Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Portrait Photography Backgrounds
Choosing the Right Background for Portrait Photography
One of the key elements of a successful portrait photograph is the background. The right background can add context and visual interest to the photo, while the wrong one can be distracting and take away from the subject. Here are some tips for choosing the right background for your portrait photography.
Consider the Setting
The first thing to consider when choosing a background for a portrait is the setting. Is the photo being taken indoors or outdoors? If it's outdoors, is it a natural setting or a man-made one? Each of these scenarios will call for different backgrounds.
For an outdoor portrait in a natural setting, a simple background such as a clear blue sky or a field of green grass can work well. These backgrounds will help to emphasize the subject and keep the focus on them.
For an outdoor portrait in a man-made setting, such as a cityscape or a building, the background can be used to add context and tell a story. For example, a portrait of a business person in front of a skyscraper can convey a sense of success and professionalism.
For indoor portraits, the background can be more varied. A plain white or neutral-colored wall can be a good option, as it will allow the subject to stand out. Alternatively, you can use a colorful or patterned wall to add visual interest to the photo.
Consider the Mood
Another important factor to consider when choosing a background is the mood of the photo. The background can help to set the tone and create a certain feeling.
For a happy and cheerful photo, a bright and colorful background can be a good choice. This could be a field of flowers, a brightly-colored wall, or a playful pattern.
For a more serious and moody photo, a darker and more subdued background can be effective. This could be a moody sky, a dark wall, or a dimly-lit room.
Consider the Composition
In addition to the setting and the mood, the composition of the photo should also be considered when choosing a background. The background should complement the subject and not distract from them.
One way to do this is to use a background that is out of focus. This can be achieved by using a shallow depth of field, where the subject is in focus and the background is blurry. This can help to draw the viewer's attention to the subject and keep the background from competing for attention.
Another option is to use a background that has a similar color to the subject. For example, if the subject is wearing a green shirt, a green background can help to blend them into the photo and create a cohesive image.
Consider the Lighting
Finally, the lighting of the background should also be considered. The lighting can affect the mood and tone of the photo, as well as the visibility of the background.
For a well-lit background, the photo will have a brighter and more cheerful feel. This can be a good choice for outdoor photos or photos taken in a well-lit room.
For a dimly-lit background, the photo will have a moodier and more atmospheric feel. This can be a good choice for indoor photos or photos taken at night.
In conclusion, choosing the right background for a portrait photo is an important part of creating a successful image. By considering the setting, the mood, the composition, and the lighting, you can choose a background that complements the subject and adds to the overall impact of the photo.