Glyn, I believe this is one of the most important portrait instruction videos I have ever seen. Far beyond the usual lighting techno class videos we are all accustomed to. It's about how to achieve story telling in portraiture. Thank you. Please keep them coming.
Darrell … that is so kind of you to say. Thank you. Yeah although I love the technicals and all the gadgets (I REALLY love gadgets) … I love sitting and chatting with folks before doing their portrait more 😉
Absolutely. Like all photographers I've been drawn in by the endless gear and technical videos, but over time as I've started to earn money from photography, I've learned that connecting with the client and making them comfortable is everything.
Sometimes I am so pleasantly surprised by the quality and experience of some people who go above and beyond my expectations on UA-cam. This comment sums it up for me about this one. Just wonderful.
Came here to say this and totally agree, the most important portraiture video I've seen so far. And you kept it to under 10 minutes, amazing. Had a taste of this experience when photographing a shop owner recently (day one was just talking so day two everyone was comfortable), it takes longer but if you like being with people it's time well spent!
I’m a veteran. My Dad served 1944-63 in US Marines. I really appreciate the respect and awareness you had for the veterans you’ve worked with. They deserve it. Thank you.
It's incredibly refreshing to see a photographer on UA-cam talk about connection, emotion and understanding people to improve your photography rather than the 1000's who try to sell you on getting more gear, specs or buying their preset packs. Your tips are excellent and I'll be using them in my next shoot! Thank you.
Now this is a true photographer who happens to make UA-cam videos, not a UA-camr trying to look like a photographer. What a great useful video. Thanks so much for this
holly cow, 12 years of photography, and this is the very first time i see a photography channel actually talking about this, so pro those tips, the "look through" blew mi mind, so obvious! but never tried before, now, ill follow all these tips, thanks for sharing
If there was a 'heart' button - I would directly bang on it. One like is not enough for this video. Absolutely different angle of photography tips. Good job.
Good tips. The photographer who used to "own" the ToysRUs contract gave me the same tip for photographing children. Essentially, children depend very heavily on seeing our faces for communication. If they can't see your face, it's just a disembodied voice that they have a hard time hearing (it's rather true for adults, too). So that photographer's practice was to put the camera on a tripod and use a remote release to get away from the camera. He'd even sit on the floor just out of lens range and even engage directly with the children. I've adopted that practice with virtually all my portrait work. Like you, I put the camera on a tripod, set up the composition, and get out from behind the camera. I also use a remote shutter release so that instead of waving my hand, I actually move out to where I want the subject to look and say "Look at me" while I continue to engage them. I also show my subjects selected shots during the session. One thing I've done, using Canon's Picture Style Editor, is to create a custom picture style so that the images on the camera or on my laptop already look very much the way I'll style the finished image (Nikon has something similar...Sony, I don't know). I learned this about complimenting people when I show them their pictures during the session: I don't compliment their attributes, I compliment their choices and actions. So I won't say, "You look great," I'll say, "That gesture...that's just right. Let's do more of that."
My grandfather made documentary films his whole life starting in the 1950's. You and him would've gotten along amazingly! When shooting video I've carried many lessons from him. Two of his lessons; 1. In order to document what's real, you have to connect with the person in front of the camera and set them at ease. 2. Always be curious. I came here looking for technical tips and found out I already knew the answer to my question of how to get better portraits. Thank you, Glyn! You rock!!
Every photographer who does portraits should watch this video! I was especially impressed with number two = eye contact. When I did weddings, I used mostly a Hasselblad on a tripod with a cable release. I was able to communicate with my subject(s) and build a repour. I don't think that I could do the same nowadays with my Canon camera glued to my eye.
I came for a technical video of "how to take portraits" but ended up getting a lesson which is far more important. I'm glad I watched this before my very first photoshoot as a novice photographer. If there is anything called "Photography Psychology", that should be taught to everyone of the novice photographers! Thank you for this beautiful great video. The content is beyond what I expected! Greetings from Sri Lanka !
- 00:06 📸 The speaker shares their top 5 tips for guaranteeing great portraits. - 00:34 📷 Early work as a portrait photographer lacked connection, making them just photographs, not portraits. - 01:10 🥋 Example of a photo of a friend, a kickboxing champion, showing the difference connection makes in portraits. - 01:30 🗣 Connection with the subject is crucial for a successful portrait. - 02:02 🚪 Speaker leaves equipment in the car initially to avoid intimidating the subject. - 02:43 👁 Keeping eye contact with the subject helps maintain their comfort and relaxation. - 03:20 🤝 Betaris Box principle: the photographer's attitude affects the subject's attitude and behavior. - 03:41 👀 Some subjects look better looking at the camera, others looking past it; experimenting helps find the best angle. - 04:54 🖥 Showing subjects the photos during the shoot, focusing on lighting rather than complimenting them, helps them relax. - 06:00 🎧 Listening to the subject can provide vital information that can change the approach to the photoshoot. - 07:45 🕰 Summary of tips: slow down, maintain eye contact, experiment with angles, focus on technique rather than subjects, and listen to them. - 08:12 ⭐ Make the subject feel important by talking about their life and interests.
I'm glad to find an intelligent person with a great sense of empathy...it's not something common to see...Thank you very much for your suggestions to portray people!
After 15 years of conducting audio interviews pilots and veterans for print magazine articles, I've started, whenever possible, doing the interviews in person and on video. This video contains the best advice I've seen yet on shooting video interviews and portraits. Thank you.
It’s true. Photographers are like vampires. We can’t just walk into someone’s home. We have to be invited into the home but once they invite you in, you can start dragging photo gear and lights all over the place. This is actually a very professionally done video with a lot of information! Thank you.
So many people speak about the importance of making a connection in portrait photography, but this is the first video I've seen with clear, practical tips on how to do so.
I've watched many videos about portrait photography and most of them focus on the technical aspects of lighting, settings, and posing. However, none of them focus on the most important aspect which is a relaxed and comfortable "subject". Excellent tips!
Wow, you are absolutely amazing. I am a hobby photographer, studying communication and psychology. The way that you are observing and taking small hints in from the communication and gestures the other person (model) is sending, is amazing. You act upon what you know and what you are learing. Amazing work!
Spot on. The human connection in portraits, both in your conversation but the images we capture, is paramount. Thank you for your thoughts and inspirations.
Thanks for the video and great suggestions and reminders. I've done a lot more video interviews than still portraits and I also find that many of the tips cross over. If I'm shooting hand held I would often shoot from my waste or chest level but try not to cover my face with the camera. I also try not to constantly be looking at the screen and instead engaging the person. The same goes for on a tripod but is easier when you don't have to worry about framing and focus.
🤯 BEST video on portraiture I have ever seen. A thousand times thank you. You so insightfully explained the difference between photographs and portraits, and what has been holding back my images.
It is great you took the time to shoot out the front door with, and without the kit, great way to put the viewer in that position. Simple, creative and effective :)
What I love about this video is it also applies to models that are used to photos. I used to model and when people I worked with made effort to create a connection, to be really "there", the result was always amazing. Now, as a photographer, I'll gladly take and apply all these advices. Thank you so much !
This is the best portrait tips video I've seen - and there have been a lot of them. It's not 45 minutes of blather, you reinforce your words with text, and then, at the end, you summarize your points. You have a new fan.
Very interesting indeed. As a headshot photographer I always have my customers sit in a non photo environment and explain that I'd like to have a conversation with them, just like you do. We talk for about 15 minutes before moving to the studio area and it really works for getting that connection you speak of. I definitely need to slow down as I get excited taking the pictures but will try the hand and tripod suggestions for sure. Excellent stuff Glyn!
Talking to the models is soooo important. I once had a shoot with a girl, who I had asked to join on a shoot. The first thing she said when she arrived at the shoot was that she had a very poor self-image. I said we should sit down and talk. We talked for over 1.5 hours, before I took the camera. The shoot went very well, and we got lots of great photos. The day after, she posted on Facebook: I was on my first pro shoot yesterday. I came in with a self-image that was on the floor, but left with a self-image that went to the ceiling. This taught me a lot, and I deliberately use this when I have inexperienced models. Great tips Glyn. Thank you.
Hi Glyn, I really liked your way of explaining things. I am an amateur photographer and a psychologist and I wrote my master thesis about PTSS and it indeed makes a change to feel people listen you. How nice that you took his story and feelings into account. I was not aware that the interaction between the photographer and the person that much mattered or have a such tremendous effect. Thanks a lot for teaching this 😊
Smashing comments and pointers that we apply to life and not just photography. Your connection and eye contact reminded of Yousuf Karsh's portraits. With regards to veterans, my father was a veteran and I learned early on that asking them questions (not just combat action questions) about themselves and listening could lead to some very interesting conversations. I found that you don't need to be a good conversationalist just a good question asker and a better listener. I was in the Canadian Air Force for 27 years and many of my friends and coworkers suffered with PTSD. During our video production for training young officers I learned that they (they were on staff) got easily startled with loud or sudden noises, movement and lighting changes. Video lights with calm and friendly interaction, quiet movie slate and a soft "action" went along way to making them comfortable. So glad to see your work with veterans from all conflicts as they need their story told, even just through a portrait, with kindness, compassion and understanding. If you show a true interest in them and make them feel that they are more than just a photographic subject so that you get your shot and your money, that will go a long way! Thanks again Glyn for sharing your skills and expertise with us! :)
Paul, thank you so much for watching and for such a lovely comment. Working with the Veterans has genuinely been the best thing I’ve ever done in my life; made so many friends and unintentionally it has been so incredibly rewarding.
Wow, actually a very first UA-camr that teaches others and has experience in what he is teaching about. You’re doing great, love your photos. Keep it going
Wow, it’s the first youtube video about photography that makes me want to be the model instead of behind the camera. You make it sound like almost a therapy. Beautiful insightful advice by the way, it changes from the usual technical tips so many channels do.
I only take pictures of people I like. You describe the method of making it happen. I did not think of the tripod+remote, but with an iPhone, it is a piece of cake. A nice one, Glyn, thank you.
Hi Glyn. Very useful indeed. We all still fall too much into the gear trap. Settings, lighting equipment, what camera/lens to use, etc. Yet, in landscape it is more the composition and the story that make or break a winning picture. In portraits it is all about the people being connected with the photographer by feeling at ease and comfortable. Not easy especially when the photographer and the subject meet for the first time. Excellent 5 points. Thank you very much Glyn.
Those were great tips. Approachable and very doable. In fact, your approach to photography reminded me of how Yousef Karsh approached his portraiture. He shot with a cable release bulb and was always visible to his subjects and just chatted with them and took the shot when it felt right. At times he antagonized his subjects (see Winston Churchill) to get an emotional reaction. I really appreciated your video and the rest of your content it helps me teach skills to my high school students. Well done.
so useful! I'm studying a project where I have to take photos of a young girl that never have a photoshoot of herself, and i was searching for some really usefull tip and I think I stumbled in the best video i coul found. Really grateful and you earned a follower from this!
This is brilliant! You’ve explained why I felt awkward shooting strangers I barely know - connection. I didn’t have that with models and it showed. In contrast, the kids that I photographed have deep connections with me as their carer and I’d see it in their eyes, their poses, sometimes even cheeky poses 😂 Thank you for explaining and clarifying ❤
100% earned my sub. This is masterful/elite level thinking. Your perception level and ability to analyze yourself and your interactions with people to find out where you might have gone wrong is a rare trait. You also treat people with dignity and respect. I literally started to get tears in my eyes with how you treated the WW2 veteran and the implications of how an event can haunt a man 80 years later. To say that this video offers a lot is an understatement. I'm going to bookmark it so that I can come back to it from time to time and refresh my own knowledge and understanding. Thanks.
Amazing and didactic video. Loved it. Totally useful. Centering in the person and not the shooter nor the equipment changed my point of view about portraits. Great job. Subscribed!
Dear Glyn, I loved the way you kept your language simple without using too much technical jargon. The last photo of Ernest John Sleep (RIP) was the icing on the cake. Good stuff.
Totally agree with you Glyn. The best portraits are always produced when you truly get to know your subject in detail! Thank you for another wonderful insight into your approach! Truly inspiring!
Mr. Dewis, I really want to let you know that you are a true proffesional. So many "photographers" on UA-cam or Instagram always boosting about how well their pictures look. But you are a true artists and understands that the meaning and stories behind the picture is more important!! I've learned a lot from your video. I'm showing your video to my students!! Thank you so much!! Two Thumbs Up and Subscribed!
This is a really good and important video. I always tell my students' Portraits are not about the equipment but always about the people we photograph. Taking the time to get to know the person and being sensitive to their needs goes sooooo much further than using a shallow depth of field. This video should be required viewing
Hi Glyn, You did a live lecture in the covid period, I remember. Anyway, a brush up on these basics, they are a boon for anyone who wants to be a photographer...more human. Since I follow the 'make me feel important' rule I can be a photographer for ordinary people and that's very important to me. Thank you very much, friend!
Great tips. So wonderful that you spent the time listening to Earnest and caring for his needs. I imagine he was well made up with your visit and the portrait you made.
Glyn you did it again. I've been building up my own style and portfolio in both photography and videography. Your content is the most approach/skill building content on UA-cam for creatives and is proving to be invaluable. Thank you sir
Thanks so much Jeff. John was such a sweet man ... met up with him many times afterwards at events, his home and in Normandy. A truly lovely man. Much missed.
What an excellent portrait tutorial. I struggle with taking portraits, even though I have all of the required kit. I think this approach of putting the subject at ease and making a connection just may be the key. What a great project you did with the war veterans. That must have been a very special project and you did an amazing job. Merry Christmas, Glyn. Take care.
Thanks so much Stephen and yeah the 39-45 Project was quite an experience. It’s still ongoing but not at the pace it was prior to the exhibition and Covid landing in our lives. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Great Tips Glyn. When shooting corporate headshots, I'll sometimes do 80-90 in a day, so that's less than 5 mins a person, so I have my patter ready for each person. Similar to your point 4, I will often say "ah, you've done this before haven't you, you're a natural at it" to which the normal response is a laugh and a genuine real smile. Point 6 should be: Never say smile!
The amount of information in this video is incredible. It would have taken me months or years to learn this. I really appreciate you sharing this information with us.
Dear sir.. I have no clue why I haven't seen any videos from you before, but I have been missing out. I really love the stories you tell and also the way you tell us the stories. Thank you sir. Thank you.
After watch tons of videos about portrait on YT, this so far is one of the best tips on entire web.. You really deserve a like on this and earned one more follower.
No.3 BRILLIANT! I've used Peter Hurley's "head forward/chin down" technique for years, but I've never been able to explain his famous "squinch". Your trick of having them look through your fingers is PERFECT!
Not just "useful". It was "essential". It made me think: every professional photographer will at some point reiterate the old adage that it is the person behind the camera, and not the camera, that counts. Yet 99.9% of all instructional video footage seems to focus (no pun intended) on the gear, how to use it and what to do with it. Finally...finally...here is a tutorial that sticks solely to the attitude and behaviour of the person behind the camera. Brilliant.
Glyn, this is terrific. Now I know why I won't shoot portraits - I've concerns with the soft skills displayed. I'll remain a simple photographer but if asked for a portrait I'll try to remind what you said in this clip, indeed. Go on.
I've been a photographer for 13 years and I've never had someone put it this way. I do some of this but just hearing you explain it so concisely really clicked something in my brain. Thank you :) I'm going to try this at my next photoshoot
This is such useful video. It's all about getting that connection. It's lovely to see someone focus (no pun intended) on the human side instead of talking about lighting patterns and/or gear. I usually do my best work with a camera and a handheld reflector. Keep it simple and connect. Thanks!
The best advice I EVER got on portrait photos. How I wish he has another one on lightning and third - on face structure. I heard somewhere there are subtle changes required depending on face structure - oval, round, skin color, etc.
Not just for portrait shooting but after watching this for people skills. Thank you well put together and will watch again to remind me of MMFI when meeting people.
I love what you’re saying here, so many so called portraits online when looking for inspiration pI’m seeing online are dead and despite having an interesting model/location. It’s the connection and letting someone relax into their normal form and emotion.
I even learned something new after 35 years behind a camera. I 100% agree that connection is HUGE for a successful portrait. Without it, it’s just a snapshot.
I watched billions of UA-cam videos about photography, but this one was probably the most useful I've ever seen. Thanks so much Glyn!
That means A LOT!!! Thank you so much Nick.
Totally agree, Thanks so much amazing vidéo ❤❤❤❤❤
How did you find time to shoot?
What kind of youtube was it?
My thoughts exactly!!❤
Glyn, I believe this is one of the most important portrait instruction videos I have ever seen. Far beyond the usual lighting techno class videos we are all accustomed to. It's about how to achieve story telling in portraiture. Thank you. Please keep them coming.
Darrell … that is so kind of you to say. Thank you. Yeah although I love the technicals and all the gadgets (I REALLY love gadgets) … I love sitting and chatting with folks before doing their portrait more 😉
Agreed
Absolutely. Like all photographers I've been drawn in by the endless gear and technical videos, but over time as I've started to earn money from photography, I've learned that connecting with the client and making them comfortable is everything.
Sometimes I am so pleasantly surprised by the quality and experience of some people who go above and beyond my expectations on UA-cam. This comment sums it up for me about this one. Just wonderful.
Came here to say this and totally agree, the most important portraiture video I've seen so far. And you kept it to under 10 minutes, amazing. Had a taste of this experience when photographing a shop owner recently (day one was just talking so day two everyone was comfortable), it takes longer but if you like being with people it's time well spent!
I’m a veteran. My Dad served 1944-63 in US Marines. I really appreciate the respect and awareness you had for the veterans you’ve worked with. They deserve it. Thank you.
Thank you so much for that
It's incredibly refreshing to see a photographer on UA-cam talk about connection, emotion and understanding people to improve your photography rather than the 1000's who try to sell you on getting more gear, specs or buying their preset packs. Your tips are excellent and I'll be using them in my next shoot! Thank you.
very true. connection is way harder to learn and practice than the technical side of things
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
This is such a beautiful video!
Thank you so much my friend ... really appreciate that 😉
I agree so much
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
I’m not a portrait photographer but this video felt like a master class in less than 10 minutes. Brilliant! Thank you for sharing.
That’s very kind of you to say that Joe … thank you
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
Finally a photographer talks about the person who he is photographing and not about the technical stuff. Thanks a lot !
Thanks so much Jo … glad you like it
Now this is a true photographer who happens to make UA-cam videos, not a UA-camr trying to look like a photographer. What a great useful video. Thanks so much for this
Thank you so much for that
holly cow, 12 years of photography, and this is the very first time i see a photography channel actually talking about this, so pro those tips, the "look through" blew mi mind, so obvious! but never tried before, now, ill follow all these tips, thanks for sharing
That’s great to hear … thanks so much for watching
If there was a 'heart' button - I would directly bang on it. One like is not enough for this video. Absolutely different angle of photography tips. Good job.
Very kind of you to say that ... thank you
Good tips. The photographer who used to "own" the ToysRUs contract gave me the same tip for photographing children. Essentially, children depend very heavily on seeing our faces for communication. If they can't see your face, it's just a disembodied voice that they have a hard time hearing (it's rather true for adults, too). So that photographer's practice was to put the camera on a tripod and use a remote release to get away from the camera. He'd even sit on the floor just out of lens range and even engage directly with the children.
I've adopted that practice with virtually all my portrait work. Like you, I put the camera on a tripod, set up the composition, and get out from behind the camera. I also use a remote shutter release so that instead of waving my hand, I actually move out to where I want the subject to look and say "Look at me" while I continue to engage them.
I also show my subjects selected shots during the session. One thing I've done, using Canon's Picture Style Editor, is to create a custom picture style so that the images on the camera or on my laptop already look very much the way I'll style the finished image (Nikon has something similar...Sony, I don't know).
I learned this about complimenting people when I show them their pictures during the session: I don't compliment their attributes, I compliment their choices and actions. So I won't say, "You look great," I'll say, "That gesture...that's just right. Let's do more of that."
Thanks so much for commenting … and yeah some great insight there 👍
Dudeeee, the photo of John is amazing. Cheers
Thanks so much
My grandfather made documentary films his whole life starting in the 1950's. You and him would've gotten along amazingly! When shooting video I've carried many lessons from him. Two of his lessons;
1. In order to document what's real, you have to connect with the person in front of the camera and set them at ease.
2. Always be curious.
I came here looking for technical tips and found out I already knew the answer to my question of how to get better portraits. Thank you, Glyn! You rock!!
Its nice to finally see portraits of men/boys for a change...
Every photographer who does portraits should watch this video! I was especially impressed with number two = eye contact. When I did weddings, I used mostly a Hasselblad on a tripod with a cable release. I was able to communicate with my subject(s) and build a repour. I don't think that I could do the same nowadays with my Canon camera glued to my eye.
Thank you for that and thank you for watching
I came for a technical video of "how to take portraits" but ended up getting a lesson which is far more important. I'm glad I watched this before my very first photoshoot as a novice photographer. If there is anything called "Photography Psychology", that should be taught to everyone of the novice photographers! Thank you for this beautiful great video. The content is beyond what I expected! Greetings from Sri Lanka !
Made my day reading this! So glad this has been useful..thank you
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
- 00:06 📸 The speaker shares their top 5 tips for guaranteeing great portraits.
- 00:34 📷 Early work as a portrait photographer lacked connection, making them just photographs, not portraits.
- 01:10 🥋 Example of a photo of a friend, a kickboxing champion, showing the difference connection makes in portraits.
- 01:30 🗣 Connection with the subject is crucial for a successful portrait.
- 02:02 🚪 Speaker leaves equipment in the car initially to avoid intimidating the subject.
- 02:43 👁 Keeping eye contact with the subject helps maintain their comfort and relaxation.
- 03:20 🤝 Betaris Box principle: the photographer's attitude affects the subject's attitude and behavior.
- 03:41 👀 Some subjects look better looking at the camera, others looking past it; experimenting helps find the best angle.
- 04:54 🖥 Showing subjects the photos during the shoot, focusing on lighting rather than complimenting them, helps them relax.
- 06:00 🎧 Listening to the subject can provide vital information that can change the approach to the photoshoot.
- 07:45 🕰 Summary of tips: slow down, maintain eye contact, experiment with angles, focus on technique rather than subjects, and listen to them.
- 08:12 ⭐ Make the subject feel important by talking about their life and interests.
I'm glad to find an intelligent person with a great sense of empathy...it's not something common to see...Thank you very much for your suggestions to portray people!
That’s very kind of you to say Alejandro … thank you
It's refreshing to see someone approaching this with compassion.
After 15 years of conducting audio interviews pilots and veterans for print magazine articles, I've started, whenever possible, doing the interviews in person and on video. This video contains the best advice I've seen yet on shooting video interviews and portraits. Thank you.
That’s very kind of you to say that Stephen … thank you so much
You've offered five great pearls to your viewers, Glyn. I'm happy to be one of them.
That's great Pawel ... thank you
It’s true. Photographers are like vampires. We can’t just walk into someone’s home. We have to be invited into the home but once they invite you in, you can start dragging photo gear and lights all over the place.
This is actually a very professionally done video with a lot of information! Thank you.
Thank you so much
So many people speak about the importance of making a connection in portrait photography, but this is the first video I've seen with clear, practical tips on how to do so.
This was arguably the best non technical photography video I've ever seen. Well done sir.
Thanks so much
I've watched many videos about portrait photography and most of them focus on the technical aspects of lighting, settings, and posing. However, none of them focus on the most important aspect which is a relaxed and comfortable "subject". Excellent tips!
Thank you so much. Glad you like it.
Nothing like this experience. This is priceless and absolute spot on.
Thanks so much
Wow, you are absolutely amazing. I am a hobby photographer, studying communication and psychology. The way that you are observing and taking small hints in from the communication and gestures the other person (model) is sending, is amazing. You act upon what you know and what you are learing. Amazing work!
Thank you so much
Spot on. The human connection in portraits, both in your conversation but the images we capture, is paramount. Thank you for your thoughts and inspirations.
Cheers Jason
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
Thanks for the video and great suggestions and reminders. I've done a lot more video interviews than still portraits and I also find that many of the tips cross over. If I'm shooting hand held I would often shoot from my waste or chest level but try not to cover my face with the camera. I also try not to constantly be looking at the screen and instead engaging the person. The same goes for on a tripod but is easier when you don't have to worry about framing and focus.
🤯 BEST video on portraiture I have ever seen. A thousand times thank you. You so insightfully explained the difference between photographs and portraits, and what has been holding back my images.
So good to hear this … thank you
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
It is great you took the time to shoot out the front door with, and without the kit, great way to put the viewer in that position. Simple, creative and effective :)
Thank you
What I love about this video is it also applies to models that are used to photos. I used to model and when people I worked with made effort to create a connection, to be really "there", the result was always amazing. Now, as a photographer, I'll gladly take and apply all these advices. Thank you so much !
This is the best portrait tips video I've seen - and there have been a lot of them. It's not 45 minutes of blather, you reinforce your words with text, and then, at the end, you summarize your points. You have a new fan.
That’s very kind of you … thank you
Very interesting indeed. As a headshot photographer I always have my customers sit in a non photo environment and explain that I'd like to have a conversation with them, just like you do. We talk for about 15 minutes before moving to the studio area and it really works for getting that connection you speak of. I definitely need to slow down as I get excited taking the pictures but will try the hand and tripod suggestions for sure. Excellent stuff Glyn!
Thanks so much for watching and for commenting Mike 👍🏻
Talking to the models is soooo important. I once had a shoot with a girl, who I had asked to join on a shoot. The first thing she said when she arrived at the shoot was that she had a very poor self-image. I said we should sit down and talk. We talked for over 1.5 hours, before I took the camera. The shoot went very well, and we got lots of great photos. The day after, she posted on Facebook: I was on my first pro shoot yesterday. I came in with a self-image that was on the floor, but left with a self-image that went to the ceiling. This taught me a lot, and I deliberately use this when I have inexperienced models. Great tips Glyn. Thank you.
Hi Glyn, I really liked your way of explaining things. I am an amateur photographer and a psychologist and I wrote my master thesis about PTSS and it indeed makes a change to feel people listen you. How nice that you took his story and feelings into account. I was not aware that the interaction between the photographer and the person that much mattered or have a such tremendous effect. Thanks a lot for teaching this 😊
Smashing comments and pointers that we apply to life and not just photography. Your connection and eye contact reminded of Yousuf Karsh's portraits. With regards to veterans, my father was a veteran and I learned early on that asking them questions (not just combat action questions) about themselves and listening could lead to some very interesting conversations. I found that you don't need to be a good conversationalist just a good question asker and a better listener. I was in the Canadian Air Force for 27 years and many of my friends and coworkers suffered with PTSD. During our video production for training young officers I learned that they (they were on staff) got easily startled with loud or sudden noises, movement and lighting changes. Video lights with calm and friendly interaction, quiet movie slate and a soft "action" went along way to making them comfortable. So glad to see your work with veterans from all conflicts as they need their story told, even just through a portrait, with kindness, compassion and understanding. If you show a true interest in them and make them feel that they are more than just a photographic subject so that you get your shot and your money, that will go a long way! Thanks again Glyn for sharing your skills and expertise with us! :)
Paul, thank you so much for watching and for such a lovely comment. Working with the Veterans has genuinely been the best thing I’ve ever done in my life; made so many friends and unintentionally it has been so incredibly rewarding.
Wow, actually a very first UA-camr that teaches others and has experience in what he is teaching about. You’re doing great, love your photos. Keep it going
Thanks so much
Never thought about portrait photography seriously Glyn, but these tips sound golden. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for that Juan
Wow, it’s the first youtube video about photography that makes me want to be the model instead of behind the camera. You make it sound like almost a therapy. Beautiful insightful advice by the way, it changes from the usual technical tips so many channels do.
So good of you to say this … thank you and thanks for watching
I only take pictures of people I like. You describe the method of making it happen. I did not think of the tripod+remote, but with an iPhone, it is a piece of cake. A nice one, Glyn, thank you.
Hi Glyn. Very useful indeed. We all still fall too much into the gear trap. Settings, lighting equipment, what camera/lens to use, etc. Yet, in landscape it is more the composition and the story that make or break a winning picture. In portraits it is all about the people being connected with the photographer by feeling at ease and comfortable. Not easy especially when the photographer and the subject meet for the first time. Excellent 5 points. Thank you very much Glyn.
Thanks so much Serge … really glad you like it
ua-cam.com/users/shortsjXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX
MMFI. Probably some of the best life advice to employ anytime you are talking to someone. I need to use this technique more.
Glad it was useful
Those were great tips. Approachable and very doable. In fact, your approach to photography reminded me of how Yousef Karsh approached his portraiture. He shot with a cable release bulb and was always visible to his subjects and just chatted with them and took the shot when it felt right. At times he antagonized his subjects (see Winston Churchill) to get an emotional reaction. I really appreciated your video and the rest of your content it helps me teach skills to my high school students. Well done.
That’s wonderful to hear Darren … thank you so much
so useful! I'm studying a project where I have to take photos of a young girl that never have a photoshoot of herself, and i was searching for some really usefull tip and I think I stumbled in the best video i coul found. Really grateful and you earned a follower from this!
Wonderful to read this ... thank you
This is brilliant! You’ve explained why I felt awkward shooting strangers I barely know - connection. I didn’t have that with models and it showed. In contrast, the kids that I photographed have deep connections with me as their carer and I’d see it in their eyes, their poses, sometimes even cheeky poses 😂 Thank you for explaining and clarifying ❤
👍🏻👍🏻
100% earned my sub. This is masterful/elite level thinking. Your perception level and ability to analyze yourself and your interactions with people to find out where you might have gone wrong is a rare trait. You also treat people with dignity and respect. I literally started to get tears in my eyes with how you treated the WW2 veteran and the implications of how an event can haunt a man 80 years later. To say that this video offers a lot is an understatement. I'm going to bookmark it so that I can come back to it from time to time and refresh my own knowledge and understanding. Thanks.
Thanks so much
Amazing and didactic video. Loved it. Totally useful. Centering in the person and not the shooter nor the equipment changed my point of view about portraits. Great job. Subscribed!
Thank you so much Osvaldo
Dear Glyn,
I loved the way you kept your language simple without using too much technical jargon. The last photo of Ernest John Sleep (RIP) was the icing on the cake. Good stuff.
Totally agree with you Glyn. The best portraits are always produced when you truly get to know your subject in detail! Thank you for another wonderful insight into your approach! Truly inspiring!
Thank you so much Elizabeth … glad you like it
Mr. Dewis, I really want to let you know that you are a true proffesional. So many "photographers" on UA-cam or Instagram always boosting about how well their pictures look. But you are a true artists and understands that the meaning and stories behind the picture is more important!! I've learned a lot from your video. I'm showing your video to my students!! Thank you so much!! Two Thumbs Up and Subscribed!
Thank you so much for such kind words; so good to hear that you liked the video too ... thank you!
Very useful. Such a good way of presenting something that's much more difficult than the actual photography. Thank you.
Thank you Chad
That final tip hit hard Sir. Awesome tips and you are doing a good work. Congrats
Thank you Nithilan
This is a really good and important video. I always tell my students' Portraits are not about the equipment but always about the people we photograph. Taking the time to get to know the person and being sensitive to their needs goes sooooo much further than using a shallow depth of field. This video should be required viewing
Wonderful that you say that Kevin … thank you
Hi Glyn,
You did a live lecture in the covid period, I remember. Anyway, a brush up on these basics, they are a boon for anyone who wants to be a photographer...more human. Since I follow the 'make me feel important' rule I can be a photographer for ordinary people and that's very important to me.
Thank you very much, friend!
Wonderful video... so, so , so on point! As a portrait photographer who does mostly location shoots this was quite useful and enlightening. Thank you!
That’s great to hear Wayne … thank you
Great tips. So wonderful that you spent the time listening to Earnest and caring for his needs. I imagine he was well made up with your visit and the portrait you made.
It was lovely meeting Ernest and many times afterwards, and becoming friends. A truly lovely man. Much missed.
Great tips Glyn, will definitely be putting them into practice.
Cheers Charlie ... I use these ALL the time so I really hope they help
This is probably the best video I've seen on UA-cam is a long time. Well done and thank you
Very kind ... thank you Marc
Glyn you did it again. I've been building up my own style and portfolio in both photography and videography. Your content is the most approach/skill building content on UA-cam for creatives and is proving to be invaluable. Thank you sir
Thank you so much for commenting Patrick … very kind
Excellent advice. It then becomes an experience, not a job. You hit the nail in the head.
Thank you so much
The section with the WWII veteran and the PTSD hit hard. Well done!
Thanks so much Jeff.
John was such a sweet man ... met up with him many times afterwards at events, his home and in Normandy. A truly lovely man. Much missed.
The psychology of photography is not talked about often. Well done
Thank you
What an excellent portrait tutorial. I struggle with taking portraits, even though I have all of the required kit. I think this approach of putting the subject at ease and making a connection just may be the key. What a great project you did with the war veterans. That must have been a very special project and you did an amazing job. Merry Christmas, Glyn. Take care.
Thanks so much Stephen and yeah the 39-45 Project was quite an experience. It’s still ongoing but not at the pace it was prior to the exhibition and Covid landing in our lives. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Great Tips Glyn. When shooting corporate headshots, I'll sometimes do 80-90 in a day, so that's less than 5 mins a person, so I have my patter ready for each person. Similar to your point 4, I will often say "ah, you've done this before haven't you, you're a natural at it" to which the normal response is a laugh and a genuine real smile. Point 6 should be: Never say smile!
Agree with you about the ‘no smile’ … I tend to find that actually causes one 😀
Something I learned more important than, lighting and settings. this changed the whole perspective of photograph. Thanks a ton for this amazing video.
So good ot hear that ... thank you
The amount of information in this video is incredible. It would have taken me months or years to learn this. I really appreciate you sharing this information with us.
You're more than welcome ... thanks so much for commenting and for watching
@@glyndewis
Thanks to you too.
I had tears in my eyes - amazing, luckily I am doing some similar techniques
Wonderful to read that ... thank you
great suggestion on having them follow your hand around while taking pictures on a release cable
Thanks
That is incredibly kind of you ... thank you
Thanks
Thank you so much ... VERY kind
Dear sir.. I have no clue why I haven't seen any videos from you before, but I have been missing out. I really love the stories you tell and also the way you tell us the stories. Thank you sir. Thank you.
Absolutely amazing the way you draw that inner smile out is fantastic 😀
Thank you Danny
After watch tons of videos about portrait on YT, this so far is one of the best tips on entire web.. You really deserve a like on this and earned one more follower.
Very kind of you! Thanks so much
No.3 BRILLIANT! I've used Peter Hurley's "head forward/chin down" technique for years, but I've never been able to explain his famous "squinch". Your trick of having them look through your fingers is PERFECT!
....and the story of John literally brought me to tears
Very useful info. Much appreciated.
Thank you
Not just "useful". It was "essential". It made me think: every professional photographer will at some point reiterate the old adage that it is the person behind the camera, and not the camera, that counts. Yet 99.9% of all instructional video footage seems to focus (no pun intended) on the gear, how to use it and what to do with it. Finally...finally...here is a tutorial that sticks solely to the attitude and behaviour of the person behind the camera. Brilliant.
Thank you so much for that. Very much appreciated.
Glyn, this is terrific. Now I know why I won't shoot portraits - I've concerns with the soft skills displayed. I'll remain a simple photographer but if asked for a portrait I'll try to remind what you said in this clip, indeed.
Go on.
Thanks
absolutely outstanding tips! fir even those taking cell photos!! thank you!!!!
Thanks Doris
I will definitely try this. Your approach to getting into people’s brains is like nothing I’ve ever seen or heard. Definitely subscribing!
Hope it's useful ... thanks for watching
Yeah, really helpful video! But, It’s hard to be as authenticly and deeply sympathic like you. Thats a gift!
Very kind of you to say Georg but I do tend to disagree a bit … listening everyone can do; not everyone does though.
Brilliant tips! Seems so logical, but is always forgotten when it comes to portraits. Thank you!
Cheers Christoph
I've been a photographer for 13 years and I've never had someone put it this way. I do some of this but just hearing you explain it so concisely really clicked something in my brain. Thank you :) I'm going to try this at my next photoshoot
This is the best advice I’ve ever heard for portrait photographers! Bar none, the best advice.
Thanks so much
This is such useful video. It's all about getting that connection. It's lovely to see someone focus (no pun intended) on the human side instead of talking about lighting patterns and/or gear. I usually do my best work with a camera and a handheld reflector. Keep it simple and connect. Thanks!
great video highlighting the psychology of the customer and the photographer
Thanks
The best advice I EVER got on portrait photos. How I wish he has another one on lightning and third - on face structure. I heard somewhere there are subtle changes required depending on face structure - oval, round, skin color, etc.
Best advice I or anybody with a camera is ever going to get! Thanks 🙏
Thank you so much
Not just for portrait shooting but after watching this for people skills. Thank you well put together and will watch again to remind me of MMFI when meeting people.
I love what you’re saying here, so many so called portraits online when looking for inspiration pI’m seeing online are dead and despite having an interesting model/location. It’s the connection and letting someone relax into their normal form and emotion.
Your a legend. 20 years worth of experience right there
the most precious 9 minutes i spent on youtube for the last few months. thank you.
That's so good to read ... thank you
Thanks very much Glyn, I'm doing my first portrait shots soon; I'll be sure to use these tips!
That's great to hear
Honestly one of the best photography tips vids I've seen on here. Something I can actually take away and use.
Very happy to read this ... thank you
6 minutes in, the BEST tip and BEST experience I ever heard related to portrait shoots at any time on UA-cam
Thanks!
Thank you so much
Has to be the best advice on taking portraits I've ever heard. Thank you👍🏽
Thank you so much Nyam
I even learned something new after 35 years behind a camera. I 100% agree that connection is HUGE for a successful portrait. Without it, it’s just a snapshot.
Thank you so much for that
Mixing empathy, compassion, and the ability to communicate on the fly with this is fantastic, thanks!
Such a beautiful and touching video. John’s portrait came out beautiful and heartwarming. An
amazing story from an amazing photographer.