(Photos by Greg Swales, LFAS grad)
Shane Oosterhoff
Take a series of photographs of someone you know to show off many sides of them. The background is as significant as the subject and should be well planned. Compose 5 different portraits in surroundings that describe the person in the photo. Try 5 different shots of each scenario: Close-up, Medium, Long Shot, and two Different Angles. Also consider your expressions, costumes, props and lighting.
Plan it out in advance. Find 5 + images of people in interesting backgrounds with natural lighting. Find examples of close-up, medium and long shots.
Photograph the series. Find backgrounds that will be descriptive of your person. Make sure you take at least five different photos of each set-up so that you can have a selection to choose from. The more pictures you take, the better chance for successful compositions. Be as clear as possible with your idea so that you can clearly communicate to your subjects.
Evaluation-
Find 5+ examples of portraits photographed with natural lighting post to your blog.
Develop your BW film and print a contact sheet and select your favourite.
Enlarge three 3.5 x 5 prints of your portraits using an elarger in the darkroom. Make sure each image is technically sound: is in focus, has good exposure, and contrast.
