5 TIPS to INSTANTLY IMPROVE your PORTRAITS 📷

[@Vellavi]

I watched billions of KZbin videos about photography, but this one was probably the most useful I've ever seen. Thanks so much Glyn!

[@glyndewis]

That means A LOT!!! Thank you so much Nick.

[@rosteddy1]

Totally agree, Thanks so much amazing vidéo ❤❤❤❤❤

[@JohnEboyee]

How did you find time to shoot?

[@maxbashyrov5785]

What kind of youtube was it?

[@devonaw2025]

My thoughts exactly!!❤

[@darrellcadieux3497]

Glyn, I believe this is one of the most important portrait instruction videos I have ever seen. Far beyond the usual lighting techno class videos we are all accustomed to. It's about how to achieve story telling in portraiture. Thank you. Please keep them coming.

[@glyndewis]

Darrell … that is so kind of you to say. Thank you. Yeah although I love the technicals and all the gadgets (I REALLY love gadgets) … I love sitting and chatting with folks before doing their portrait more 😉

[@JOHAN_PERJUS]

Agreed

[@gonzotravelling]

Absolutely. Like all photographers I've been drawn in by the endless gear and technical videos, but over time as I've started to earn money from photography, I've learned that connecting with the client and making them comfortable is everything.

[@TheShenandoahPerry]

Sometimes I am so pleasantly surprised by the quality and experience of some people who go above and beyond my expectations on KZbin. This comment sums it up for me about this one. Just wonderful.

[@texasflyboy525]

Came here to say this and totally agree, the most important portraiture video I've seen so far. And you kept it to under 10 minutes, amazing. Had a taste of this experience when photographing a shop owner recently (day one was just talking so day two everyone was comfortable), it takes longer but if you like being with people it's time well spent!

[@YaYousef5]

It's incredibly refreshing to see a photographer on KZbin talk about connection, emotion and understanding people to improve your photography rather than the 1000's who try to sell you on getting more gear, specs or buying their preset packs. Your tips are excellent and I'll be using them in my next shoot! Thank you.

[@AxelAxePodcast]

very true. connection is way harder to learn and practice than the technical side of things

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@amoshies123]

I’m not a portrait photographer but this video felt like a master class in less than 10 minutes. Brilliant! Thank you for sharing.

[@glyndewis]

That’s very kind of you to say that Joe … thank you

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@PiXimperfect]

This is such a beautiful video!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much my friend ... really appreciate that 😉

[@jctimtim1619]

I agree so much

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@michaellennon9427]

I’m a veteran. My Dad served 1944-63 in US Marines. I really appreciate the respect and awareness you had for the veterans you’ve worked with. They deserve it. Thank you.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for that

[@kirkdarling4120]

Good tips. The photographer who used to "own" the ToysRUs contract gave me the same tip for photographing children. Essentially, children depend very heavily on seeing our faces for communication. If they can't see your face, it's just a disembodied voice that they have a hard time hearing (it's rather true for adults, too). So that photographer's practice was to put the camera on a tripod and use a remote release to get away from the camera. He'd even sit on the floor just out of lens range and even engage directly with the children. I've adopted that practice with virtually all my portrait work. Like you, I put the camera on a tripod, set up the composition, and get out from behind the camera. I also use a remote shutter release so that instead of waving my hand, I actually move out to where I want the subject to look and say "Look at me" while I continue to engage them. I also show my subjects selected shots during the session. One thing I've done, using Canon's Picture Style Editor, is to create a custom picture style so that the images on the camera or on my laptop already look very much the way I'll style the finished image (Nikon has something similar...Sony, I don't know). I learned this about complimenting people when I show them their pictures during the session: I don't compliment their attributes, I compliment their choices and actions. So I won't say, "You look great," I'll say, "That gesture...that's just right. Let's do more of that."

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much for commenting … and yeah some great insight there 👍

[@RenderMeTV]

holly cow, 12 years of photography, and this is the very first time i see a photography channel actually talking about this, so pro those tips, the "look through" blew mi mind, so obvious! but never tried before, now, ill follow all these tips, thanks for sharing

[@glyndewis]

That’s great to hear … thanks so much for watching

[@mynameistrd6841]

Now this is a true photographer who happens to make KZbin videos, not a KZbinr trying to look like a photographer. What a great useful video. Thanks so much for this

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for that

[@joschmid5235]

Finally a photographer talks about the person who he is photographing and not about the technical stuff. Thanks a lot !

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much Jo … glad you like it

[@NishanSaliya]

I came for a technical video of "how to take portraits" but ended up getting a lesson which is far more important. I'm glad I watched this before my very first photoshoot as a novice photographer. If there is anything called "Photography Psychology", that should be taught to everyone of the novice photographers! Thank you for this beautiful great video. The content is beyond what I expected! Greetings from Sri Lanka !

[@glyndewis]

Made my day reading this! So glad this has been useful..thank you

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@kraftaculousgreekgodofcraf1113]

It’s true. Photographers are like vampires. We can’t just walk into someone’s home. We have to be invited into the home but once they invite you in, you can start dragging photo gear and lights all over the place. This is actually a very professionally done video with a lot of information! Thank you.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much

[@rumidoo8082]

What I love about this video is it also applies to models that are used to photos. I used to model and when people I worked with made effort to create a connection, to be really "there", the result was always amazing. Now, as a photographer, I'll gladly take and apply all these advices. Thank you so much !

[@herrkelm]

Spot on. The human connection in portraits, both in your conversation but the images we capture, is paramount. Thank you for your thoughts and inspirations.

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Jason

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@MetalGuyReacts]

My grandfather made documentary films his whole life starting in the 1950's. You and him would've gotten along amazingly! When shooting video I've carried many lessons from him. Two of his lessons; 1. In order to document what's real, you have to connect with the person in front of the camera and set them at ease. 2. Always be curious. I came here looking for technical tips and found out I already knew the answer to my question of how to get better portraits. Thank you, Glyn! You rock!!

[@Psychologist_beyzaa]

Hi Glyn, I really liked your way of explaining things. I am an amateur photographer and a psychologist and I wrote my master thesis about PTSS and it indeed makes a change to feel people listen you. How nice that you took his story and feelings into account. I was not aware that the interaction between the photographer and the person that much mattered or have a such tremendous effect. Thanks a lot for teaching this 😊

[@stephenchapis268]

After 15 years of conducting audio interviews pilots and veterans for print magazine articles, I've started, whenever possible, doing the interviews in person and on video. This video contains the best advice I've seen yet on shooting video interviews and portraits. Thank you.

[@glyndewis]

That’s very kind of you to say that Stephen … thank you so much

[@sergedaleiden5597]

Hi Glyn. Very useful indeed. We all still fall too much into the gear trap. Settings, lighting equipment, what camera/lens to use, etc. Yet, in landscape it is more the composition and the story that make or break a winning picture. In portraits it is all about the people being connected with the photographer by feeling at ease and comfortable. Not easy especially when the photographer and the subject meet for the first time. Excellent 5 points. Thank you very much Glyn.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much Serge … really glad you like it

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@PaulScott_]

Smashing comments and pointers that we apply to life and not just photography. Your connection and eye contact reminded of Yousuf Karsh's portraits. With regards to veterans, my father was a veteran and I learned early on that asking them questions (not just combat action questions) about themselves and listening could lead to some very interesting conversations. I found that you don't need to be a good conversationalist just a good question asker and a better listener. I was in the Canadian Air Force for 27 years and many of my friends and coworkers suffered with PTSD. During our video production for training young officers I learned that they (they were on staff) got easily startled with loud or sudden noises, movement and lighting changes. Video lights with calm and friendly interaction, quiet movie slate and a soft "action" went along way to making them comfortable. So glad to see your work with veterans from all conflicts as they need their story told, even just through a portrait, with kindness, compassion and understanding. If you show a true interest in them and make them feel that they are more than just a photographic subject so that you get your shot and your money, that will go a long way! Thanks again Glyn for sharing your skills and expertise with us! :)

[@glyndewis]

Paul, thank you so much for watching and for such a lovely comment. Working with the Veterans has genuinely been the best thing I’ve ever done in my life; made so many friends and unintentionally it has been so incredibly rewarding.

[@AutoMotivate]

Dudeeee, the photo of John is amazing. Cheers

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much

[@johnkaper1129]

That was an amazing video. I am a hobbyist or an amateur photographer and also a grandfather of two great grandkids. I just received their school pictures, ages 6 and 10 years. Their photos were excellent, sharp, clear, in focus and properly lighted as you would expect from a professional photographer. I thought that I would like to take some portraits like that myself and I went on KZbin and found your video. It was the best, all the rest talked about the technical stuff and not the personal connection that you make, especially with the veterans. I am a veteran myself and your approach of leaving your camera gear outside until you establish a comfort zone, silent shutter mode and all of your other tips were so appropriate. Thank you Glyn, I feel that I learned so much from you. Can't wait to try your techniques, MMFI. USMC retired.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for commenting John; very happy this has been useful in some way. Respect to you for having served in the USMC.

[@johnkaper1129]

@@glyndewis thank you.

[@patrickwilliam8060]

Glyn you did it again. I've been building up my own style and portfolio in both photography and videography. Your content is the most approach/skill building content on KZbin for creatives and is proving to be invaluable. Thank you sir

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for commenting Patrick … very kind

[@Sanderhhan]

Wow, you are absolutely amazing. I am a hobby photographer, studying communication and psychology. The way that you are observing and taking small hints in from the communication and gestures the other person (model) is sending, is amazing. You act upon what you know and what you are learing. Amazing work!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much

[@m.atanasov]

If there was a 'heart' button - I would directly bang on it. One like is not enough for this video. Absolutely different angle of photography tips. Good job.

[@glyndewis]

Very kind of you to say that ... thank you

[@GiovanniMaset-hf6mf]

I would really like to say the same thing other people told you: this is one of the best video of photography I've ever seen. Thank you so much Glyn! These are very precious tips!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much

[@elizabethgriffithsphotography]

Totally agree with you Glyn. The best portraits are always produced when you truly get to know your subject in detail! Thank you for another wonderful insight into your approach! Truly inspiring!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much Elizabeth … glad you like it

[@roar6428]

I've watched many videos about portrait photography and most of them focus on the technical aspects of lighting, settings, and posing. However, none of them focus on the most important aspect which is a relaxed and comfortable "subject". Excellent tips!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much. Glad you like it.

[@KudoYoung]

Its nice to finally see portraits of men/boys for a change...

[@tommraz6577]

Some of the most intelligent, and essential portrait photography tips I've come across. Thanks for sharing such great tips with everyone.

[@undercoverblk]

🤯 BEST video on portraiture I have ever seen. A thousand times thank you. You so insightfully explained the difference between photographs and portraits, and what has been holding back my images.

[@glyndewis]

So good to hear this … thank you

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

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[@MarttiSuomivuori]

I only take pictures of people I like. You describe the method of making it happen. I did not think of the tripod+remote, but with an iPhone, it is a piece of cake. A nice one, Glyn, thank you.

[@KevinRusso]

This is a really good and important video. I always tell my students' Portraits are not about the equipment but always about the people we photograph. Taking the time to get to know the person and being sensitive to their needs goes sooooo much further than using a shallow depth of field. This video should be required viewing

[@glyndewis]

Wonderful that you say that Kevin … thank you

[@knutboger341]

It is great you took the time to shoot out the front door with, and without the kit, great way to put the viewer in that position. Simple, creative and effective :)

[@glyndewis]

Thank you

[@mycowboyways915]

MMFI. Probably some of the best life advice to employ anytime you are talking to someone. I need to use this technique more.

[@glyndewis]

Glad it was useful

[@canadagoose62]

Very interesting indeed. As a headshot photographer I always have my customers sit in a non photo environment and explain that I'd like to have a conversation with them, just like you do. We talk for about 15 minutes before moving to the studio area and it really works for getting that connection you speak of. I definitely need to slow down as I get excited taking the pictures but will try the hand and tripod suggestions for sure. Excellent stuff Glyn!

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much for watching and for commenting Mike 👍🏻

[@MattyInProcess]

100% earned my sub. This is masterful/elite level thinking. Your perception level and ability to analyze yourself and your interactions with people to find out where you might have gone wrong is a rare trait. You also treat people with dignity and respect. I literally started to get tears in my eyes with how you treated the WW2 veteran and the implications of how an event can haunt a man 80 years later. To say that this video offers a lot is an understatement. I'm going to bookmark it so that I can come back to it from time to time and refresh my own knowledge and understanding. Thanks.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much

[@ilovegurusahib]

Nothing like this experience. This is priceless and absolute spot on.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much

[@dereck_MT360]

This is the best 5 tips I’ve received about Portraits. This really resonates with my business because I live in a military town. I never stopped to think about the off camera flash having adverse effects on those suffering PTSD. Thank you so much!!! 🙏🏾

[@glyndewis]

So glad you approve Dereck as you have experience with veterans … thank you

[@r.c8756]

Wow, it’s the first youtube video about photography that makes me want to be the model instead of behind the camera. You make it sound like almost a therapy. Beautiful insightful advice by the way, it changes from the usual technical tips so many channels do.

[@glyndewis]

So good of you to say this … thank you and thanks for watching

[@AdamTaubVideo]

Thanks for the video and great suggestions and reminders. I've done a lot more video interviews than still portraits and I also find that many of the tips cross over. If I'm shooting hand held I would often shoot from my waste or chest level but try not to cover my face with the camera. I also try not to constantly be looking at the screen and instead engaging the person. The same goes for on a tripod but is easier when you don't have to worry about framing and focus.

[@tonymeow2849]

Wow, actually a very first KZbinr that teaches others and has experience in what he is teaching about. You’re doing great, love your photos. Keep it going

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much

[@skylargail6835]

Loved that this tip was about any type of technical camera or editing tips! Sometimes it is just as simple as the human connection of people, and that is why photography is so much more than just a photo! This has been my favorite video yet for photography, thank you!

[@corinagul612]

This is brilliant! You’ve explained why I felt awkward shooting strangers I barely know - connection. I didn’t have that with models and it showed. In contrast, the kids that I photographed have deep connections with me as their carer and I’d see it in their eyes, their poses, sometimes even cheeky poses 😂 Thank you for explaining and clarifying ❤

[@glyndewis]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@rashid.noorani]

Dear Glyn, I loved the way you kept your language simple without using too much technical jargon. The last photo of Ernest John Sleep (RIP) was the icing on the cake. Good stuff.

[@alexsimpson6836]

This was arguably the best non technical photography video I've ever seen. Well done sir.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much

[@timpenner7858]

This is the best portrait tips video I've seen - and there have been a lot of them. It's not 45 minutes of blather, you reinforce your words with text, and then, at the end, you summarize your points. You have a new fan.

[@glyndewis]

That’s very kind of you … thank you

[@darebear2001]

Those were great tips. Approachable and very doable. In fact, your approach to photography reminded me of how Yousef Karsh approached his portraiture. He shot with a cable release bulb and was always visible to his subjects and just chatted with them and took the shot when it felt right. At times he antagonized his subjects (see Winston Churchill) to get an emotional reaction. I really appreciated your video and the rest of your content it helps me teach skills to my high school students. Well done.

[@glyndewis]

That’s wonderful to hear Darren … thank you so much

[@RetroHoo]

This is such useful video. It's all about getting that connection. It's lovely to see someone focus (no pun intended) on the human side instead of talking about lighting patterns and/or gear. I usually do my best work with a camera and a handheld reflector. Keep it simple and connect. Thanks!

[@Elaleruiz]

I'm glad to find an intelligent person with a great sense of empathy...it's not something common to see...Thank you very much for your suggestions to portray people!

[@glyndewis]

That’s very kind of you to say Alejandro … thank you

[@utilitarian]

This is just brilliant. As a photo student, working with portraits is dautning - I really like the way you have really thought about how to improve and it makes perfect sense. Thank you!

[@osvalchaves]

Amazing and didactic video. Loved it. Totally useful. Centering in the person and not the shooter nor the equipment changed my point of view about portraits. Great job. Subscribed!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much Osvaldo

[@hom296]

Every photographer who does portraits should watch this video! I was especially impressed with number two = eye contact. When I did weddings, I used mostly a Hasselblad on a tripod with a cable release. I was able to communicate with my subject(s) and build a repour. I don't think that I could do the same nowadays with my Canon camera glued to my eye.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you for that and thank you for watching

[@waynesimpson2168]

Wonderful video... so, so , so on point! As a portrait photographer who does mostly location shoots this was quite useful and enlightening. Thank you!

[@glyndewis]

That’s great to hear Wayne … thank you

[@vit4min_c]

It's refreshing to see someone approaching this with compassion.

[@chadwelch3579]

Very useful. Such a good way of presenting something that's much more difficult than the actual photography. Thank you.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you Chad

[@suebyrne7739]

Great tips. So wonderful that you spent the time listening to Earnest and caring for his needs. I imagine he was well made up with your visit and the portrait you made.

[@glyndewis]

It was lovely meeting Ernest and many times afterwards, and becoming friends. A truly lovely man. Much missed.

[@charliegreen1989]

Great tips Glyn, will definitely be putting them into practice.

[@glyndewis]

Cheers Charlie ... I use these ALL the time so I really hope they help

[@JashimJalal]

These tips are really good. I implement them at my weddings during portrait sessions and I have to agree, the MMFI is a great rule of thumb to get anyone feel comfortable around you and even more so when you have someone in front of your camera. An add on to this list, encourage collaboration. When they feel they are involved it gets the subject more invested in helping you accomplish the vision. Great tips Glyn! Thanks!

[@stephenwoodburn2970]

What an excellent portrait tutorial. I struggle with taking portraits, even though I have all of the required kit. I think this approach of putting the subject at ease and making a connection just may be the key. What a great project you did with the war veterans. That must have been a very special project and you did an amazing job. Merry Christmas, Glyn. Take care.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much Stephen and yeah the 39-45 Project was quite an experience. It’s still ongoing but not at the pace it was prior to the exhibition and Covid landing in our lives. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

[@allnn2552]

Mr. Dewis, I really want to let you know that you are a true proffesional. So many "photographers" on KZbin or Instagram always boosting about how well their pictures look. But you are a true artists and understands that the meaning and stories behind the picture is more important!! I've learned a lot from your video. I'm showing your video to my students!! Thank you so much!! Two Thumbs Up and Subscribed!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for such kind words; so good to hear that you liked the video too ... thank you!

[@Third13]

The section with the WWII veteran and the PTSD hit hard. Well done!

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much Jeff. John was such a sweet man ... met up with him many times afterwards at events, his home and in Normandy. A truly lovely man. Much missed.

[@charlyrod4205]

The amount of information in this video is incredible. It would have taken me months or years to learn this. I really appreciate you sharing this information with us.

[@glyndewis]

You're more than welcome ... thanks so much for commenting and for watching

[@charlyrod4205]

@@glyndewis Thanks to you too.

[@Dmbishop70]

Great Tips Glyn. When shooting corporate headshots, I'll sometimes do 80-90 in a day, so that's less than 5 mins a person, so I have my patter ready for each person. Similar to your point 4, I will often say "ah, you've done this before haven't you, you're a natural at it" to which the normal response is a laugh and a genuine real smile. Point 6 should be: Never say smile!

[@glyndewis]

Agree with you about the ‘no smile’ … I tend to find that actually causes one 😀

[@keithkreatives]

No.3 BRILLIANT! I've used Peter Hurley's "head forward/chin down" technique for years, but I've never been able to explain his famous "squinch". Your trick of having them look through your fingers is PERFECT!

[@keithkreatives]

....and the story of John literally brought me to tears

[@delhidreamss]

I must have watched thousands of ‘how to’ photography videos by now, but this one was perhaps the most useful in explaining the actual ‘how’ behind a great photograph. Thank you so much Glyn.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for that

[@JuanManuelTastzian]

Never thought about portrait photography seriously Glyn, but these tips sound golden. Thanks for sharing!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much for that Juan

[@harrymacdonald]

I love what you’re saying here, so many so called portraits online when looking for inspiration pI’m seeing online are dead and despite having an interesting model/location. It’s the connection and letting someone relax into their normal form and emotion.

[@WinstonSmith-q9d]

This is a side of portrait photography you rarely see addressed. Very interesting. I'm just beginning portraits. Having done mostly concert photography, I'm currently interested in taking pictures of some of the older folks I meet on my meals on wheels route. This video is quite helpful and will make everyone more comfortable with the process.

[@zachbenson9548]

I'm a lifetime hobbyist that loves photography but I'm not exactly a talented photographer. I've been spending the last 2 years trying to get more serious about it and have delved into a lot of videos on how to improve your photography. Everything centers around sensor size, megapixels, gear, tripods, RAW vs JPEG. It's all been taking the joy out of going out and just shooting and creating experiences and documenting life. This is the best tutorial I have seen so far. You put the human element front and center and it shows in your photos. I hope to see more stuff like this for other styles of photography as well. Very inspiring content.

[@gallegoau]

After watch tons of videos about portrait on YT, this so far is one of the best tips on entire web.. You really deserve a like on this and earned one more follower.

[@glyndewis]

Very kind of you! Thanks so much

[@fiefire1234]

Such a beautiful and touching video. John’s portrait came out beautiful and heartwarming. An amazing story from an amazing photographer.

[@pilot2002010]

I will definitely try this. Your approach to getting into people’s brains is like nothing I’ve ever seen or heard. Definitely subscribing!

[@glyndewis]

Hope it's useful ... thanks for watching

[@ModernElegancePhoto]

Mixing empathy, compassion, and the ability to communicate on the fly with this is fantastic, thanks!

[@andreafouriephotography]

Possibly one of best videos I have watched on this topic, and I think you have transformed my approach to portrait photography - THANK YOU! I do a lot of this type of work, and I will definitely take these tips to heart.

[@normanrubenis7283]

Absolutely brilliant video. Having just retired as a portrait photographer I used many of these ideas but still learnt some valuable tips, thanks for sharing. We never stop learning.

[@glyndewis]

We never do that's for sure. Cheers Norman 👍🏻

[@giovannissimodifoto]

Glyn, you have given the best advices that I’ve never heard before. I like your insights accompanied it with real examples. I truly thank you and appreciate the time you put into making this video. I just found a “gold nugget”!

[@mortezakhobzi3651]

You are a game changer. A true master who communicates rather than dictates... You deserve billions of compliment ❤

[@kkaradactyl]

Wow, I love this so much. My favorite thing is talking to someone while I’m shooting for those moments of authenticity. I love how you’ve broken that down!

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much ... glad you liked it

[@PurpleKya]

I've been a photographer for 13 years and I've never had someone put it this way. I do some of this but just hearing you explain it so concisely really clicked something in my brain. Thank you :) I'm going to try this at my next photoshoot

[@Carld1]

Great advice. As someone who worked in social care for over 30 years I have always made a specific effort to make conversation and get to know my photo subject. I soon realised this was really helpful in working with models . As you imply it becomes easier if there is a connection during the time spent together . Be easy going with your subject, listen to them and just like meeting anyone new , build a friendly relationship.

[@glyndewis]

100% with you there Carl ... thank you

[@yurialvetti2]

This is one of the greatest videos about portrait photography I’ve ever watched. Thank you for that. Human connection is everything.

[@glyndewis]

Thank you

[@marcoezfilms7143]

so useful! I'm studying a project where I have to take photos of a young girl that never have a photoshoot of herself, and i was searching for some really usefull tip and I think I stumbled in the best video i coul found. Really grateful and you earned a follower from this!

[@glyndewis]

Wonderful to read this ... thank you

[@Wolfie99]

Glyn, thank you so much for this! I've done a fair bit of corporate video in the past, now moved on to other things work wise and now getting into my photography as a hobby. I have a shoot lined up with a good friend of mine who is a talented songwriter and musician who plays folk music on the guitar as well as lute and mandolin. A passionate and talented Artist, also in his 50's, he's quite a character. After this, I can now see the difference between photo and a portrait. I've immediately ordered a remote for my Sony and whilst I have recently bought some Westcott speedlights I'm already thinking about how he is as a person and how I might use my video lights to set up the lighting and capture shots silently whilst engaging in conversation. Something I've never thought about before. I have a home recording set up also having done a fair bit of recording in the past and similarly I'd often ask an artist to give me a 'run through' of the entire song so I can just set the levels but of course actually recording it all. I can't count the number of times I've used the first take. Anyway, thanks so much for your advice Glyn. Really taken this on board. The "look through my fingers" is priceless and makes complete sense. So many thanks for this! It's made me think about things more empathically. Cheers, Darren. (South Wales)

[@mynameistrd6841]

Thanks!

[@glyndewis]

Thank you so much

[@friedpicklezzz]

Wow, this might be one of the best videos on portrait photography I’ve seen. I’m a beginner on the technical side but you are teaching something far more valuable.

[@glyndewis]

So good to read this ... thank you

[@iainmacdonald7034]

Sounds like it helps a lot to be a decent human being, and you self-evidently are, Glyn. Thank you for this and so much other excellent tuition 🙏

[@glyndewis]

Very kind ... thank yuo so much Iain

[@chrisjohn1138]

Glyn with your enthusiasm they must melt before you. And thankfully you are passing your tips onto others. Happy Christmas to your family and yourself, thanks again.

[@glyndewis]

Merry Christmas to you and yours Chris … and thank you

[@lucastrevisani3738]

This is PURE GOLD! And that's it. I know i'll keep watching this week by week! Regards from Brazil.

[@robertmilligan3950]

Not just for portrait shooting but after watching this for people skills. Thank you well put together and will watch again to remind me of MMFI when meeting people.

[@baivabmitra376]

The best advice I EVER got on portrait photos. How I wish he has another one on lightning and third - on face structure. I heard somewhere there are subtle changes required depending on face structure - oval, round, skin color, etc.

[@p13579a]

Glyn, I am totally inspired by your work with WWII veterans. It is so good to honour them in the way that you have. Photography has taught me that everyone is beautiful and I can see that you totally grasp that truth. Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and keep up the good work.

[@toreaasland8085]

Talking to the models is soooo important. I once had a shoot with a girl, who I had asked to join on a shoot. The first thing she said when she arrived at the shoot was that she had a very poor self-image. I said we should sit down and talk. We talked for over 1.5 hours, before I took the camera. The shoot went very well, and we got lots of great photos. The day after, she posted on Facebook: I was on my first pro shoot yesterday. I came in with a self-image that was on the floor, but left with a self-image that went to the ceiling. This taught me a lot, and I deliberately use this when I have inexperienced models. Great tips Glyn. Thank you.

[@vylia]

What a beautiful video, Glyn! I found it because I sought advice to take a good portrait. While I'm not a photographer, I focused on technical advice, and yours touched me. I appreciate human connection at every level, and you made me realize why I love it when my husband takes pictures of me but not when others do. It's such a simple concept, but I realized the depth of it just now. Thank you for sharing your tips; they'll help me relax more to get that authentic image I'm pursuing.

[@glyndewis]

So good to read this … thank you

[@naturerelaxmoviesoftheworld]

kzbin.infojXPUm3eqIP0?si=Eyg_QLk9_PR9A0SX

[@davidecomba5429]

Hi Glyn, You did a live lecture in the covid period, I remember. Anyway, a brush up on these basics, they are a boon for anyone who wants to be a photographer...more human. Since I follow the 'make me feel important' rule I can be a photographer for ordinary people and that's very important to me. Thank you very much, friend!

[@andrewlunn]

Great analysis Glyn and some valuable pointers in there. Sounds like such a great project to have photographed

[@glyndewis]

Thanks Andrew and yeah, the project has been quite an experience. It’s ongoing but not at the pace it was when leading up to the exhibition.

[@FernandoFelicianoJr]

Brilliant advice. Love how you make it about the human connection and not the gear. Lovely. I will use this advice for sure.

[@glyndewis]

Thanks so much for that

[@krisjamesfranzi]

You're so considerate and awesome! As a barber, I can say that this can be translated into so many other lines of work and professions. Your last example of your WW2 vet's photoshoot made me smile and reignited the reason why we, as professionals of the human appearance, do what we do :)

[@glyndewis]

Kris, it means a lot that you should say that … thank you and thank you for watching

[@Quillhook]

So many people speak about the importance of making a connection in portrait photography, but this is the first video I've seen with clear, practical tips on how to do so.

[@FindingMinwoo]

the most precious 9 minutes i spent on youtube for the last few months. thank you.

[@glyndewis]

That's so good to read ... thank you

[@realthoprivate]

Great video, thanks. So nice to watch channels not exclusively about equipment. One thing I often do is using the interval mode, taking a picture every two seconds or so. Silent shutter, of course. Not knowing they are being photographed subjects often gives you something they otherwise wouldn’t have. A lot of pictures to look through later and only constant light - but often a keeper or two.

[@glyndewis]

Loves the idea of that … nice one 👍

[@realthoprivate]

@@glyndewis I think the main difficulty is that you need to trigger a feeling/expression AND you need to time it so it happens at the moment you press the shutter. That is double difficult. In the most extreme case - if you (video) record someone at 30 fps for an hour doing different stuff, one of those 30*60^2 = 108,000 frames will be an amazing portrait - because timing is no longer a factor.