Chapter 6. Oh, the Details
Details can be the difference between a great shot and a shot that makes you say, "Ahhhhh, how could I have missed that little detail?" This chapter is all about reminding you to check out the details before you press the shutter release button.
Watch the Hands
Sometimes, photographers get so caught up with controlling the light that falls on a subject's face that they overlook another important part of a portrait: the subject's hands.
Compare the hands in the top two photographs. In the picture on the right, the subject's right-hand pinky is sticking out in an awkward position. In the picture on the left, the right hand is in a much more flattering position.
Most mothers tell their kids to keep their fingers out of their mouths, but as you can see in the photograph on the bottom left, rules are meant to be broken.
Feet are important, too. Keep an eye on them for a head-to-toe perfect portrait.
Notice the Nails
Details can make or break a picture. This definitely includes fingernails.
In the photograph on the left, the color and reflectivity of the girl's fingernails are distracting. Sure, we could fix the color in Photoshop, but the washed out detail is nearly impossible ...
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