Every week, we are bombarded with countless new photography-related products that promise to make us better photographers. For a beginner shooter, this must be overwhelming. If someone asked you for a short list of essential supplies needed for the particular genre of photography you’re into, what would those supplies be?
In the video above, photographer Simone Ferretti details seven items he feels would be most useful to a portrait photographer. His list is well thought out and includes basic items like prime lenses and portable lights. He’s also included a dedicated remote for activating the camera when you’re working alone, although most modern cameras can be paired with a smartphone via a full app. features, I have found a basic remote easier to use when I simply want to trigger the camera’s shutter remotely.
Although Simone’s list consisted of only seven items, I tried to think of what else I could add to make the list more complete. I decided my addition to the list would not take the form of a physical product, but a mindset. To be a good portrait photographer, you must be able to connect with someone regardless of their gender, age, politics, religion, health or interests. The more interesting your life and the more varied ways you use your free time, the easier this will be for you. I don’t like sports, so if my subject says, “did you watch the game last night?” then I won’t be able to join the conversation about that match. But I recall a time a few years ago when I was sent to Madison Square Garden to photograph a performer at halftime during an NBA game and I was killing time by photographing the game. Security forces approached me and escorted me out of the shooting area. They took me to one of the nicest press rooms I’ve ever been in and told me to stay there until the first half started. Their tone and attitude imply that this is punishment for playing the game without proof, but I don’t feel that way because I have my own area and I’m free to eat and drink. . At halftime, they escorted me back to the field to shoot the halftime show. When my topic comes up with last night’s game, I’ll steer the conversation in a direction that allows me to tell that story. I’ll tell her in a way that makes her laugh, which will help build our bond.
The interests I’m into, the books I read, the places I visit, and the people I spend time with are potential connection points between me and the person I’m photographing. Once I find our common ground, I can use this to put the person at ease. If I can then communicate something about my subject to the people who are viewing the photo, then I have created a powerful portrait. Check out the video to better understand portrait photography.
