Capturing Mood & Style on Your Next Photoshoot
Capturing the mood and style you envision for your portrait shoot isn't always easy. It does require a clear understanding of your vision, the emotions you want to evoke, and the aesthetic you're aiming for.
Define the Mood
Emotions: What do you want the viewer to feel? What do YOU want to feel during your shoot? Is it joy, nostalgia, romance, mystery, or something else? This will help inform the color palette, lighting, and expressions of the subjects.
Example: A dreamy, ethereal mood might lean towards soft lighting, pastel colors, and light, airy poses. A dramatic, intense mood might use high contrast, dark tones, and bold, confident poses.
Setting: What kind of environment or atmosphere do you want? Is it moody and urban or tranquil and natural? While a nature shoot might be soft and peaceful, a cityscape could have an edgy and energetic feel.
Visual Style
Color Palette: Consider the dominant colors in the shoot. Soft pastel tones for a serene vibe? Bold, vibrant colors for energy and playfulness?
Example: For a vintage look, consider muted tones and for a contemporary style, opt for clean, high-contrast color.
Lighting: The way light interacts with you can set the entire tone of the shoot. Think about whether you want harsh shadows or soft, diffused lighting.
Example: Soft, natural light creates a calming, effortless feel. Hard light creates strong shadows and a dramatic effect, often used in editorial or fashion photography.
Composition: How do you want to be framed during your shoot? Do you want lots of negative space, tight compositions, or dynamic angles? These choices affect how the viewer perceives the mood.
Example: A portrait with a lot of empty space around the subject can create a feeling of isolation, while a more tightly framed image can convey intimacy.
Tips to help you get to your style & mood:
Mood Boards: Collect inspiration images from magazines, Pinterest, Instagram, or other photographers whose work you admire. This helps visually define the style you're aiming for.
Keywords: Create a list of descriptive words that align with the look and feel of your shoot. Words like "minimalist," "vintage," "playful," or "dramatic" can help clarify the tone.
