5 minute tips for beautiful Isle of Wight portraits

Read what happens at the end of a portrait session here in part 2

There are important elements to look out for when creating natural portraits. For me, everything starts with the light – the summery glow in an evening, fresh spring mornings, and luminous winter afternoons. Rather than head out at mid-day I wait for one hour before sunset, I shoot exclusively at this time.

See three examples of how to use light to enhance each person’s personality.

Use the late evening light add drama and interest

Evening sunshine makes for radiant portraits

Find Unique places in Ryde

Next I aim to find unique places that offer interest colours, texture and contrast. I save favourite locations for years until just the right person comes along. For example, wooded areas suit Boho-styled gals, while urban skate parks will be better for fashionistas.

I’m looking for non-models who’d enjoy working with me in:

• an old fashion, vintage location (think Downton Abbey)
• a derelict setting
• an urban settings (think ASOS)

If this is you, get in touch with this CONTACT FORM.

Park walls close to home

Urban backgrounds to suit a modern outlook

Neglected corners with attitude

Beaches for soft, feminine portraits

Once the location is sorted, matching the wardrobe is next on my check list. I prefer styling colours rather than outfits. Look at the photos below to see what I mean. Ruby red, coral, peach create a fresh spring-like beauty.

See how we matched colours to locations in this session.

Dark colours suit dramatic environments.

Pastel colours suited the soft mustard yellow on the stones.

Soft russet colours blend with the autumnal leaves in the background

Autumnal colours suited the amber glow of the evening sun

Textured lace suits the rough bark (+ exaggerates the smoothness of Lou’s skin)

Isle of  Wight Portraits with depth and dimension

A key feature in these images is the creative use of a very narrow depth of field. This makes my non-models stand out from their surroundings and can only be achieved with a steady hand! I use a monopod. The added benefit is that I can swing the camera away from my face to share a joke and natter away.

Appley Park never looked so good!

A warm and friendly greeting

A typical photo shoot for ‘Amanda Herbert Photography‘ starts with a scout around the area looking for quiet corners that inspire confidence. A warm welcome greets my non-models as nerves jingle and make us breathless with excitement. Confident and reassuring, we jump straight in. This is important as I want to remind you that I am just a girl with a camera (and a friendly one at that).

See what others have said after a portrait session with me:

So, there you go, quick tips to help to plan your own session. I hope these give you the jump start you need to arrange your own portraits session with a professional photographer.

For more advice on natural portrait sessions or to book a natural portrait by an Isle of Wight photographer, get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.

Call me for your session 07898621187

Or share 1 thing you’d like help with via the CONTACT PAGE  below