“Realism” serves as the cornerstone of my portrait photography, and I typically strive to craft authentic, textured images by focusing on these key elements:
1. **Natural Colors**
There’s something magical about the green hues found in nature. Positioning a subject within a wooden cabin not only enriches the composition but also preserves an organic, unforced feel. The tone of a photograph isn’t solely dictated by post-processing—it begins with thoughtful location selection. Coordinating colors harmoniously during scouting ensures that every shot feels grounded in reality.
2. **A Touch of Storytelling**
To bring life to portraits, I incorporate simple props like flowers or glass bottles to construct a “scene.” Imagine a young woman gazing at blossoms under the golden afternoon sun. These subtle narratives give subjects purposeful actions, eliminating the need for stiff, unnatural poses. It’s all about creating fluidity and connection.
3. **Light and Shadow: Evoking Emotion**
In photography, light reigns supreme. I’m partial to soft, diffused illumination, which is why I often schedule shoots around 4 PM. At this time, sunlight warms and angles beautifully, streaming into rooms and adding depth. Backlighting and side-backlighting are my go-to techniques, infusing each image with an atmospheric quality that highlights the subject’s emotions.
4. **Preserving Skin Texture**
Realistic skin texture captivates viewers, drawing them deeper into the story. Think of cinematic characters whose raw textures make their emotions believable and relatable. This principle guides my approach to portraiture, ensuring authenticity in every frame.
Recently, I’ve fallen in love with the Nikon Z5II—a compact powerhouse perfectly suited for female photographers. Its lightweight design makes capturing backlit scenes and moody compositions effortless, while its precise autofocus never misses a beat. What truly excites me, though, is how flawlessly it renders skin texture—exactly the result I aim for!
📷: Nikon Z5II + 50mm F1.4
Color scheme filter: Color Mode Green 01b
Zachary Ruiz 
Miles Holt 
Paul Miller