Secrets to a Great Portrait


Want to know how to take a great portrait? Ask world-renowned fashion photographer, Nigel Barker, and he'll tell you – the best portraits aren't about clothes or a background. They're relaxed, natural and capture the essence of their subject. "A good photographer," says Nigel, "makes it happen by following three rules:
  • Know your subject
  • Create a comfortable environment
  • Keep it simple

"Having your picture taken is intimidating for many people," says Nigel, so it's important to feel comfortable – both with the photographer and the setting in which your photo will be taken. Spend some time talking with your photographer. It will give him or her a chance to get to know you better, and will help you feel more relaxed as well.

Once you're comfortable, you're off to a great start. But before you make an appointment, Nigel has some pointers to help ensure you'll end up with a portrait you'll love.

Dress for Success
Comfortable = confident. So choose an outfit that is flattering and comfortable to wear. Wearing clothes you feel great in will make you feel more relaxed and confident – and confidence makes for a fabulous portrait.

Concerned about color? Well, Nigel favors neutral tones, but if it's your favorite and it's flattering, go ahead and wear it. Just be conscious of your environment – wearing a white blouse against a white background, for instance, isn't the best idea.

Less is More
That goes for makeup and jewelry. Keep jewelry simple so it enhances rather than detracts. A simple chain necklace or pair of diamond studs is always flattering. For makeup, "I personally like light and natural makeup that enhances your features," says Nigel. Just remember: The brighter the lights, the more makeup you will need.

Use the Right Light
The right lighting can make all the difference in a portrait. Avoid overhead lighting, as it can cast shadows over your face and give the appearance of having bags under your eyes. "The best light," says Nigel, "is afternoon light." The sun is softer and has a warmer color, which creates great skin tones. Your photographer can create "afternoon light" in the studio, or you can take your photoshoot outside.

You Don't Have a "Best Side"
What you have is best features, and your photographer knows how to make the most of them. Photographers use light to their – and your – advantage, using it to slim a nose that needs it, or brighten beautiful eyes.

There are two photo secrets that every celebrity and model knows: First, put one foot in front of the other with your front leg slightly bent. It's the most flattering pose for any figure, making your torso and legs appear slimmer. Second, tilt your chin slightly upward and you'll never have to worry about the camera giving you a double chin.

Just remember: "Your best side is your inside," says Nigel, "and that is what we try to capture."

Nigel Barker Nigel Barker is a renowned high fashion photographer, and a suave, expert judge on AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL. (Barker has been a judge on the show for the last 3 years)

Nigel first came on the fashion scene in the mid 1980s when he appeared on The Clothes Show, a televised model search in England. This launched his successful modeling career, which took him all over the world working for fashion giants such as Giorgio Armani, Valentino, Gaultier, Kenzo, Donna Karan and Ralph Lauren.

After a decade in front of the camera, Barker followed his dream to become a photographer and moved to the other side of the lens. In 1996, Barker launched his own photo studio, Studio NB, in Manhattan's fashionable Meat Packing District, where he still works today.

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