Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Kevin Hayden With the holidays around the corner and school photos back in session, you are probably thinking about portraits. I recently had a photoshoot at Bethesda Tattoo. The artists arranged for some of their clients with finished work to show up and "sit" for portraits. The selection of clients, or "talent," as we refer to them in the biz, was a pure variety of color, size, height, shape. And as I was shooting, I noticed something very unusual. But I blew it off and shot away. When I sat down to go through the images, my earlier observation was completely confirmed. Though each person was different from the next, they all had something in common -- knowing what the camera wants.

Often, when I'm shooting a portrait, I find that the sitter needs a great deal of direction. This is expected as a majority of us are not professional models. However, neither were any of the Bethesda Tattoo clients that sat for me that day. But they all behaved like on-camera pros. Finding this to be quite fascinating, I have been making notes of what I can remember from the session, as well as what I see while I go through the pictures. The goal is to add to my list of tips for taking a great portrait.

Picture Perfect Tips

You are spending money on the photographer, so try using these tips to make it count: 

1. Camera Comfort - Know Your Photographer

Being comfortable in front of the camera is key. There are many reasons why you may not feel that way: there may be others watching; you may not know the photographer that well; you aren't in front of the camera on a regular basis; and, let's not forget, you are being asked to pose or smile for an object that isn't human. Try getting to know your photographer. If you can, meet with them before you hire them. If their personality meshes with yours, the photos will be outstanding. This will take care of the other obstacles in the way of your comfort. The photographer will help you forget there are others in the room and if you continue a conversation with your photographer, you won't even notice that inanimate object snapping away. 

2. Be "Morning Fresh"

The best time to take photos is in the morning: you are, hopefully, well-rested, and you probably just showered, shaved, styled your hair, applied your makeup, donned fresh duds, etc. Not to mention, if the photoshoot is outside, morning light is the best light. But what if your shoot isn't until later in the day? Though you can't control Mother Nature and will her to shine some morning light on an afternoon or evening shoot, you can control if you are "morning fresh." Wait until two or three hours prior to your shoot and then get ready as you would typically do in the morning. Shower, shave, style, make-up, put on a clean outfit and you are good to go! And, if you are someone who knows how to power nap, BONUS! Get in a 30 minute nap before getting ready so you can have that well-rested look about you when you stroll into the studio.

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Tina Pell

3. To Smile or Not To Smile

Being genuine is the key, here! Sometimes just being relaxed and looking at the camera can create a fantastic shot. On the other hand, smiling can take years off of your appearance. If you choose to smile, think of something that actually makes you smile. Don't just go through the hollow motion of making your face contort into an upward crescent. If you choose not to smile, own it! Don't let others make you feel like you have to smile. Just because you are not smiling, doesn't mean you are unhappy. Whether you are smiling or not, just be genuine and those who see your picture may see more of who you are in that very image. But don't frown. Frowning is unattractive on anyone, professional or not. Just do as Frankie say and...relax.

4. Relax...But Don't Slouch

Your mother was right about this one -- don't slouch! You want your body to be relaxed. You don't want to be stiff. But keep those shoulders back. Being mindful about your posture creates an appearance of self-confidence and, as an added benefit, you look more "fit" on camera. They say the camera adds five pounds so shed a few with this tip.

5. You're Not a Robot

Bethesda Tattoo patron and familyTattoo artist is James Hughes I mean, you don't want to be dancing around so much that your photographer can't get a good shot, but stay in motion. Change up your poses. When you review the photos later, you might find a new pose that absolutely works for you and can be your go-to pose for those moments when you aren't prepared and someone says, "let me get your picture!" Additionally, you might even discover your "good side!"

6. Avoid Idle Hands Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Matthew Wojciechowski

If it's true that idle hands are the devil's playground, then help your photographer exercise these demons. Hold them in front of you, behind your back or slip one in your pocket. If you are sitting, fold them on your lap or rest them on your thighs.

Anything but just hanging by your side! And a little tip for the ladies: putting your hands on your hips can sometimes give the appearance of toned arms. Decide on a few different poses for your hands ahead of time and cut down on the stress.

7. Top Down

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Matthew Wojciechowski

Sometimes there is a lot to be gained for taking a great shot by studying "selfies." If you flip through Facebook and Instagram, you will notice some of the best selfies have one thing in common - the top down angle. This is done simply by having the photographer take your photo from a 45 degree angle up from your face. Many think this is to avoid the double chin effect. But for photographers, there is something very intimate about this angle and the request often catches our talent off guard, resulting in an expression that is often genuine.

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: James Hughes

8. Head Down, Look Up 

Opposite of "Top Down" but very effective. Many times when I tell people to do this, they move their head down, then move their head up. Tilt your head down and then gaze up at the camera with your eyes. Great look on almost everyone and, like "Top Down," it works perfectly for headshots! 

9. Try "Unconventional" On For Size

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: James Hughes Who says you have to face the camera? I didn't. In fact, as a photographer, I prefer whatever makes the most unique shots. If all of my talent did the same thing, over and over and over, my portfolio would be snooze-worthy. I say step out of your comfort zone and think out of that photo box!  Try doing something in front of the camera that you have never tried before. The results may surprise you.

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Kevin Hayden

10. Give Me Your Best "You"

Before you roll your eyes at the overused "Be yourself!" suggestion, hear...er...read me out! You don't have to use all of these tips to get the best photo. In fact, if you do, I highly recommend not using them all at the same time, because...weird. However, one tip you should use throughout your shoot is to stay true to who you are. You need to be happy with your photos. Don't blow off the photographer's suggestions and do keep an open mind. But don't let every photo be outside of who you are. Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: James Hughes

After all, a portrait should encompass your personality and tell your story.

Bethesda Tattoo PatronTattoo artist: Steve Labofish