Mastering Portrait Photography

Mastering Portrait Photography: The Definitive Guide for Photographers, newly updated by Paul Wilkinson and Sarah Plater, sets out to guide readers through this intricate balance with a clear, structured approach that’s ideal for those at the start of their portrait journey.

This new edition refreshes one of Ammonite Press’ bestselling titles, offering an accessible overview of the fundamentals: composition, exposure, lighting, posing and post-production. Wilkinson and Plater write with clarity and enthusiasm, emphasizing that great portraits are created through patience, empathy and a genuine interest in people.

The book’s strength lies in how it breaks down the essentials of portraiture into digestible sections. Beginners will find plenty of practical advice here, from choosing the best portrait lens and light source to directing a subject naturally and building rapport.

Ultimately, this is a book for photographers who are learning the ropes or refining their early technique. It’s about mastering its classic building blocks that help you feel confident before moving on to develop your own style.

* Digital Camera World *

Wilkinson and Plater have plenty of advice on how to get the best from a subject, from formal adult portraits to lively children captures – as well as offering masses of technical know-how, and tips and hints to back it up.

* Black + White Photography magazine *

If ever a book deserved a hard cover and long future of reprint runs, it must be the new Ammonite Press title Mastering Portrait Photography… It’s just a blow-by-blow reference study. You can open it at any spread and learn something.

* Master Photographer magazine *

Updated edition of this practical guide to creating professional portraits by two award-winning photographers. Packed with tips on everything from equipment and lighting to composition, working in the studio and on location.

* Black + White Photography magazine *

Paul Wilkinson is a multi-award winning portrait and wedding photographer, partner photographer to chef Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, and the Crazy Bear Group. He was voted Master Photographers Association UK Bridal Image of the Year 2014, and UK Lifestyle and Location Portrait Photographer of the Year 2014. His stylish, relaxed and personal images have resulted in him becoming one of the leading photographers in the country.

Sarah Plater began experimenting with film photography over 15 years ago, transitioning to digital as it became more affordable. She then spent three years working at a high street photography studio, before leaving to concentrate on natural light portraiture. She has written for several popular photography magazines.