Come on people, am I really that overweight, wrinkled, pale, depressed in the photo you just took of me? What happened to the top of my head? Why is there more of the background than my face in this picture? WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE?
Okay, I am all for honesty. But in your portrait photos you want to bring out the best and diminish the not-so-wonderful features.
I have a client who STILL has not posted a Facebook profile pic because he admits he is way too overweight. I propose to him that YES you can look good in a portrait photo that has been shot with a thoughtful photographer making best use of lighting and shadows and setting or backdrop WITHOUT the manipulation of the image in Photoshop.
In addition, for that aged or overweight or drug-addicted individual you want to emphasize their character rather than their shortcomings.
The best photographer waits for the perfect moment when the soul shines through the eyes. When the dancer strikes the coolest, most unpredictable pose.
So here’s to more interesting and complimentary portrait photos! Make me look good, please.
Photo Retouch 