Portrait Photography: make your model look fabulous

When taking portraits of people some photographers do not take into account the design possibilities that are available. Each model presents different strengths and weaknesses and failing to address those creates stale boring images. Portraits should be a creative collaboration between the model and the photographer, taking into account design aesthetics and the environment.

If your model is athletic and flexible you should incorporate this dynamism into the photo. Use angled lines in the environment to highlight angled poses and features of your model. Use stairs and railings as visual cues to avoid posing your model in a straight line. Bend their knees and stretch their arms to compliment the different lines of the stairs. While the result shouldn't look like modern dance it also shouldn't look like your grandmother posing in front of the fireplace.

If your model is muscular and strong try shooting them from above forcing a three point perspective view. This will make them appear almost super human with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. 

If you are shooting a more traditional pose make sure you don't take the picture at eye level. This distorts the subject and creates a pear shape that is not flattering for anyone. Try moving the camera to waist level or even lower to capture a more centered view of your model. 

Consider using a shallow depth of field for portrait work. This allows you to blur the background and force the viewer's focus toward the model. It is a good idea to take portraits with a telephoto lens for just this reason. The telephoto lens will have a shallower depth of field and it will allow you to remove yourself somewhat from the models immediate environment creating a more comfortable shoot for everyone.