Narrative Portraiture: Foundations of Portraiture [repost]

In the Narrative Portraiture series, photographer and teacher Chris Orwig explores the use of elements such as location and natural light to create images that tell stories about their subjects and produce a strong emotional connection. In this first installment, Chris lays the groundwork for the series. The course begins with a discussion of portraiture and the characteristics that make an effective, story-filled portrait. Chris then explains the importance of establishing a connection with a subject and identifying those details that will help tell his or her story. Next, he explores elements such as location, natural lighting, and composition. The course concludes with an exploration of gear: the creative options that various lenses and cameras provide, and techniques for shooting efficiently and unobtrusively.

Topics include:
* The elements of narrative portraiture
* Choosing locations and working with natural light
* Connecting with your subject to better tell a story
* Composition strategies
* Choosing lenses and selecting gear for a shoot
* Camera-handling tips

Welcome 01m 32s

1. Looking at Portraiture 07m 28s
The power of portraits 01m 34s
The elements of effective portraits 03m 58s
What kinds of portraits do you want to take? 01m 56s

2. Stories and Subjects 23m 34s
Connecting with your subject 07m 54s
Working with locations 07m 07s
What makes a portrait narrative? 08m 33s

3. Lighting Considerations 28m 11s
Photo review: Lighting examples 06m 09s
Seeing and working with natural light 07m 47s
Not all light is visible 01m 07s
Seizing golden opportunities 01m 47s
Shooting with window light 01m 26s
Photo review: Working with light 09m 55s

4. Composition Considerations 19m 46s
Photo review: Composition examples 04m 03s
Thinking about composition 02m 19s
Composition and the story 07m 23s
Posing and positioning your subject 02m 32s
Photo review: Composition in print 03m 29s

5. Gear Considerations 19m 51s
Understanding camera bodies 06m 23s
Choosing lenses 05m 18s
Packing the essential gear for a shoot 02m 27s
Camera handling tips 03m 12s
A down-to-earth approach to gear 02m 31s

Conclusion 04m 24s
Further resources 03m 27s
Conclusion 00m 57s