Valind will help you capture stunning portraits using both natural and indoor light. He starts off by teaching you the basics of portrait photography like selecting the correct lens for the shot you want to create, which camera setting to use and when, as well as how to compose your shots correctly. You will learn how to connect with your subject as he offers a couple of "go-to" poses that are flattering on your subjects. He also addresses problems that you might encounter using both ambient and studio light as well as how you can benefit from the opportunities given by both lighting options.

What will you learn?

• The fundamentals of taking a great portrait shot like stepping back, zooming in, having your subject in the light and the all-important focus being on the eyes.
• How to evaluate focal length and compression as well as which lens to select for any given shoot.
• How to gain your subjects trust and how to provide helpful direction and feedback to put them to ease but also get the best possible shot.
• To improve the light situation using various tools such as reflectors, modifiers, strobes and umbrellas.
• How to address certain challenges you may encounter when using ambient light like shade and direct sunlight and to redirect that light to improve the quality of your image.
• You will also have the opportunity of going “behind the scenes” in the comfort of your own home, a step-by-step walkthrough of the process of creating the image you want, from start to finish.
• After you have mastered the basics he will take you through a variety of possible shooting setups.

Beautifully illustrated with large, vibrant photos, this book teaches you how to take control of your photography to get the portraits you want every time you pick up your camera.