Self Portraits - a few ideas to creatively express yourself through your lens.
What do you photograph when you’re not inspired by your surroundings but still want to practice your lighting, creative eye and composition? Yourself of course!
It is a common theme that photographers do not like being photographed themselves, but many of the greats of street and portrait photography also dabbled with self portrait work from time to time. Here are a few things to try to get you started with practicing self-portraiture:
1: Find a reflective surface
Mirrors, windows and reflective surfaces are all around us and can often be used to create interesting photographs.
2: Setup a tripod or a timer
Self-timers are great for when you just don’t have a reflection available. Many cameras can now be operated via smartphone for added ease and tripods negate the need to find a table or hard surface.
3: Use shadows
You don’t actually have to be facing the lens to create a photographic likeness of yourself. Shadows or perhaps even select body parts can be used for a more mysterious self-portrait.
4: Incorporate yourself into a street scene
This one is more advanced but can work brilliantly if you are able to catch an interesting street photograph with yourself in the frame. Shoot into windows from outside or look for reflective surfaces to mirror the scene behind you.
5 - Get abstract with the environment, lighting and odd compositions
Once you have tried all the previous steps, think about how to use your camera or location to create something a bit quirky and unique. Try playing with shutter speed, looking for extraordinary reflective surfaces or even pull an unflattering face! Have fun with it and see how strange you can make it. As for this type or portraiture, you are in full control behind and in front of the camera.
I hope some of these ideas were of value to you. If you manage to create an interesting self-portrait, please get in touch. I’d love to see them!
Luke
