Creating Stunning Outdoor Portraits

When I first started exploring outdoor portrait photography, I was amazed at how much the natural environment could transform a simple portrait into something truly magical. There’s something about the soft sunlight, the gentle breeze, and the natural backdrop that adds warmth and authenticity to every shot. If you’re eager to capture portraits that feel alive and genuine, you’re in the right place. Let me share some of my favourite outdoor portrait tips that will help you create stunning images, whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills.

Why Outdoor Portraits Are So Special

Outdoor portraits have a unique charm that studio shots sometimes struggle to match. The natural light is often softer and more flattering, especially during the golden hours - just after sunrise or before sunset. Plus, the environment adds layers of texture and colour that can tell a story all on their own.

One of the best things about shooting outdoors is the freedom to experiment. You can play with different backgrounds like lush greenery, urban streets, or even the beach. Each setting brings a different mood and personality to your portraits. And because you’re not confined by walls, you can move around easily to find the perfect angle or light.

If you want to take your outdoor portraits to the next level, it’s important to understand how to work with natural light and your surroundings. This is where some simple outdoor portrait tips come in handy.

Natural light enhances the warmth of outdoor portraits

Essential Outdoor Portrait Tips for Beautiful Shots

Let’s dive into some practical tips that I use every time I shoot outdoors. These will help you get the most out of your session and create portraits that truly stand out.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

The quality of light changes throughout the day. Midday sun can be harsh and create unflattering shadows. Instead, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. This “golden hour” light adds a warm glow and makes skin tones look natural and radiant.

2. Use Reflectors to Bounce Light

If you’re shooting in a shaded area or the light is uneven, a reflector can be a lifesaver. It bounces light back onto your subject’s face, filling in shadows and adding a lovely catchlight in the eyes. You don’t need expensive gear - even a white poster board works well.

3. Pay Attention to Backgrounds

A cluttered or distracting background can take attention away from your subject. Look for simple, clean backgrounds that complement your subject’s outfit and personality. Sometimes, a blurred background (achieved with a wide aperture) is the best way to keep the focus on your subject.

4. Communicate and Connect

Portraits are about capturing personality. Chat with your subject, make them feel comfortable, and encourage natural expressions. Sometimes, the best shots happen when you’re not posing but just sharing a laugh or a quiet moment.

5. Experiment with Angles and Perspectives

Don’t just shoot from eye level. Try getting low or finding a higher vantage point. Changing your angle can add interest and highlight different features of your subject.

These tips are a great starting point, but there’s one compositional rule I always keep in mind that helps me frame my shots beautifully.

What is the rule of 3 in portrait?

The rule of 3 is a simple yet powerful guideline that helps create balanced and engaging portraits. It’s a variation of the classic “rule of thirds” used in photography composition. Instead of dividing your frame into nine equal parts, the rule of 3 focuses on placing your subject or key elements along imaginary lines that split the image into three parts.

Here’s how I apply it:

• Position your subject slightly off-centre, either one-third from the left or right edge of the frame. This creates a natural balance and makes the image more dynamic.

• Use the remaining two-thirds of the frame to include interesting background elements or negative space. This helps tell a story or set a mood.

• When photographing a person, try to align their eyes along the top third line. Eyes are the most expressive part of a portrait, so placing them here draws the viewer’s attention immediately.

  
  

By following the rule of 3, your portraits will feel more natural and visually pleasing without being too symmetrical or static.

Using the rule of 3 to position the subject off-centre

Gear and Settings That Work Best Outdoors

You don’t need the most expensive camera to take great outdoor portraits, but having the right gear and settings can make a big difference.

Camera and Lens

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is ideal. For lenses, I recommend a prime lens with a wide aperture (like f/1.8 or f/2.8). This lets you create a beautiful background blur (bokeh) and keeps your subject sharp.

Settings to Try

• Aperture Priority mode is great for controlling depth of field. Use a wide aperture to blur the background.

• Keep your ISO low (100-400) to avoid grainy images.

• Adjust shutter speed to avoid motion blur, especially if your subject is moving.

• Use spot metering to expose for your subject’s face, ensuring it’s well-lit.

  
  

Additional Tools

• A tripod can help with stability, especially in low light.

• Reflectors and diffusers help manage natural light.

• A remote shutter release is handy if you want to be in the shot yourself.

  
  

Remember, the best gear is the one you feel comfortable using. Practice with what you have and upgrade as you grow.

Bringing Your Vision to Life with Outdoor Portrait Photography

If you want to explore more about outdoor portrait photography, I highly recommend checking out Piotr Lakowski’s work. His approach to capturing authentic moments in natural settings is inspiring. He shows how the right combination of light, location, and connection can create portraits that tell a story.

When you’re planning your shoot, think about the story you want to tell. Is it joyful, contemplative, professional, or playful? Choose locations and poses that reflect that mood. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new ideas. Sometimes the best portraits come from unexpected moments.

Above all, enjoy the process. Outdoor portrait sessions are a chance to connect with your subject and the world around you. When you bring warmth and enthusiasm to your work, it shines through in every image.

Your Next Steps to Stunning Outdoor Portraits

Now that you’ve got some solid outdoor portrait tips, it’s time to put them into practice. Start by scouting a few local spots that inspire you. Plan your shoot around the golden hour and bring along a reflector if you can. Remember to keep your subject relaxed and engaged - that’s where the magic happens.

If you want to deepen your skills, consider joining a workshop or following photographers who specialise in outdoor portraits. Learning from others can open your eyes to new techniques and ideas.

And if you’re in the Bournemouth area, Piotr Lakowski Photography is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to capture their unique story through authentic and stylish portraits. Whether you’re an individual or a professional, investing in quality portraits can boost your confidence and leave you with memories to cherish.

So grab your camera, head outside, and start creating portraits that truly shine. I can’t wait to see what you capture!