Famous fashion photographer Hemant J. Khendilwal writes exclusively for Fotoflock.com. In this column, he shares few interesting tips on how one can make a model relax and pose during a photo shoot.

“I have been doing portrait and fashion photography for more than 10 years, but find portrait photography far more challenging, hence I enjoy it more.”

In portrait photography, the idea is to get under the skin of the person. The most important aspect is to establish a rapport with the sitter. The sitter should feel very comfortable with you and not consider you as a stranger or outsider.

Below are some personal tips provided by Hemant J. Khendilwal that may help to direct and relax the sitter during the shoot. Again, each photographer has his own style and ways of conducting a shoot and you may have to see what works best for you! 

Good communication skills

It helps if the photographer has good communication skills- which means that he/she is a good listener and is attentive and empathetic during the conversations. The photographer’s personality will be embedded in the sitter’s mind. If the photographer is organized, involved and relaxed, the same will be reflected in the sitter’s persona during the shoot.

Building a rapport
In a portrait session, one must communicate with the subject continuously - both verbally and through the use of positive body language.  People in general have not faced professional camera and lights and often get very tense and conscious.  You have to reassure them that they are doing just fine. Talk to them about their favorite activity/book/ sport. This helps to ease the nervousness and the strangeness about a professional shoot.

Change in location
In a photo session, sometimes one location can become boring and monotonous. A change of location can bring new energy into the shoot. Some other tips include playing the music of the sitter’s choice. The right ambience can create wonders!  Also, know what kind of food he/she likes as eating one’s favourite food can be instrumental in creating a happy mood!

Perfect grooming
People feel more confident of themselves, if there is a good make up and hair stylist present during the shoot.  The clothes he/ she wears have to have a decent fit and the style and colour should go with the personality of the sitter. This is an area where the photographer has to use his/her discretion and judgement.

Portrait photography can never be completely defined and explained. It is an experience which happens at a sub-conscious level to a certain extent, in which there is a connection between the photographer and the subject. The secret of creating a timeless portrait is both a knack and an intuitive art.