A complete step-by-step guide to the techniques of positioning and lighting for the portrait photographer. Starting with the basics, the book takes the reader through the numerous techniques that photographers can use to improve the quality of their pictures and create portraits that will minimise problem areas and produce portraits of outstanding quality. 120 colour and b/w photographs.

With techniques for achieving a flawless portrait, this manual shows how to create stunning, professional images in any setting. Tips on how to delicately discuss and evaluate a subject’s appearance and his or her specific concerns combine with examples on how subtle changes in lighting and posing can flatter subjects—by slimming the waist and hips, enhancing the bust, narrowing the nose, reducing a double chin, and concealing baldness—helping portrait photographers sensitively downplay perceived flaws. Also illustrating how the latest in digital imaging technology can fix problems, this up-to-date resource shows how to digitally eliminate acne, whiten teeth, remove braces, and fix unnoticed clothing problems. Techniques for processing RAW files and for optimizing JPEG files for quick, but consistent, shooting are also included. With hundreds of new images, before-and-after sequences, and informative text, this is the ultimate reference for creating beautiful, flattering portraits.

A brief introduction to the basic principles of creating a flattering pose accompanies chapters devoted to 12 acclaimed photographers who present and discuss their favorite, most successful, and most challenging photos. Widely regarded for their flattering, inventive, and cutting-edge posing techniques, these professionals cover why the pose was selected, how it complemented the subject and the scene, and how it works to make the subject look his or her best. The special challenge of group portraits is also covered by many of the contributors. Additional topics of discussion include personalized tips for learning the art of posing, common problems they see in portraits and their solutions, and suggestions and ideas for researching poses.

Shattering the notion that location lighting has to be difficult, inconvenient, or compromised in its quality, this resource provides guidance on how to create unique and personalized images shot in parks, on city streets, at sports arenas, in workplaces, or in a client’s home. With an overview of equipment and a discussion on the essential tools for a shoot, this guide walks photographers through the creation of dozens of location images—from casual headshots to full-length, formally posed portraits. With strategies for meeting lighting challenges found outside of the studio—from evaluating existing light to modifying or supplementing light as needed—this book will help photographers shoot confidently by developing a plan for creating professional-quality location portraits.

Updated with a new focus on digital imaging technologies, the new edition of this guide for photography professionals discusses how to improve lighting, digital capture, and client posturing techniques in the camera room so that less time is spent making computerized corrections in the digital darkroom. Posing and lighting strategies for minimizing perceived faults in the client's appearance, such as under-eye circles, bald spots, and tummy bulges, are provided, along with techniques for gracefully addressing and resolving potential appearance problems without demoralizing the client. Pointers are also given for effectively using Adobe Photoshop for the image problems that remain, including information on digitally removing braces and smoothing stray hairs.

Aiming to help portrait photographers yield pleasing results with a variety of body types, this tutorial evaluates the subject’s appearance and suggests refining poses, providing tips to make sure each subject ends up with a result they like. Using before-and-after photos—and working through every region of the body from the head to the feet—acclaimed professional instructor Jeff Smith demonstrates simple posing adjustments and explains how various poses can conceal problem areas and maximize positive assets. Also covered are common mistakes that photographers make when posing their subjects and how to best match that pose with the setting, coordinating an overall feeling and style that makes every client look outstanding.

Textbook-style photography handbook that covers all aspects of portraiture with images worthy of a coffee table book.