SUMMARY
Julia Trotti identifies common reasons for flat portraits, emphasizing that solutions lie in pre-shoot and in-shoot decisions rather than equipment. Key factors include strategic focal length selection, thoughtful color coordination between subject and environment, intentional lighting techniques (direct vs. backlight), and encouraging natural subject movement. Trotti illustrates these points using the Canon R5 II and RF lenses, highlighting how different focal lengths like the 135mm and 50mm offer distinct perspectives and how deliberate choices create variety in a portrait series.
TAKEAWAYS
Flat portraits are often caused by choices in focal length, color, light, and subject movement.
Strategic lens selection, such as pairing a 135mm for compression with a 50mm for context, enhances portraits.
Intentional use of color theory and varied lighting (direct and backlight) adds depth and mood.
Encouraging natural subject movement and choosing cameras with a 30-45MP resolution are also key.