Developing a Style

[Scatterbrained]

Appreciate the feedback thus far. I guess what I'm really looking for is tips to master a more natural, candid feel to my portraits. Particularly when shooting indoors. I understand the need for supplemental light, but really like to stay away from cookie-cutter portrait sessions offered by every person with a camera on Facebook. Any helpful tips in this regard would be appreciated.

As someone who doesn't do Facebook (or social media in general) I'm going to have to assume that what you're referring to is the "Professional Noob" look that seems to be endemic to sites like Facebook? The shots made with entirely natural light and kit lenses outside, or, for the more advanced, with the pop up flash? Honestly, that's not a hard style to move past with a small amount of time and effort. You want to learn to shoot indoors and make it look good? Pick up a copy of Neal Van Neikerks "On Camera Flash Techniques", because as has been stated, it's all about the light.

 

[chuasam]

Photograph lots. Experiment. Shoot shoot shoot. 3 or 4 sessions a week. Eventually your style will find you.

 

[mcflickr]

@Derrel, appreciate your thoughts. I guess I should add that in add that in addition to the Nikon lenses mentioned, I also have an older Tamron 17-50 2.8, and a Tokina 12-24 4.0. I know not necessarily top notch gear, but hopefully a step above "kit-lens" territory.

Any resources in particular that you leverage? A posing guide you might recommend? I appreciate all of the advice, please keep the recommendations coming!

 

[unpopular]

Focus on the why and less about the what. I disagree with Derrel, style and visual intuition isn't about what gear you have, but how you use it.

My suggestion, get a fast 35, don't worry about zooms until you've figured out how to shoot more intuitively with a normal.

Also, style changes with you. Let it.