Assignment 208: Research Methods

My research has been conducted using a variety of methods not limited to but including: websites, photography magazines and publications available through the library.  The aim of the research was to find portraits that were appealing to me and contained some element of my chosen theme, relating to the purpose of my photography as outlined in my statement of intent.  Having found a portrait that achieved this I would look to investigate the methods the photographer used to achieve the results and consider how I could emulate them in my work.

PHOTOGRAPHY ART CAFE Tips - Tutorials - Biographies - Discussions - Reviews

As well as searching out images and understanding what the photographer was trying to achieve and how - my research also spanned into identifying best practice tips and advice through photography magazines.  Magazines offer the opportunity to access archived articles on particular subjects, as demonstrated below, but also feature readers photographs for critic by a panel of photographers.  This can be useful in providing a range of views on the success or failure of a print which you can take into your own photography.

Shoot a gritty indoor portrait

Anonymous, 24 October 2007 14:54

When it comes to shooting portraits you need to match your idea to your subject, so when we had the idea of shooting a high-contrast, moody black & white image we needed to find a model with enough character in their face to suit this type of shot. Once we’d spread the word that we needed likely subjects it took a ...

Using different lenses for portraits

Anonymous, 24 October 2007 14:53

Which lens is best for portrait photography? A short telephoto lens around 70-105mm (or 50-75mm on most digital SLRs) is the classic choice for portraits, and most standard zooms have this at the longer end of the zoom. For digital SLRs with an APS-sized sensor the traditional 50mm lens is a great choice for portraits as they’re reasonably affordable, offer ...