In portrait photography, the most powerful images often aren't the ones with perfect poses or flawless lighting—they're the ones that feel real. A soft smile, a spontaneous laugh, or a thoughtful gaze can tell more of a story than any filter ever could.

That's why capturing natural, moving portraits is something we all want to master. Whether we're using a professional camera or just a smartphone, getting authentic expressions is totally doable with a few key tips.

Build a comfortable vibe first

The camera sees more than just a face—it sees energy. If the person we're photographing feels nervous, stiff, or unsure, it shows. So our first job isn't technical—it's emotional. Start with conversation. Ask them about their day. Make a joke. Play music. Get them to move around casually. The goal is to make them forget about the camera.

Even if we only have a few minutes, those first moments of trust and ease can completely change the way someone opens up in front of the lens.

Guide, don't over-pose

Many of us worry too much about exact poses. But too much instruction can lead to stiff, unnatural results. Instead of saying, "tilt your chin exactly this way," we can say, "look over there like you're thinking of your favorite memory," or "try playing with your hair a little." These gentle prompts help people move more naturally and feel less like they're being directed.

The trick is to create motion—walking, turning, leaning, smiling mid-sentence. Small movements lead to more expressive photos.

Use natural light for a softer look

Natural light is a portrait photographer's best friend. It's soft, flattering, and creates a more relaxed atmosphere. Shooting near a window or outdoors during golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) helps avoid harsh shadows and gives skin a natural glow.

If we're indoors, we can use sheer curtains to diffuse the light or bounce it off a wall. Avoid harsh midday sun unless we're shooting in open shade. The more gentle the light, the more genuine the portrait tends to feel.

Focus on the eyes—but not only

Eyes often tell the story in a portrait. A sharp, well-lit gaze draws viewers in. Make sure the eyes are in focus, especially in close-up shots. But don't forget the rest—sometimes a hand gesture, a hair flip, or the curve of a smile can add just as much emotion.

Also, allow room for moments when the subject isn't looking at the camera. Candid glances or looking away can add layers of mood and curiosity to the image.

Capture in-between moments

Some of the best portraits happen between takes—when the subject laughs after a silly comment or sighs with relief after a long pose. Keep shooting even when they think the "real photo" hasn't started yet. These unguarded moments are often the most genuine.

We don't have to wait for perfection—because real emotion is already beautiful as it is.

Make use of backgrounds and props

The right setting adds texture and story to a portrait. A messy bedroom, a cozy café, or a park bench can say a lot about the person. Let them interact with the space naturally—lean against a wall, sit on a step, hold a coffee cup.

Props can also help reduce nervousness. Give them something to hold or do. It keeps their hands busy and their mind off the camera.

Editing with care

When we edit, the goal is to enhance—not erase. Keep skin tones natural, retain eye detail, and don't over-smooth. A little color adjustment or light balancing is enough. What makes a portrait moving is its honesty, not perfection.

Let's photograph with heart

At the end of the day, a beautiful portrait isn't just about sharpness or lighting. It's about capturing a person's essence in that moment. If we make our subject feel seen, comfortable, and confident, we've already succeeded—no matter what camera we use.

So Lykkers, what's your go-to tip for getting a natural-looking photo? Or maybe you have a favorite portrait you've taken that tells a real story—share it with us! Let's celebrate the beauty of being real through photography.