What do I mean by that? Reflection in terms of the actual material that can create an actual reflection. I am also speaking about you, the artist and your subject. Firstly, let's talk about the materials and the challenges that arise. Years ago, when I was photographing with a film camera and wanting to photograph anything through a glass window, I would have a polarizer filter in my camera bag. A polarizer filter is often placed in front of the camera lens in photography in order to darken skies, manage reflections, or suppress glare from the surface of lakes or the sea.
However, since moving into digital photography, I find myself not carrying this wonderful filter. I like having the reflections in my images. However, this filter is a multitasker. It is great for helping your images of sky and clouds more predominate. the filter works wonders for black and white imagery and is a must for infrared film photography. For the photography shoot image above, I wanted to include the reflections of people walking by and the light rays from the overhead lights. I moved around until I had the light reflection right where I wanted them. I feel these reflections add another element to the overall image. Do you agree?
So now, onto to the other, reflection in portraiture photography. What makes a successful portrait?
I was taught and still believe that a successful portrait is a combination of the photographer and subject. Tell or reveal a small part of the person you are photographing. That can be with color, mood, props, style, movement or anything else you feel is important. But the viewer HAS to come away with a sense they have a small fraction of an idea who you subject is, are or what is important to them. No wavering on this point. It is key to astounding results. In addition to this very important component, is making sure YOU are in the portrait as well. Can you tell or feel you are in your portraits? Portraits are intimate photography sessions. Having you in your work, whether it is a mood, pose, color or reflection is a must for a successful portrait.
All Images ©Lisa Ramsay 2020
