As the Director of Education for Skylum, I am fortunate to have access to an abundance of resources that allow me to discover extraordinary talent. This includes an actor or two.
This advantage led me to the exceptional duo of Amanda Lusant, a renowned Brazilian fashion model and esteemed posing instructor, along with her husband, the gifted actor Daniel Satti. Their expertise and insights have been truly enriching, and I am thrilled to share their valuable knowledge with you.
As a photographer, evoking genuine emotions in your subjects is pivotal in capturing captivating and unforgettable images. Drawing inspiration from actors like Daniel Satti, who excel in conveying emotions and weaving stories through their performances, can offer valuable insights into this process.
Here are five tips Daniel suggested to help photographers create emotion in their subjects.
1. Every photo has a story; put yourself in itÂ
First, to create emotion in your subject, understand what story you’re trying to tell with the photo. Then, put yourself in the story and feel the emotions that the subject is experiencing. Doing this can create a more authentic and relatable image that captures the moment’s essence.
2. Imitate your favorite actor and act like them
Actors often use techniques such as method acting to immerse themselves in a role and bring out the desired emotions. Similarly, as a photographer, you can channel your favorite actor’s energy and emotions to create a compelling photo. Using their techniques, you can create a more authentic and natural-looking photo that captures the desired emotions.
3. Relax and feel the moment
Creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for your subject can be challenging when you’re tense or nervous. Instead, take a deep breath and relax before you start shooting. Feeling the moment and being present can create a more relaxed and comfortable environment for your subject to express their emotions.
4. Don’t worry about people watching
Photographing a subject can be a vulnerable experience, and creating a safe and comfortable environment where they can express themselves freely is essential. Don’t worry about people watching or judging you as you work. Instead, focus on creating a safe space for your subject to feel comfortable and express their emotions.
5. Don’t judge yourself harshly
As actors may experience self-doubt and criticism, photographers can also be hard on themselves when trying to create the perfect shot. It’s essential to remember that photography is an art form, and you’re allowed to make mistakes. Don’t judge yourself too harshly, and be open to experimenting with different techniques to create the desired emotions in your subject.
Put this advice into practice
Creating emotion in your subjects is crucial for a photographer to capture captivating and memorable images. By taking advice from actors, you can learn to channel emotions and create a comfortable environment for your subject to express themselves.
Remember to put yourself in the story, relax, imitate your favorite actor, don’t worry about people watching, and don’t judge yourself too harshly. Following these tips, you can create powerful, emotional images that tell a story and capture the moment’s essence.
