How to create the perfect background for portrait photography: tips and techniques

16.12.2017

How to create the perfect background for portrait photography: tips and techniques

The background plays a key role in portrait photography: it can emphasize the beauty of the model, add depth to the shot, or, conversely, ruin the entire picture if unwanted elements get into it. Professional photographers know that you shouldn’t leave “extra” space in the frame – it draws attention to minor details. In this article, we’ll look at how to choose the right background, use bokeh, work with exposure and the distance between the model and the background to create expressive and harmonious portraits that captivate the viewer.

How to choose and organize a background for a portrait

If a location doesn’t seem interesting, don’t be too quick to dismiss it – try analyzing it through your camera’s viewfinder. Often, a background that looks boring at first glance can become perfect with the right angle. For example, the sky (blue or cloudy), a green lawn, or autumn leaves can create a natural and aesthetic basis for a portrait. Autumn leaves, especially golden or red ones, add warmth and seasonal atmosphere to the shot, making the more expressive.

Don’t limit yourself to a horizontal view – pay attention to what’s above or below. For example, shooting from the bottom up with the sky as a backdrop can make a portrait more dramatic, while shooting from the top down with a lawn or leaves can make it gentle and natural. Use natural or artificial elevations, such as benches, stairs, or hills, to change the point of view and find an unusual angle. For example, if the model sits on a bench, you can shoot from a higher point, which will open up new possibilities for the background.

It is important that the background is in harmony with the model but not distracting. Avoid bright or chaotic elements, such as advertising signs, trash, or random passersby. If you can’t avoid these elements, change the angle or use the techniques below to blur the background.

Use bokeh to accentuate the model

Bokeh is a background blurring effect that allows you to separate the model from the background and focus the viewer’s attention on her face. To achieve distinct bokeh, use lenses with a wide aperture (e.g. f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8). The wider the aperture, the more the background is blurred. The degree of blurring also depends on the distance between the model, the background, and the camera: the farther the background is from the model, the softer and more pleasing the bokeh will be.

To create bokeh, choose locations with natural elements that blur well, such as tree leaves, city lights at night, or water. For example, shooting against a forest backdrop with soft evening light can create a magical bokeh with rounded light spots. If you’re shooting indoors, place light sources such as garlands or lamps behind your model to create a spectacular blurred background. It’s important not to overdo it – the background should remain recognizable to support the mood of the shot, but not distract.

Working with exposure and backdrop

Proper exposure is the key to a harmonious portrait. One effective technique is to place the model in the shade and leave a brightly lit background, such as a sunny sky or field, behind her. This will create an overexposed background that looks like a soft, light background, and at the same time provide the right exposure for the model. Measure the exposure solely on the model’s face, not on the general scene, as a bright background can “trick” the camera into making the model look too dark .

Remember that the human eye perceives more details and colors than the camera, so always check the image on the screen. If the difference in lighting between the model and the background is insignificant, use a backdrop – a piece of fabric that harmonizes with the image. For example, a plain fabric of a neutral color (gray, beige, or pastel) can be a universal solution. Be creative in choosing a backdrop: it can be clothes, a blanket, or even a curtain. It’s best if the background color emphasizes the model’s features, for example, blue sky or green for blue and green eyes, or wooden textures or sand for brown eyes.

Once considered a mistake, sun glare has become a popular element in portraiture, especially in romantic shots. If you’re shooting against the sun, use the glare as an accent, but don’t make it the central element. For example, a light glare on the model’s hair or shoulder can add magic to the shot, but make sure it doesn’t cover the face.

Distance between the model and the background: how it affects the picture

The distance between the model and the background is one of the simplest but most effective ways to control the shot. If you move the model away from the background, you will get stronger bokeh and softer blur, which is ideal for accentuating the face. For example, if the model is 5-10 meters away from the background, even a lens with an aperture of f/4 will give you a nice blur. If the model is in the shadows and the background remains brightly lit, this will further enhance the contrast and make the portrait more expressive.

If the background itself is interesting and complements the model’s image (for example, historic architecture or a beautiful landscape), bring the model closer to it. In this case, use a light blur to preserve the details of the background but not let them distract you. For example, an aperture of f/2.8 or f/4 will help keep the background recognizable but not too sharp. Experiment with the distance to find a balance between the clarity of the model and the expressiveness of the background.

Creating the perfect background for a portrait is an art that combines technical skills and creativity. Choose a background that is in harmony with the model, use bokeh for emphasis, set the exposure correctly, and play with distance. Even in simple locations, you can find unusual angles or use natural elements to make your photo unique. Experiment, analyze your shots through the viewfinder, and don’t be afraid to try new ideas – this is how you create portraits that will fascinate with their beauty and depth!