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A key element in shooting a portrait is
the care given to the background. Yet so often it is given very little
thought and the finished photograph is spoilt by unwanted distractions.
In some situations, such as in a studio, the background can be altered
at will and could range from a simple plain white or black backdrop to
a more elaborate purpose built set, or even a back screen projection.
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When photographing people in their homes,
at the workplace or outdoors, it is important to use the existing
environment to the best advantage. This may means including the work
the person does – or even a relevant hobby or collection – without
letting the subject become secondary element within the picture.
Positioning plays a key role in creating a background: thought should
be given to where the subject of the portrait is to sit or stand, as
well as the distance and angle of the camera in relation to both the
person and the background. Choice of aperture is another consideration
to be taken into account; a small aperture will produce a greater depth
of filed than a large one, and so more of the background will be in
focus which may well prove distracting.
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