Time to get some fresh air! Going outdoors to shoot portraits can be a truly invigorating experience. New locations, changing light conditions and colours can really add to a portrait.

Here are a few tips to help get you the best results. Control the background - Try not to concentrate just on the subject being photographed. Think critically about the background. Does it add or detract from the portrait? Does it tell you more about the person you are shooting, for example a place of work, or does it compete for your attention? Are there objects which interfere with your subject such as trees, pylons or other objects? Try to avoid busy or complex backgrounds as minimalism is often more effective. Avoid chaotic scenes and linear patterns which compete for attention. Ask yourself if the background colours complement your subject. Frame your shot and then decide whether you want the background in focus (by picking a small aperture, low f-stop) or if you want to isolate your subject (by picking a wide aperture, high f-stop). If in doubt you should set your camera to a large aperture size which will isolate the subject from the background.

Select your lens/focal length – Try to use a fixed focal length lens as they are generally better quality and can give pin sharp images. Picking a longer focal length lens, say 90mm, will let you get close to the subject without being intrusive. Your model is less likely to feel intimidated and self conscious. Picking a wide angle lens, e.g. 24mm, means you have to get in much closer and the difference in perspective can be less flattering.

Watch your focus, angle and composition – Focus on the model correctly and not the background. Focus on the eyes. Ideally use spot focusing to make sure you get it right. Getting down low to or shooting from above the subject can add interest to a shot. Consider all angles.

Look for candid moments – Only capture laughter and smiles if spontaneous. If you point a camera at someone their natural response is to smile. By all means take a picture but then ask them to look serious and take another shot. The serious shot will often be the more powerful one.

Consider light conditions - Avoid strong light on the subject – try to avoid getting both strong direct light on your model’s face and ensure lighting is even. Avoid flash, though occasionally ‘fill-in’ flash can help if the lighting is from the rear of the model. I love shooting portraits on bright but cloudy days when the diffuse light can really complement skin tones. Avoid bright highlights in the background. Shoot near to dawn or dusk when sunlight isn’t so strong. Use shafts of light to add drama to a scene.

Having listed some do’s and don’ts remember to have fun, experiment and once you have mastered them, try breaking the rules.

This week’s tutorial was written by user Swissrolli (Alain Rolli)