I. Understanding the Qualities of a Good Background
Before you go searching, know what you're looking for. A good background:
* Complements, not competes: It should enhance your subject without drawing attention away from them. Avoid anything too busy or distracting.
* Adds depth and dimension: Using elements that create layers or lead the eye (e.g., a path receding into the distance) is a great approach.
* Doesn't clash with your subject: Consider the colors and textures. A subject in a bright red dress might not work well against a wall of bright pink flowers.
* Has appropriate light: Backlighting, sidelighting, or open shade can drastically change the mood. Be aware of how the light interacts with the background.
* Is clean and uncluttered: Remove distracting elements like trash, stray branches, or other people if possible. Even a small detail can ruin an otherwise great shot.
II. Location Scouting and Exploration
* Explore your area: Don't just go to the same park every time. Look for new and interesting locations. Consider:
* Parks and Gardens: Classic choice for a reason. Look for interesting trees, flowerbeds, paths, and architectural features.
* Urban Environments: Brick walls, alleyways, murals, and interesting buildings can add an edgy or modern feel.
* Fields and Open Spaces: Great for creating a sense of vastness and freedom. Look for fields of wildflowers, tall grass, or rolling hills.
* Waterfronts: Lakes, rivers, oceans, and ponds offer beautiful reflections and open skies.
* Industrial Areas: Abandoned factories, warehouses, and railway tracks can provide a unique and gritty aesthetic (make sure you have permission if necessary).
* Your Own Backyard/Neighborhood: Don't overlook the potential of your immediate surroundings.
* Use online tools:
* Google Maps/Earth: Use satellite view to find potential locations and street view to get a better idea of the environment.
* Instagram/Flickr: Search for hashtags related to your location to see what other photographers have found.
* Location scouting apps: Some apps are specifically designed to help photographers find great locations.
* Local photography groups: Connect with other photographers and ask for recommendations.
* Scout at different times of day: The same location can look completely different depending on the light. The "golden hour" (the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset) is generally considered the best time for outdoor portraits, as the light is soft and warm. But don't rule out other times.
* Make a mood board: Collect images of backgrounds you like and use them as inspiration when scouting.
III. Technical Considerations
* Aperture and Depth of Field: A wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8, f/1.8) will create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and making your subject stand out. A narrow aperture (e.g., f/8, f/11) will keep more of the background in focus, which can be useful if you want to show the environment.
* Focal Length: Longer focal lengths (e.g., 85mm, 135mm) compress the background, making it appear closer to the subject and creating a shallower depth of field. Shorter focal lengths (e.g., 35mm, 50mm) show more of the environment and create a wider perspective.
* Composition: Use compositional techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry to create visually appealing images.
* Background Separation: Use distance to separate your subject from the background. The farther away the background is, the more blurred it will be.
* Lighting:
* Backlighting: Position your subject with the sun behind them, creating a soft, ethereal glow. Use a reflector to bounce light back onto their face.
* Sidelighting: Position your subject with the sun to the side, creating dramatic shadows and highlights.
* Open Shade: Look for areas where the sun is blocked by trees or buildings, creating soft, even light.
* Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and make your subject squint.
IV. Specific Background Ideas and Considerations
* Walls:
* Brick walls: Classic and versatile. Look for interesting textures and colors.
* Painted walls: Can add a pop of color or a unique design element. Murals are fantastic options.
* Textured walls: Concrete, stone, or stucco can add visual interest.
* Avoid: Plain, boring walls with no texture or color.
* Trees and Foliage:
* Forests: Can create a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
* Individual trees: Look for trees with interesting shapes or textures. Weeping willows are great.
* Flowers and gardens: Add color and beauty to your portraits.
* Avoid: Overly cluttered foliage that distracts from the subject. Trees directly behind the subject's head.
* Water:
* Lakes and oceans: Offer beautiful reflections and open skies.
* Rivers and streams: Create a sense of movement and tranquility.
* Fountains: Can add a touch of elegance.
* Avoid: Murky or polluted water. Distracting reflections.
* Urban elements:
* Buildings: Look for interesting architecture or textures.
* Alleys: Can create a gritty and edgy feel.
* Stairs and bridges: Add depth and dimension.
* Avoid: Overly crowded or dirty areas.
V. Tips for Success
* Communicate with your subject: Let them know what kind of background you're looking for and why.
* Don't be afraid to experiment: Try different angles, compositions, and settings to see what works best.
* Move around: Sometimes a small change in perspective can make a big difference.
* Have a backup plan: If the weather doesn't cooperate or your chosen location is unavailable, have a backup location in mind.
* Edit your photos carefully: Use editing software to enhance the colors and tones of your background and make your subject stand out.
* Practice, practice, practice: The more you shoot, the better you'll become at finding great backgrounds.
By following these tips, you can find great backgrounds for your outdoor portraits and create stunning images that your subjects will cherish for years to come. Good luck and happy shooting!