I. Understanding the Qualities of a Good Background
Before you start scouting, know what makes a background "good" for a portrait:
* Doesn't Distract from the Subject: The background should complement the subject, not compete with them for attention. Avoid overly busy or chaotic patterns, bright colors that clash, or anything that pulls the eye away.
* Provides Context & Tells a Story (Optional): Sometimes, you want the background to add to the narrative. A field of wildflowers might suggest a free-spirited personality, while a historic building could hint at heritage or a sense of place. This depends on the vision you have for the portrait.
* Offers Complementary Colors: Consider the colors in the subject's clothing and skin tone. Look for backgrounds that offer colors that harmonize or contrast in a pleasing way. Color theory basics (complementary, analogous, triadic colors) can be helpful.
* Provides Depth and Dimension: A flat, featureless background can look boring. Look for elements that create depth, such as layers of trees, leading lines, or variations in light and shadow.
* Offers Clean Lines and Simplicity: Often, less is more. A blurred background (bokeh) can isolate the subject beautifully. Even a simple wall can work if the light is right.
* Offers Texture: Brick walls, weathered wood, foliage, or even a textured sky can add visual interest without being distracting.
* Is Free from Distracting Elements: This is key. Watch out for things like:
* Trash cans, power lines, cars: Obvious distractions.
* People walking: Unless they're part of the story.
* Signs and billboards: Unless they're intentionally ironic or relevant.
* Bright patches of light: Can draw the eye away and create harsh shadows.
II. Practical Tips for Finding Backgrounds
* Scout Locations Ahead of Time: Don't wait until the day of the shoot to start looking for a background. Go to potential locations beforehand and observe the light at different times of day. Take test shots with your phone or camera.
* Use the "Location Scout" Mentality Every Day: Train yourself to notice potential backgrounds wherever you go. A seemingly ordinary alleyway might have an interesting texture or quality of light.
* Consider the Time of Day: The quality of light changes dramatically throughout the day. The "golden hour" (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) is generally considered ideal for portraits, but other times can work too, depending on the location and subject. Overcast days can provide soft, even light.
* Look for Natural Light Modifiers: Trees, buildings, and even clouds can act as natural light modifiers, diffusing harsh sunlight and creating softer, more flattering light.
* Change Your Perspective: Don't just stand at eye level. Try shooting from a low angle to make the subject appear taller and the background more expansive, or from a high angle to get a different perspective.
* Use a Telephoto Lens to Compress the Background: Telephoto lenses (e.g., 85mm, 135mm, 200mm) have a shallow depth of field, which helps blur the background and isolate the subject. They also "compress" the background, making distant objects appear closer and larger.
* Open Shade: Positioning your subject in open shade is often a great way to get flattering and even lighting while working in the outdoors. Open shade is an area shielded from direct sunlight, but still receives light from the sky.
* Take Advantage of Leading Lines: Roads, fences, rivers, and even shadows can act as leading lines, drawing the viewer's eye to the subject.
* Embrace the Unexpected: Sometimes the best backgrounds are found by accident. Be open to unexpected opportunities and don't be afraid to experiment.
* Explore Different Types of Locations:
* Parks and Gardens: Offer a variety of natural backgrounds, such as trees, flowers, and water features.
* Urban Areas: Buildings, walls, murals, and street art can provide interesting textures and patterns.
* Beaches and Lakes: Offer a sense of serenity and expansive views.
* Fields and Farms: Provide a rustic and natural setting.
* Forests and Woodlands: Offer a sense of mystery and depth.
* Industrial Areas: Can provide a gritty and edgy aesthetic.
* Your Own Backyard: Don't overlook the potential of your own property or a friend's.
* Use a Wide Aperture (Low f-number): This will create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and making the subject stand out. (e.g., f/1.8, f/2.8, f/4)
* Consider the Season: The time of year drastically changes the look of outdoor locations. Lush green foliage in the summer gives way to colorful autumn leaves or bare branches in winter. Plan accordingly.
* Get Permissions if Needed: If you're shooting on private property, make sure to get permission from the owner. Some public parks may also require permits for commercial photography.
* Use Photography Apps: Some apps allow you to find spots, or see photos taken at certain spots that could inspire you.
* Consider your subject: If you are photographing a child, you might want bright colours and playground equipment as a background. If you're photographing a business person, an urban, professional setting might work better.
III. Post-Processing Considerations
* Subtle Adjustments: You can further refine the background in post-processing by adjusting the brightness, contrast, and saturation.
* Selective Blur: You can add a subtle blur to the background in post-processing to further isolate the subject.
* Color Grading: Adjust the colors in the background to create a specific mood or atmosphere. Be subtle.
IV. Examples of Good and Bad Backgrounds
* Good:
* A field of wildflowers with soft, diffused light.
* A brick wall with interesting texture and a warm color palette.
* A blurred background of trees with dappled sunlight.
* A simple, solid-colored wall with clean lines.
* Bad:
* A busy street with lots of cars and people.
* A bright, reflective surface that creates distracting highlights.
* A cluttered backyard with lots of random objects.
* A background that is brighter than the subject.
By keeping these tips in mind and practicing your scouting skills, you'll be well on your way to finding great backgrounds for your outdoor portraits! Remember to prioritize a clean, complementary, and non-distracting background that enhances the subject and tells a story (if desired). Good luck!