*For more information visit AdoramaTV YT page, and of course you can keep up with David on Instagram and Twitter @DavidBergman. Find out more at http://www.AskDavidBergman.com
In this 100th episode of our beloved New Yorker David Bergman and his photography series on AdoramaTV called “2-minute Tips” the host decided to do something different.
David shares; “It’s not about a camera setting. a lighting technique, or even gear advice! Instead it’s a reminder on how to make better portraits, by being a human being! First I know we love our toys, and it’s easy to get caught up in all the gear, but it’s important to remember that there’s actually another person on the other side of the lens, and when you’re photographing them they are probably way more nervous than you are!”
“It doesn’t matter if someone’s hired you to take their picture, or if you’re traveling and want to photograph someone on the street. When meeting your subjects for the first time, don’t come in guns blazing with lights and cameras. It’s intimidating, and might make them self-conscious.”
“Instead leave the gear, put away in the beginning. Introduce yourself, smile and look them in the eye. If you’re coming to their house or office, hopefully they’ll invite you in, and you can sit down and have a real conversation. That’ll also give you a chance to look around and figure out where you want to do the photo shoot, then after a few minutes when you’ve had a chance to really connect with them, tell them that you’d like to get your photo gear and get set up.”
“By that time they’ve probably relaxed and should be much more comfortable and ready to have their picture taken! Remember.. at the end of the day photography is half art, and half science! Don’t get so caught up in the equipment and lighting, and forget that we’re all human beings first! Connect with your subject and you’ll see the positive results in your photos!”
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Watch the full episode with David Bergman and Adorama TV: