How Lighting and Composition Elevate Your Portraits

What makes an image captivating? When you’re scrolling through your feed, what makes you pause?

Coming to you from Pat Kay and Julia Trotti, this great video dissects the intricacies of visual communication in photography. Kay and Trotti examine six images, exploring how composition, lighting, and styling come together to create a successful photograph. They start by discussing how images convey emotion and why understanding visual patterns can enhance your sense of good taste. Trotti, known for her technically perfect and emotive portraits, provides a fascinating look at how she approaches her work, particularly when shooting in challenging conditions.

One of the highlights is Trotti’s ability to create compelling portraits even under less-than-ideal circumstances. For instance, she shares a photo taken on an incredibly windy day. Despite the challenging weather, the image captures a light and fun moment, with the wind-swept hair adding a playful element that most photographers might be tempted to edit out. Instead of shying away from these imperfections, Trotti embraces them, demonstrating that sometimes, the most spontaneous shots can be the most impactful.

Another intriguing point is how Trotti uses unconventional settings and lighting to create unique images. In one example, she contrasts a delicate, whimsical outfit against a rough, urban backdrop. This juxtaposition adds depth and intrigue, showing that a well-chosen background can elevate a portrait to something more than just a beautiful image—it becomes a story. The careful consideration of color palettes and how they interact with the setting also plays a crucial role in the overall impact of the photograph.

Trotti’s focus on detail is evident in her use of light and shadow. Whether it’s a backlit scene that softens the model’s features or the strategic use of natural light to highlight specific areas, her work demonstrates a deep understanding of how light can shape an image. This meticulous attention to detail extends to her choice of gear, as seen in her use of vintage lenses, which add a distinctive character to her photos.

The video offers valuable insights into the thought process behind successful portrait photography. It’s not just about technical skill; it’s about how you as a photographer interact with your subject, choose your settings, and use available light to your advantage. Trotti’s images are a masterclass in how to achieve a dreamy, natural look while still maintaining a high level of technical excellence. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kay and Trotti.

If you would like to continue learning about the art of portraiture, be sure to check out our range of tutorials on the subject in the Fstoppers store.