There are many reasons why you may be looking for a portrait photographer in Cardiff.
It could be for business, photographs to give to a loved one, images of yourself or someone close to you that you want to treasure and look back on in years to come, headshots for an actor or musician, up-to-date photographs for a modelling portfolio, photographs to help you land a husband or wife on a dating app (oh yeah, seriously).
The reasons to want a portrait photographer really do go on and on.
Portrait photography is also something that is naturally included in so many different shoots.
By that, I mean portraiture photography isn't just a case of getting someone into a studio, sitting or standing them in front of bright lights and snapping a headshot and calling it a professional portraiture photograph.
This would certainly be classed as portrait photography - I'm not disputing that - but this type of shot is also something that us professional photographers naturally entwine into our wedding photography, photographs for a band, casual family photography shots, an engagement photo shoot, birthday party photography etc.
Finding A Professional Portrait Photographer in Cardiff
To find the perfect portrait photographer for you, the first thing you need to do is decide on the type of portrait shots you want.
If you want a set of very clean & studio based portrait photography shots then of course you need to source a professional photographer who has access to a suitable studio and who is fully clued up on the use of different lighting set-ups.
If you want something in a specific location, then you need a photographer who's willing to shoot outdoors with the skills and expertise to deliver the type of style you want. When it comes to outdoor photography, some photographers will incorporate the use of lighting or reflectors, while others will look to work with as much natural light as possible.
Do you want very posed portrait photographs, or very casual and candid ones?
You will find that certain photographer's work better shooting with specific styles in mind and are fantastic at posing their models, while other photographer's really shine when shooting in a more candid style.
There is no right or wrong way of doing things, it just comes down to the results you'd like to achieve and how well you can connect with your photographer.
Outdoor Portrait Photography
Personally, I prefer to shoot my portrait photography - and 95% of my photography for that matter - using nothing but natural light.
This means I carry out the vast majority of my shoots outdoors, or at least near a natural source of light whenever possible if me & my subject are indoors, such as a large window. I prefer to shoot my portraiture photography with a slight editorial look - a blend of portraiture and fashion, if you will. I like to give my subject the freedom to move at free will so the shoot is conducted in a super relaxed setting, though I'll certainly give gentle guidance or suggestions when it's needed and like to let my subject know when I like something their doing.
Ultimately, it comes down to the type of images you want. Studio shoots give you complete control and the ability to nail any shot at any time. However, on-location shoots provide an opportunity for unique backgrounds, gorgeous natural light and a whole lot of fresh air - unless we're shooting in a city, but hey, that's still a whole lot of coolness.
Are you looking for a portrait photographer in Cardiff or surrounding areas of South Wales? If so, don't hesitate to get in touch so that we can discuss your photographic needs.
