Longpoint Realty

Behind The Scenes with Longpoint Realty Photoshoot

I worked with Tank Design capturing over twenty portraits in one day! We first scouted the offices and aimed to find one backdrop for each person. This was a quick run and gun kind of shoot. I was fortunate that all of our great subjects followed my guidance in dress code and general preparation. We led with a strong blue color palette and some genuine smiles.

Below are some helpful tips for capturing portraits in an office settings.

Capturing portraits in an office environment presents unique challenges and opportunities. Here are some tips to help you capture compelling and professional portraits in such a setting:

1. Select the Right Location: Choose an area with good natural light or controlled artificial lighting. A well-lit space can significantly improve the quality of your portraits.
2. Use Natural Light: Whenever possible, utilize natural light to create flattering and soft lighting. Position your subject near a large window or in a well-lit area, and avoid harsh direct sunlight.
3. Control Artificial Lighting: If natural light is insufficient or inconsistent, consider using artificial lighting. Softbox lights or LED panels can help you achieve balanced and even lighting on your subject’s face.
4. Background Consideration: Opt for a background that is not too cluttered or distracting. A clean and simple background will place the focus on your subject. You might also consider using a backdrop to control the background more effectively.
5. Subject’s Pose and Expression: Guide your subject on their pose and expression. In an office setting, a professional and approachable demeanor often works well. Encourage natural smiles and relaxed body language.
6. Framing and Composition: Pay attention to composition. Use the rule of thirds to create visually interesting compositions. Also, consider the use of leading lines or other compositional techniques to add depth to your portraits.
7. Depth of Field: Use a wide aperture (small f-number) to create a shallow depth of field. This will blur the background and make your subject stand out, while also minimizing any potential distractions.
8. Engage with Your Subject: Establish a rapport with your subject to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. This will result in more natural and genuine expressions.
9. Props and Context: Incorporate office-related props or elements that give context to the environment. This can add a unique touch to your portraits and tell a story about the subject’s work.
10. Gear Choice: Use a portrait lens with a focal length around 50mm to 85mm. This range provides a flattering perspective without causing distortion.
11. Camera Settings: Shoot in aperture priority (A or Av mode) for control over depth of field. Use a lower ISO setting to maintain image quality, and set a fast enough shutter speed to avoid motion blur.
12. Post-Processing: Post-processing can enhance your portraits. Adjust the exposure, contrast, and color balance to fine-tune the look. Retouching can also be done to remove minor imperfections.
13. Candid Moments: While posed portraits are great, don’t hesitate to capture candid moments as well. Genuine interactions and expressions can often lead to compelling shots.
14. Multiple Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Shooting from slightly above or below can create interesting visual dynamics.
15. Storytelling: Consider the story you want to convey through the portrait. Is it about the subject’s role in the office, their personality, or their work environment? Tailor your approach accordingly.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Experiment with these tips and adjust them to suit the specific office environment and the individuals you’re photographing. Building your skills and developing your own style will lead to more engaging and memorable portraits.