Number 2 is the biggest one to me.. And what I struggle with! My wife is polar opposite of me and I taught her how to shoot as far as technical side now she is way better than me and is one of the more booked photographers in orlando because she excels at number 2. Being social
I would love to hear more on how to approach/initiate a portrait shoot, especially if not on a specific assignment by a client. Do you plan every detail in advance, like the color of a backdrop, the light modifier to use, one light or four light setup, high key, vs. low key, etc.? How much is already in your mind when you arrive in the studio, and what do you decide on the run? And - do you explain or even discuss any of those parts and details with the model? Or is everything completely set, down to the handheld reflector, when the model arrives and she/he has just to take their spot? Have no clue on what should/would be expected in advance and what's good creative improvisation... Maybe an idea for a video? Most other vids start during the shoot, when everything is already chosen - but what's the path to that point?
I love this! Originally, I had a similar idea when I made "The Look". I tested it with one episode and at the time it didn't perform well, but maybe it's time to revisit this and go more in depth as you described. Thanks for the tip!
Not shooting everything wide open is fantastic advice. Photographers need to stop listening to the people that say shooting at smaller apertures make your photos look like snap shots.
Love all of these tips! Especially the last one. Trying something new. I feel like I don’t have much variety in my portraits. I notice that I spend too much time being super close up. Sometimes I like BTS shots from observers on the shoot more than what I got because I get stuck being so close. Learning how to pay attention and taking a step back and do something different/new would help me get more variety. Great video!
I would go with number 4 in all steps in photography. I'm shooting sports, travel and street right now. Next month I'll start shooting portraits and fashion for my university's fashion and design club! I'm still experimenting with lenses, and most importantly post-processing. This used to get me angry and feeling like I'm worst than an amateur. But now I'm very confident and also teaching others in several softwares. Did I mention I will the photo editor for the university's student newspaper 😁
The "try something new" hack is the best for me. Would love to see a video from you about portraiture for older subjects (I'm talking 60-90 years) who are not models. Especially shooting in or near their location: home, yard, garden, city park, etc).
The one about social skills. This video may be the first one I've watched that mentions it. I'm not a professional photographer by any stretch, but I get asked to take photos once in a while (long story). Anyway, one of my biggest issues is that some of the subject stare directly into the camera, so they look like hostages in the picture. I try to say silly things to distract them, but it doesn't work. In fact one woman looked progressively angrier in the photos after I asked her not to look directly into the camera. I'd love to see how pros get non-models to have more natural expressions.
I’m going to do my first headshot for someone’s linkedin this Friday so I’ll remember that less is more when doing it. This whole week I’ve been freaking out about everything I need but maybe I should just do a one light set up with and call it a day.
Definitely think outside the box..... As for knowing what exposure settings to use instinctively I will never forget when I learned the sunny f16 method, it used to be printed on certain film rolls, then I read a book by John Shaw that was detailing how to use it in different situations, I rarely am more than 1/2 stop for nailing it... extra tip if using this technique with digital cameras be prepared to correct it to the sensor, digital cameras manufacturers tend to understate by 1/3-1/2 a stop compared to analog to imply a better performance.
All were my fav, especially the one about committing to one lens only for one month, as well as one light modifier. It DOES make a HUGE difference. Thanks you Sir. Will you be at ShutterFest this year?
I really appreciate the advice that you give in this video. Question, does anyone know what one of the model's was wearing around her neck around 5:05? What is that called exactly?
Social skills is the biggest tip! The more comfortable your model / client feels, the better facial expressions they give you. I’m thankful that I’m actor so I can turn my introvert self off and become this super sociable guy when I’m shooting. I know that makes me sound crazy but all creatives are crazy, right?
Tip 3: I tink as a newby trying to decide whether your going to use primes or zoom lenses, the hype around bokeh is toxic for the decisions you take, bokeh is an awsome effect for portraits but very limiting for someone who is still learning and should be shooting cars, sport, landscapes, and a variety of other items just to find out which one their good at and enjoy shooting more... oh and awesome video
I only chose it for that particular demonstration to ensure that my subject (the action figure) wasn't blown out. If you choose other metering modes you'll get all sorts of readings based on your environment. There's no right or wrong answer on which to use, just have to use the one that works best based on your subject and scene. :)
How is #2 a "hack"? "Be someone who is confident, decisive and knows exactly what they want".... sounds like something to work on in therapy or as a self-improvement practice, as opposed to "change your focal length" or "change your aperture" which are easily accomplished. If it were as simple as "be someone who is confident" I'm guessing most of us would have accomplished that if it were just a "hack".
That's why I said "believe it until you achieve it". It really is more of a mindset issue than anything else. I'm super introverted but when I have my camera I change to the person I need to be to give me the best chance of getting a great photo. If I go into it with my usual vibe, I wouldn't get very far and I suspect many others might be like me too.
Just to be serious for a moment, it's not a habit. It's more of an exercise. I think if you really listened to the video that point should have been apparent.
@@MiguelQuilesJr Miguel..I did listen to it. We differ in what we gleaned from your guessing. You indicate that the more you practice this the better you get at it. Guessing is guessing. It's not accurate and can infuriate experienced commercial clients which is the pool I swim in. We disagree. I am fine with that. I had a friend tell me once that the best system is the one you use all the time. That's yours. Mine is more technical and for me, more accurate as it eliminates guessing. Namaste
Understood. I use a similar method when I'm working with commercial clients too. It's a different ball game. I try my best to learn how to see how my camera sees things so that I'm not reliant on gear that can possibly fail one day.
Guys let’s take Miguel to 1million subscribers. He as really done a lot for us..
Thank you so much sir for everything
Thank you so much for the support! 🙌
man-o-man i am loving your tips!
Tip five was my favorite!
For me it was trying something new each time. Working on that one
Number 2 is the biggest one to me.. And what I struggle with! My wife is polar opposite of me and I taught her how to shoot as far as technical side now she is way better than me and is one of the more booked photographers in orlando because she excels at number 2. Being social
I would love to hear more on how to approach/initiate a portrait shoot, especially if not on a specific assignment by a client. Do you plan every detail in advance, like the color of a backdrop, the light modifier to use, one light or four light setup, high key, vs. low key, etc.? How much is already in your mind when you arrive in the studio, and what do you decide on the run? And - do you explain or even discuss any of those parts and details with the model? Or is everything completely set, down to the handheld reflector, when the model arrives and she/he has just to take their spot? Have no clue on what should/would be expected in advance and what's good creative improvisation... Maybe an idea for a video? Most other vids start during the shoot, when everything is already chosen - but what's the path to that point?
I love this! Originally, I had a similar idea when I made "The Look". I tested it with one episode and at the time it didn't perform well, but maybe it's time to revisit this and go more in depth as you described. Thanks for the tip!
Not shooting everything wide open is fantastic advice. Photographers need to stop listening to the people that say shooting at smaller apertures make your photos look like snap shots.
I run in to the introvert issue constantly.... I'm just not comfortable around people I don't know. You hit the nail on the head with that one!!
One of the best photographer RUclipsrs
No one gonna talk about that sick Akatsuki mask🔥🔥
Love all of these tips! Especially the last one. Trying something new. I feel like I don’t have much variety in my portraits. I notice that I spend too much time being super close up. Sometimes I like BTS shots from observers on the shoot more than what I got because I get stuck being so close. Learning how to pay attention and taking a step back and do something different/new would help me get more variety. Great video!
trrying something new kinda works against me because I can't remember what I did when I want to repeat a look
the social skill was very good tip. I think in portraiter is this the most important skill to have 👍
Thank you, and couldn't agree more! It's one of the hardest things for me and many other people and it certainly holds us back.
I would go with number 4 in all steps in photography. I'm shooting sports, travel and street right now. Next month I'll start shooting portraits and fashion for my university's fashion and design club! I'm still experimenting with lenses, and most importantly post-processing. This used to get me angry and feeling like I'm worst than an amateur. But now I'm very confident and also teaching others in several softwares. Did I mention I will the photo editor for the university's student newspaper 😁
That's amazing, congratulations!! 👏👏
@@MiguelQuilesJr Thank you 😊🙏🏽
Love your videos, I like the idea of just using one lens and one modifier to get your creativity rolling
The "try something new" hack is the best for me. Would love to see a video from you about portraiture for older subjects (I'm talking 60-90 years) who are not models. Especially shooting in or near their location: home, yard, garden, city park, etc).
Love the idea! I'll see what I can put together, sounds like a fun one.
@@MiguelQuilesJr Miguel, I like the fact that you have a photog journal. Well done, ese.
Good stuff, Miguel! Analysis Paralysis spoke volumes to me…I suffer from it.
The one about social skills. This video may be the first one I've watched that mentions it. I'm not a professional photographer by any stretch, but I get asked to take photos once in a while (long story). Anyway, one of my biggest issues is that some of the subject stare directly into the camera, so they look like hostages in the picture. I try to say silly things to distract them, but it doesn't work. In fact one woman looked progressively angrier in the photos after I asked her not to look directly into the camera. I'd love to see how pros get non-models to have more natural expressions.
I’m going to do my first headshot for someone’s linkedin this Friday so I’ll remember that less is more when doing it. This whole week I’ve been freaking out about everything I need but maybe I should just do a one light set up with and call it a day.
Man I’m so glad I found this page! Great information!
Awesome 'soft skills' tips! Fully agree, probably even more important than technical know how, especially in portrait photography!
Take a bokeh break was my favorite. I can’t wait for the next video.
Definitely think outside the box.....
As for knowing what exposure settings to use instinctively I will never forget when I learned the sunny f16 method, it used to be printed on certain film rolls, then I read a book by John Shaw that was detailing how to use it in different situations, I rarely am more than 1/2 stop for nailing it... extra tip if using this technique with digital cameras be prepared to correct it to the sensor, digital cameras manufacturers tend to understate by 1/3-1/2 a stop compared to analog to imply a better performance.
Amazing Miguel as always keep inspiring us 👍 👏
No. 5. Is 🔥
Can't pick any one tip. All of them were so valuable.
My favourite tip is to try something new and different every time
It's the toughest one for me but has been so useful! Glad it resonated with you 📸
Nice to see Manny getting in on the action 😁
With a smartphone no less! 😂
All were my fav, especially the one about committing to one lens only for one month, as well as one light modifier. It DOES make a HUGE difference. Thanks you Sir. Will you be at ShutterFest this year?
Thank you, and yes! I'm teaching 3 classes this year ✌️
@@MiguelQuilesJr Excellent!! see you there.
Absolutely great video! I have shared it with my photography organization.
Thank you! So happy to hear it
Well thought out and presented. Thank you.
Thank you!
Tip 2 hit home!
Absolutely great video
Thank you!
This is awsome !!! 💛💛💛
Thank you!
Bonus tip : have fun
The greatest tip of all!!
I really appreciate the advice that you give in this video. Question, does anyone know what one of the model's was wearing around her neck around 5:05? What is that called exactly?
Thank you! That was made by my makeup artist. She bought paper flowers and glued them onto the model piece by piece. 👍
A incident Lightmeter works everytime for exposures.
I've naturally been playing the exposure game all along haha. I'm rarely more than a stop off
You're that much closer to human light meter status! 👏
Social skills is the biggest tip! The more comfortable your model / client feels, the better facial expressions they give you. I’m thankful that I’m actor so I can turn my introvert self off and become this super sociable guy when I’m shooting. I know that makes me sound crazy but all creatives are crazy, right?
I'm struggling with number 2
Tip 3: I tink as a newby trying to decide whether your going to use primes or zoom lenses, the hype around bokeh is toxic for the decisions you take, bokeh is an awsome effect for portraits but very limiting for someone who is still learning and should be shooting cars, sport, landscapes, and a variety of other items just to find out which one their good at and enjoy shooting more... oh and awesome video
Why should I guess the exposure when I can see it on my Mirrorless?
I talk about that in the video.
Hi，Miguel！Is your video done with a Sony A7M3 and 2470GM? great color
Thank you! The video is BTS footage shot over the years with a variety of cameras, mainly the FS5, FS7II, and A7SIII. :)
Will you be at WPPI? We met 2 years ago at Mandalay Bay right when covid hit. We were talking about Mofongo and skill share.. lol
I remember! Hope you've been doing well. Not doing WPPI this year unfortunately, but I'll be at Shutterfest in April!
Hey Miguel, quick question. Why did you select spot metering mode over the other metering modes?
I only chose it for that particular demonstration to ensure that my subject (the action figure) wasn't blown out. If you choose other metering modes you'll get all sorts of readings based on your environment. There's no right or wrong answer on which to use, just have to use the one that works best based on your subject and scene. :)
@@MiguelQuilesJr ok gotcha !!!
Number 2 is the most important.
It's 80% of any photography type.
I enjoyed the last 4 "hacks". (Why is everything now a "hack"?)
Thanks! 🙌
Gee, if only cameras had some kind of vertical grip.
Looks like "that hit" has taken over meta. Kids. lol
I have too much stuff. 🥴
How is #2 a "hack"? "Be someone who is confident, decisive and knows exactly what they want".... sounds like something to work on in therapy or as a self-improvement practice, as opposed to "change your focal length" or "change your aperture" which are easily accomplished. If it were as simple as "be someone who is confident" I'm guessing most of us would have accomplished that if it were just a "hack".
That's why I said "believe it until you achieve it". It really is more of a mindset issue than anything else. I'm super introverted but when I have my camera I change to the person I need to be to give me the best chance of getting a great photo. If I go into it with my usual vibe, I wouldn't get very far and I suspect many others might be like me too.
Are you the same guy from make art not content?
Nope, different dude :)
Guessing as a habit!? SMDH
Just to be serious for a moment, it's not a habit. It's more of an exercise. I think if you really listened to the video that point should have been apparent.
@@MiguelQuilesJr Miguel..I did listen to it. We differ in what we gleaned from your guessing. You indicate that the more you practice this the better you get at it. Guessing is guessing. It's not accurate and can infuriate experienced commercial clients which is the pool I swim in. We disagree. I am fine with that. I had a friend tell me once that the best system is the one you use all the time. That's yours. Mine is more technical and for me, more accurate as it eliminates guessing. Namaste
Understood. I use a similar method when I'm working with commercial clients too. It's a different ball game. I try my best to learn how to see how my camera sees things so that I'm not reliant on gear that can possibly fail one day.
Guessing as a habit??? SMDH
Yup 👍
@@MiguelQuilesJr Happy this inaccurate method works for you :-)
Sure does!
the link to wetransfer is dead.