Summer’s here, the days are long, and you might feel cooped up in the studio. Photographer Gavin Hoey is here to show you how to capture stunning portraits outdoors, even in direct sunlight. Buckle up as Gavin takes you on a garden adventure, sharing his four key tips for elevating your location portrait game.
1. Diffuse direct sunlight
Gavin warns against the harshness of the midday sun. It creates unflattering shadows and washes out your subject. His solution is simple – find shade. In the video, Gavin demonstrates using a 5-in-1 reflector to block the sun and create a diffused light source.
But what if you don’t have a reflector, you may ask? Well, in that case, simply move your subject into an open shade for softer, more flattering light.
2. Master background blur
Gavin also dives into depth of field. He explains how a wider aperture creates a shallower depth of field, blurring the background more. He also explores how focal length and subject distance affect blur. Experiment to find the sweet spot for your desired effect.
3. Find mini-locations within your location
Not every location offers a perfect backdrop. This is why you should look for mini-scenes within the bigger picture. Gavin finds a simple bush that provides a clean, green background. Remember to consider your subject’s eye level for a more balanced composition.
4. Embrace dramatic skies
Want to add drama to your portraits? Look up! Gavin demonstrates using a cloudy sky as a backdrop. He adjusts his camera settings (manual mode, faster shutter speed, higher aperture) to capture both the sky and a well-exposed subject. A flash helps illuminate his model Chloe without blowing out the sky.
I’m sure Gavin’s tips will help you get started. But remember that these are just starting points. Experiment and adapt them to your unique style and location, and don’t forget to enjoy the process and have fun!
[Improve Your Location Portraits in JUST 4 Ways! | Take and Make Great Photography with Gavin Hoey | Adorama TV]
