The Wide Angle Environmental Portrait - Why wide angles work when photographing people

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the use of wide-angle lenses in environmental portrait photography. Typically, portrait photographers favor short telephoto lenses like the 85mm for their flattering compression. However, using a wide-angle lens can add depth and storytelling elements to your images. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how and why to use wide-angle lenses effectively in portrait photography.

Step 1: Understanding Lens Choices

• Recognize the common choice of 85mm lenses in portrait photography.
• Learn that while the 85mm lens offers flattering compression and background blur, wide-angle lenses can tell richer stories by including more context.
• Consider the emotional and narrative impact that a wider field of view can have on your images.

Step 2: Exploring the Storytelling Aspect of Wide Angles

• Wide-angle lenses provide context, allowing viewers to see the environment surrounding the subject, which adds to the narrative.
• When photographing people, include elements of their surroundings to enhance the story.
• Experiment with different angles and positions to see how they affect the relationship between the subject and their environment.

Step 3: Compositional Tips for Wide-Angle Portraits

• Position your subject strategically within the frame. Use the rule of thirds to create balance.
• Incorporate leading lines from the environment to draw attention to your subject.
• Experiment with foreground elements; they can add depth and interest to your images.
• Ensure the background is not overly distracting; use it to complement the subject.

Step 4: Why Wide Angles Work

• Wide-angle lenses can create a sense of intimacy by bringing the viewer closer to the subject while still revealing their surroundings.
• The distortion effect can be utilized creatively to emphasize certain features of the subject or to exaggerate the environment.
• A wide-field perspective encourages viewers to engage with the image on a deeper level, prompting them to explore the scene.

Conclusion

Using wide-angle lenses in portrait photography can transform your images by adding context and storytelling elements. By understanding how to compose your shots effectively and leverage the unique characteristics of wide-angle lenses, you can create compelling portraits that resonate with viewers. Consider practicing these techniques in various environments to enhance your skills further.