I. Understanding What Makes a Good Background
Before you start searching, it's important to know what you're looking for. A good background:
* Doesn't distract from the subject: It should complement, not compete with, your subject.
* Provides context or adds to the story: The background can help convey a mood, tell a story, or reveal something about the subject.
* Has good color and texture: These elements can add visual interest and depth to the photo.
* Offers a clean and uncluttered look (or purposeful clutter): Avoid distracting elements that pull the viewer's eye away from the subject. Sometimes, intentional clutter can add character, but it should be carefully considered.
* Has pleasing light: Backlighting, sidelighting, and even overcast lighting can create different moods.
* Offers depth: Using elements like leading lines or blurred backgrounds can create a sense of depth.
II. Scouting Locations
* Walk Around: The best way to find great backgrounds is to explore your local area. Take your camera with you and experiment.
* Time of Day Matters: Locations look completely different at different times of day. The "golden hour" (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) usually provides the best light. Consider also the "blue hour" (the period of twilight each morning and evening when the sun is a significant distance below the horizon and the residual sunlight takes on a predominantly blue hue.)
* Google Maps & Street View: Use these tools to virtually scout locations before you physically go. You can get a feel for the environment and identify potential backgrounds.
* Instagram & Photography Websites: Search for photos taken in your area. Use hashtags and location tags to find inspiration and identify popular spots. Pay attention to the backgrounds that work well in those photos.
* Ask Locals: Tap into local knowledge. Ask friends, family, or community members for recommendations.
* Think Outside the Box: Don't limit yourself to parks and scenic overlooks. Look for interesting walls, fences, doorways, architectural details, urban textures, and even simple patches of grass.
* Look Up: Don't just focus on what's at eye level. Interesting trees, skies, and buildings can make great backgrounds.
* Consider the Season: Different seasons offer different textures and colors. A location that looks great in the spring might look completely different in the fall.
* Document Potential Spots: When you find a good location, take a few test shots and make notes about the time of day, lighting conditions, and potential challenges.
III. Specific Types of Backgrounds to Look For
* Natural Elements:
* Trees: Look for interesting shapes, textures, and colors. Backlighting through trees can create beautiful light flares and bokeh.
* Fields of Flowers or Grass: These provide a soft and colorful background.
* Water: Lakes, rivers, oceans, and even puddles can add depth and reflection.
* Mountains or Hills: Offer a grand and dramatic backdrop.
* Sky: Clouds, sunsets, and sunrises can create stunning effects.
* Man-Made Elements:
* Walls: Brick walls, painted walls, and walls with interesting textures can add character.
* Fences: Wooden fences, wrought-iron fences, and fences covered in vines can be visually appealing.
* Doors and Gateways: Can frame the subject and add a sense of mystery.
* Architectural Details: Arches, columns, and other architectural features can add elegance.
* Urban Textures: Graffiti, industrial settings, and street art can create an edgy and modern look.
* Staircases: Offer leading lines and interesting angles.
* Abstract/Blurred Backgrounds:
* Use a wide aperture (low f-stop number): This creates a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and isolating the subject.
* Distance: Increase the distance between your subject and the background to enhance the blur.
* Movement: Experiment with moving the camera or the subject to create motion blur in the background.
IV. Composing Your Shot
* Rule of Thirds: Place your subject at one of the intersections of an imaginary grid that divides the frame into thirds.
* Leading Lines: Use lines in the background (roads, fences, etc.) to draw the viewer's eye to the subject.
* Framing: Use elements in the foreground (trees, arches, etc.) to frame the subject and add depth.
* Depth of Field: Control the depth of field (the amount of the image that is in focus) to emphasize the subject and blur the background. A wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or f/1.8) will create a shallow depth of field and blur the background.
* Angle of View: Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering perspective and the best composition.
* Color Harmony: Pay attention to the colors in the background and how they complement the subject.
V. Light is Key
* Golden Hour: As mentioned, the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset provide the best light for outdoor portraits. The light is soft, warm, and flattering.
* Overcast Days: Overcast days can also be good for portraits, as they provide soft, even light that minimizes shadows.
* Open Shade: Look for areas of open shade, such as under a tree or building. This provides even lighting without harsh shadows.
* Backlighting: Position your subject with the sun behind them, creating a soft glow around them. You may need to use a reflector or fill flash to brighten their face.
* Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and squinting.
* Reflectors: Use reflectors to bounce light onto your subject's face and fill in shadows.
VI. Tips for Making the Most of Your Background
* Keep it Simple: Sometimes the simplest backgrounds are the most effective.
* Less is More: Don't try to cram too much into the frame.
* Pay Attention to Details: Check for distracting elements in the background and remove them if possible. (e.g., trash, stray branches).
* Adjust Your Position: Moving just a few inches can make a big difference in the background.
* Communicate with Your Subject: Tell them where to stand, how to pose, and what to look at.
* Post-Processing: You can use post-processing software (like Lightroom or Photoshop) to further refine your backgrounds, such as adjusting colors, adding blur, or removing distractions. However, it's always best to get as much right in-camera as possible.
* Experiment! Don't be afraid to try different things and see what works.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find and use great backgrounds to create stunning outdoor portraits that capture the beauty and personality of your subjects. Good luck!