Focal length, depth of field, composition and light position are the four blocks of portrait photography prompts. Master the vocabulary and your portraits instantly read more professional.
Focal length effect on portraits
| Focal length | Effect |
|---|---|
| 35mm wide | Documentary feel, environmental portrait |
| 50mm standard | Close to natural vision |
| 85mm portrait | Classic portrait focal, shallow DoF |
| 135mm long | Heavy compression, most cinematic blur |
Depth of field vocabulary
- shallow depth of field
- bokeh background
- f/1.4 aperture / f/2.8
- creamy background blur
Composition
- medium shot (waist-up)
- medium close-up (chest-up)
- close-up portrait
- three-quarter view
- rule of thirds
Light position
| Position | Phrasing | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Soft window | soft window light | Natural, gentle |
| Backlight | backlight / rim light | Glowing outline |
| Side | side light | Strong dimensionality |
| Top | top light | Dramatic |
| Golden hour | golden hour | Warm color temperature |
| Blue hour | blue hour | Cool atmosphere |