Photographing Emotion between Subjects

Twins, Siblings, Couples and Friends

Capturing a portrait photo of two people compared to one person is definitely more difficult - but the result can be breathtaking. Generally what makes these photos so spectacular is the emotion and energy in the image and the noticeable connection between the subjects.

Listed below are some photo tips that you can use when photographing twins, siblings, couples and two friends.

So, what makes a photograph portray emotion?

To me the answer to this question is to use the principles behind basic Body Language skills. These are:

1. Lean In
2. Touch
3. Mirror the other persons emotion
4. Maintain Eye Contact

So let us translate this into photography:

1. Lean In:
   Have twins or couples lean in towards one another, ensuring that siblings heads are close, which portrays intimacy. This is very important.
   Examples:
   For a couple – Stand close together and angle bodies together;
   Photos with a baby - Rather than laying the baby on the lap, go down to the baby’s level, or hold the baby close to your face.
   
   You risk a rather static image if your subjects are facing the camera front on.
   
   

   Photo Tip: Lean In and Keep your Heads Close

   Keep twins heads close

   Life Stories Photography

   Angle your body towards each other.

2. Touch:
   Touch can mean so many different things. The best way to describe this rule is with photos.
   
   
3. Mirror Emotions:
   To mirror emotions, your subjects reflect each others feelings, i.e. both are smiling, laughing or showing love.
   
   

   Photo Tip: Touch and Mirror Emotions

   A Hug and a smile - beautiful

   A touch on the cheek and a Kiss say it all

4. Maintain Eye Contact:
   This is where siblings or twins maintain eye contact with:
   • The photographer
   • Each other
   • A common point in the distance.
   
   Therefore, you may have both subjects looking:
   • At the camera
   • Away in the same direction
   • At each other
   Photos taken in this way can often give the feeling that you have captured a spontaneous or private moment. As you can see you do not always need to have subjects face the camera directly and smile, these photos will often seem staged.
   
   Wedding photos are a classic example of this rule.
   
   

   Photo Tip: Maintain Eye Contact

   Look away in the same direction

   Look at the camera

   Look at each other

Now that you have some beautiful photos, why not incorporate them in a beautiful Photo Album, Family Canvas Print, or Card. We welcome you to browse through our designs. Alternatively, contact us or phone us as we can work together to choose the perfect design.