Happy Portraits in Ryde – Isle of Wight Photography

How to create happy, light-hearted portraits

Decades ago my husband, in a moment of playfulness, showed me his old fishing rod with a net and a few heavyweights. He had a familiar, mischievous look in his eye, so I knew it would be fun.

Well, it wasn’t. Fishing is a long and patient pastime and is a good excuse to get out of the Isle of Wight house. Do I smile when I see the photos I took that day?

Yes. I remember how I was asked to cycle back to Seaview, by myself, to collect the bait that had been left behind!

” Hey Mandy! Thank you sooo much for our lovely afternoon! I really enjoyed it and I´m glad you were my first photographer because you helped me a lot with everything! We did a great job and our photos are simply perfect! I can´t wait to see the rest of them! 🙂

So what is the secret for generating natural smiles during your photo session? I can hardly bring along my fishing rod! [Read more…]

5 words a portrait photographer on the Isle of Wight always uses

The secret to natural smiles

“Amanda made me feel very comfortable i didn’t have no nerves at all i couldn’t have asked for a better photographer.
Amanda did flash cards where she’d say a word e.g *angry* where I’d have to show how that word made me feel which I though was such a good and unique idea, due to it makes me as the model change my expression which make a great photo. ” Isle if Wight, portrait photo shoot

[Read more…]

How to pose hands – Part 2

How to pose hands without making people feel stupid :: Part 2

In order to pose hands gracefully, you’ll need to have a plan. A roadmap to generating natural poses that don’t feel staged. You could start by reading part 1 and use my tried and test methods.

They work. They work with non-models. They work because I’ve trialed, tested, and tweaked them myself. I honestly use these games to perfect the appearance of my clients. JUMP TO PART 1 HERE

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How to pose hands – Teen portrait photographer in Ryde

How to pose hands without making people feel stupid :: Part 1

A lot of the suggestions below will sound a little kookie – there’s no need to labour the imagery, a few choice words will help the session flow naturally without lapsing into comical performances. JUMP TO PART 2 HERE

#1 Along the jawline

It sounds silly I know, but if you show your friend how to hold their hands. It makes things a lot simpler! Gently rest the thumb in the hollow under the chin and glide soft fingers towards the camera. I often joke around to create a genuine smile, try suggesting your pal has a toothache to capture a true smile.

#2 Soft hands

Modern females demand flattering images. The best way to ensure your subject *glows* is to explain what is working for them (& why it works). Soft, layered fingers help the face look thin (a flat hand has the opposite effect). If you are brave, imitate catching a soap bubble carefully in the centre of your palm. This will remind your friend to soften the fingers and remove the threat of a karate chop stance.

#3 Butterfly

Telling a story without words requires trust. Asking your friend to place their hands in trite pose is a leap of faith. Even if you know it will make a killer shot. On the other hand, everyone, including you, has made shadow puppets with their hands when growing up. Quickly remind your friend how to make a fluttering butterfly and rest the hands slightly under the chin. If the hands start to look stiff, suggest they flutter the wings slightly to ensure soft, layered fingers.

Sitting in the shelter at the Ryde Canoe lake

Depth of field renders a park bench beautiful

JUMP TO PART 2 HERE

Want to join in? Check out the helpful posts below:

how to hire a photographer
the definitive guide to your portrait session
my philosophy

I hope you find these tips helpful and that your next natural portrait session in Ryde is a hoot. I’d love to know which tip you think is the most helpful, your thoughts on the blog and all things photographic! I’ll be posting more ideas next week, see you again. Mandy

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.

Request a call back by using the contact form below.

Amanda Herbert | Isle of Wight
Email: [email protected]

The secret of getting the best from your photo sessions

The secret of getting the best from your photo sessions on the Isle of Wight.

I’ve been chatting with strangers – the Lockdown will do that to you!

A few weeks ago, I bought a new book, Penelope, after hearing rave reviews from a new pal I made via Instagram. It’s a story that takes you back to your graduation. Can you still remember the man (or woman) you swooned over for oh so long? The book made me feel reminiscent and thankful that I’ve put my student days behind me. [Read more…]