Top 10 Best Portrait Photography Books to Read in 2024

“Annie Leibovitz at Work” is a masterclass in portrait photography from one of the most celebrated photographers of our time. In this book, you’ll delve deep into Leibovitz’s iconic portraits, gaining insight into their cultural significance and the stories behind each shot.

You’ll discover her innovative and often unconventional approach to portraiture, which has set her apart in the world of photography. Not only will you see her remarkable images, but you’ll also get a glimpse into her creative process, allowing you to glean lessons from Leibovitz’s unparalleled artistic vision. It’s a must-read if you’re looking to understand the depth and artistry behind some of the most memorable portraits of our era.

Dive deep into the world of portrait photography with this comprehensive guide by Paul Wilkinson and Sarah Plater. This book is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering insights into every aspect of portrait photography. From understanding the nuances of lighting to mastering the art of posing, this book covers it all.

Wilkinson and Plater, both seasoned photographers, share their expertise and experiences, providing readers with practical tips and techniques. They delve into the intricacies of working with subjects, ensuring that every portrait captures the essence and personality of the individual. With a perfect blend of technical know-how and artistic insights, this book is a must-have for anyone serious about mastering portrait photography.

Bryan Peterson, a renowned name in the world of photography, brings forth a guide that simplifies the complexities of portrait photography. This book is a masterclass in understanding the fundamentals of capturing stunning portraits. Peterson’s approach is holistic, focusing not just on the technical aspects but also on the emotional connection between the photographer and the subject.

Through this book, you will learn the importance of composition, lighting, and perspective in portrait photography. Peterson also shares invaluable tips on how to make subjects feel at ease, ensuring that their true personalities shine through in the photographs. With a plethora of examples and case studies, this book offers a hands-on approach to mastering the art of portrait photography.

Chris Knight’s “Dramatic Portrait” is a deep dive into the world of portrait lighting. It’s not just about placing lights and shooting; it’s about understanding how light and shadow play together to create depth and emotion. This is probably one of my all-time favourites. I really like the “dramatic” low-key feel in portraits. His Rembrandt light setup. I’ve also watched his online class on Creative Live: Exploring Low-Key Portraiture.

Knight’s approach is methodical, blending artistic vision with technical know-how. He covers everything from basic setups to more advanced techniques. The book also delves into the psychology of lighting, helping photographers understand the mood and emotion each lighting setup can evoke. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to craft portraits that resonate and tell a story.

Rossella Vanon’s “Lighting People” is a comprehensive guide that demystifies the art of photography when it comes to lighting subjects. Vanon, with her vast experience, shares insights that cater to both beginners and experienced photographers.

The book covers various lighting setups, camera settings, and the nuances of working with different light sources. It’s a practical guide that encourages hands-on learning.

It is a fantastic book! I bought it soon after “Dramatic portrait”. Chris is into fine art, Rosella more beauty and fashion, so both books – lighting styles, tips, complement each other. Definitely worth adding to your collection!

Rossella also shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes, offering a holistic view of the portrait photography world. A lot of great tips on colour and texture in lighting.

Natural light is a gift, and Scott Kelby’s book teaches you how to harness it effectively. This isn’t just another book on photography; it’s a journey through the basics of photography using the most organic light source available.

Kelby’s approach is both instructional and inspirational. He provides real-world scenarios, showcasing how natural light was used to achieve desired results. The book also touches upon the challenges of working with natural light and offers solutions to overcome them. By the end, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for the sun and all its glory.

Nick Fancher challenges the conventional with “Studio Anywhere”. This book proves that a great portrait can be shot anywhere if you have the right vision.

Fancher shares his experiences, offering insights into turning unconventional locations into makeshift studios. He provides readers with a fresh perspective on shooting in challenging environments, emphasizing adaptability and innovation.

The book is filled with practical exercises that encourage photographers to think outside the box. Fancher’s anecdotes, combined with his technical expertise, make this a must-read for those looking to push their creative boundaries.

Mastering Street Photography book is a practical guide to capturing the candid moments that reveal life at its most dramatic, absurd, or beautiful.

Brian Lloyd Duckett, Principal and Course Tutor of the StreetSnappers workshops, presents the techniques that can elevate images of the urban landscape from the ordinary to the extraordinary. He demonstrates how the successful street photographer needs to be an unseen observer, with the camera a mirror of everyday scenes and unaware subjects.

A guide to equipment and technical skills leads to lessons in finding inspiration, developing projects, and composing different subjects and scenes.

The book also addresses such key issues as staying safe and within the law when photographing on the street and the art of building an audience for your images.

Lindsay Adler’s guide stands out as a pivotal resource for anyone passionate about portrait photography. It’s undeniably one of the best books to have if you’re eager to master the art of posing. Adler, celebrated as one of the premier portrait photographers, intricately demystifies the science and art of posing, ensuring every subject, regardless of their body type, is showcased at their absolute best.

She dives deep into the intricacies of body language, the nuances of facial expressions, and the impactful use of flash photography to elevate poses. The book is peppered with real-life examples, making the techniques both relatable and actionable. It’s a thorough guide that promises a well of inspiration, whether you’re framing a solo portrait, a group, or even a dynamic fashion shoot. Having absorbed so much from this book myself, I can vouch for its transformative impact on a photographer’s approach.

If you ever find yourself running out of posing ideas, Mehmet Eygi’s “Pose!” is the resource you need. With a whopping 1,000 poses, this book showcases the breadth and depth of photography poses, ensuring you’re never at a loss during a shoot.

It’s a comprehensive collection of inspiration, perfect for both photographers and models. From casual to formal, candid to staged, this book covers a wide spectrum of photography styles. “Pose!” offers a fresh perspective and a wealth of ideas, making it an invaluable resource to elevate your portrait sessions.

What I particularly like about this book is how Roberto Valenzuela combines his vast experience in both photography and business to provide a comprehensive photography guide. He doesn’t just touch upon portrait posing and lighting; he delves deep into the nitty-gritty of setting up a successful photography business.

From branding and marketing to client relations and pricing, Valenzuela covers it all. He offers insights into learning how to take stunning portrait images while also ensuring you’re financially rewarded for your craft. This book is a must-read for every photographer looking to make a mark in the industry and earn a substantial income from their passion.

Mihaela Noroc’s journey across the globe, capturing portraits of women from diverse backgrounds, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. This book is a celebration of beauty in all its forms, transcending borders, ages, and cultures.

Each portrait in “The Atlas of Beauty” tells a unique story, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us all together. It’s a visual feast that challenges conventional beauty standards and showcases the incredible tapestry of women around the world. A must-have for anyone passionate about portrait photography and the stories behind the faces.

In the age of social media, the ‘selfie’ has become an art form in its own right. Sorelle Amore elevates this art form to new heights in her book. It’s not just about snapping a quick pic for Instagram; it’s about understanding composition, lighting, and mood to create a self-portrait that tells a story.

Sorelle offers insights into creating impactful and meaningful self-portraits, blending the lines between traditional portrait photography and the modern selfie. It’s a fresh, contemporary take on capturing oneself, and it’s bound to inspire photographers to see self-portraiture in a new light.