A Teaspoon of Emotion may sway the judges

Although this is Tip No 4, it should probably be Tip No 1.

The single biggest factor that will elevate your image as a finalist is to add the element of EMOTION.

Too many photographers think that if they secure the services of an attractive/interesting subject, arrange quality lighting and produce a pin-sharp image with an expensive camera they will automatically guarantee a top ten finish. Its not true.

'Dragonfly' Family Portrait - Nikon D700 1/60@f16 800ISO 50mm Nikkor lens. 

Portraits involve making images of human beings; living, breathing human beings.

Humans have thoughts, feelings and moods - all expressed as emotions.

Too many photographers either intentionally or unintentionally seek to hide emotions.

How do you express emotion in a portrait?

1. Facial expressions - in particular the eyes and mouth
2. Body language - gestures, body angle, reaction to a stimulus
3. The surroundings can contribute
4. Add a second person - interaction
5. Add a dog or cat (or any animal!)  - interaction

Entries to the  2015 International Portrait Prize close on 21 August 2015. It costs just AU$20 to enter and there's AU$12,000 in cash and prizes. For full details click  FiPP2015.

If you want to learn more about Portrait Techniques and Photographing Faces click HERE for details of the UWA Extension photography workshop.