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DPChallenge Forums >> Tips, Tricks, and Q&A >> portrait taking tips
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 12/23/2003 03:58:16 PM · #1
I am going to take some family photos for my friend on Sunday. Anyone got any tips on how to make them as error-free as possible? The biggest problems I can forsee is the lighting (which hopefully will be outside in the shade) and focus. I worry that I will not get everyone's face in focus if the camera picks one autofocus point. So would the answer be to pick a spot kind of in the middle (in a group shot)? What about in a shot that has only 2 or three people in it (small family group)? Any tips would be appreciated. I will be using the Canon 300D.
 12/23/2003 04:34:15 PM · #2
I just did a similair thing with some family members of mine. I found that if you pre-select an area, that has good natural lighting, and a good background it makes everything ten times easier. It's again even easier if this place is inside, that takes away the weather problem (which may or may not be a problem for you, it is for me cause I live in Canada). Secondly, take tons of shots, no matter what, high aperature, low aperature, everything! That way you can make sure you have at least a few good shots! Thirdly, make sure you talk to them when your taking the pictures, let them know when to smile, when not to smile, when to relax, when not to relax, so on. That's the most of what I learnt, the rest is pretty easy goin!

Lee
 12/23/2003 04:49:21 PM · #3
You shouldn't have too much trouble not having everyone in focus in a shot like that. You will be far enough away that the depth of field will be deep enough, even if you choose a large aperture. I don't know what kind of lens you intend to use, but if you are using the kit lens that came with the 300d, you may want to consider shooting it at the longer end (55mm) so you can put a little more distance between you and your subjects. It would probably be a good idea to use your flash as well to fill in any shadowed areas on faces.
12/23/2003 06:13:32 PM · #4
I have lots of outside portraits done in natural lighting. I consider tham candids since they are not in a formal portrait sitting. Most of them are true candids, but some were set up outside shots. Take a look and see if there are any you like. Feel free to email me if you have questions about any of them...

//www.pbase.com/jdanderson/real_world_photography

JD
 12/23/2003 06:59:21 PM · #5
if you are worried about what is in focus the 300d has a DOF checker under the lense unlock button

it will simulate the DOF of the shot ( to be ) snapped at whatever you have the camera set at...

and if you're worried about the autofocus points, you can always focus manually... or choose a specific focal point. check the manual
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