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How understanding behaviour improves your photography

Encounter on the street in the snow

As a photographer, understanding human behaviour is critical to capturing compelling images. Emotions, gestures, expressions, and body language all reveal insights into human behaviour, and our practice as photographers is to capture these nuances.

To anticipate moments, one must be acutely aware of body language and expressions. We can create a comfortable environment by getting to know our subjects. You can also offer guidance if this does not interfere with your objective. The goal is to capture authentic and natural images that resonate with viewers.

Creating relatable images is essential to the craft of photography. To do so, we must consider the emotions and experiences of our audience and tailor our images accordingly. This personal touch can help create powerful images that connect with viewers on a deeper level.

Understanding human behaviour is essential to the art of photography. Observing and studying behaviours can help you create images that capture the essence of the human experience.
So let's look at how you can put this into practice.

Tony’s dog watches while he relaxes and smokes.

Anticipating moments

Anticipating moments is an important aspect of understanding human behaviour. A photographer attuned to human behaviour can recognise when a subject is about to make a gesture, smile or laugh or when they are about to cry. Being able to anticipate these moments will help you capture a photo that evokes emotion in the viewer.

You must observe the subject and know their body language and expressions to anticipate moments. This can help you anticipate moments when your subject is likely to be more relaxed and comfortable.

Togetherness. Ladies on the way to the shop.

Creating relatable images

Understanding human behaviour can help photographers create images that are more relatable to their audience. People are naturally drawn to images that capture authentic moments and emotions. By understanding human behaviour, a photographer can create images that connect with their audience on a deeper level, making the viewer feel as though they are part of the moment captured in the photo.

To create relatable images, you need to consider the emotions and experiences that your audience can relate to. This requires understanding your audience's demographic, interests, and experiences. Tailoring your images to your audience will ensure your pictures resonate with them on a personal level.

Sweeney, with his catch of the day

Creating a comfortable environment

Many people feel self-conscious when being photographed, and a photographer who understands human behaviour can help put their subjects at ease. Creating a comfortable environment by talking to them and getting to know them better enables you to capture more authentic and natural expressions, resulting in more impactful images.

Build a rapport with your subject as quickly as possible to help them feel more confident and comfortable in front of the camera.

A couple I met in Japan posed for a portrait.

Summary

Understanding human behaviour is crucial for photographers who want to create compelling and impactful images. By anticipating moments, creating relatable images, and creating a comfortable environment for their subjects, photographers can capture powerful images that connect with their audience on a deeper level. As a photographer, studying and observing human behaviour is vital to improve your craft and create truly memorable images.

Thanks for reading. Please comment, like and share if you found the above useful and interesting.

Paul


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