How to keep portraits simple yet classy
There is a temptation to go overboard on portraits. I know I do it all the time, just for the fun of it. But sometimes paring it all back and going for classy, yet simple portraits is its own reward
Keeping things simple
I adore doing totally over the top creative portraits, they are loads of fun. The costumes, the hair and makeup, the props and accessories, the staging, I adore it. But clients don't necessarily want that. Sometimes they just want simple, classy portraits that can be used for business, socials, personal branding and more. It doesn't mean these aren't gorgeous portraits, just simple and allowing your subject to shine. In this studio session I pretty much shot with two lenses Tamron 28-200mm Telephoto zoom lens (yes a zoom lens) and my Sony 85mm f/1.4. I have two cameras so I had a lens on each camera and just switched between the two.
Simple background
I used a simple white seamless paper background. It's easy to install and use and is wrinkle-free, but be careful with heels as it is easily damaged. It gives a lovely crispness to your images and makes your subject stand out. I also have a dark charcoal paper backdrop too (not featured here). Mine are 2.75m wide x 11m long. You can, however, get them in different sizes for your needs.
Set the scene
I used a two-light setup using two Godox Wistro 400 Pro - I Love these as they run on batteries, so there are no cords. I had a 36"octobox as my main light and a 16" beauty dish for my fill light. The added bonus of a white background is it also acts as a reflector. Alternatively, if none of your light hits the backdrop it can become quite dark. I could have also used a separation or rim light but chose not to.
Studio setup
Check your settings
Once you have your scene styled and lights set, it's time to check everything is ready. I am usually doing all this while the client is in hair and makeup. My Godox Wistro 400 Pros were on 32 power, I had my Sony a7Riii on Manual Mode, ISO200, 1/125 seconds and focal length ranged from 32mm to 65mm (that's where a zoom lens comes in handy). Using my Light Meter I confirmed my aperture at f/4.0. I also used my grey card to set my white balance.
Simple wardrobe
This shoot was inspired by Madonna's 1990 Vogue video clip, we went for a black suit, pants, vest and jacket. We also added a little flirty by not wearing a shirt under the jacket. The only jewellery worn was a simple pair of drop diamond earrings and simple black heels.
Simple hair and makeup
My hair and makeup artist Em Marietta did an amazing job with the vintage-styled finger waves, we decided to keep the makeup fairly simple and added a pop of color with a classic red lipstick.
Keep it simple and stylish
Simple props
We also used a black hat and a soft grey ottoman...that's it.
Credits - Model Miss Fairy Floss (Jess) and HMUA Em Marietta
