Mastering Your Halloween Photography

Spooky and sweet, the Halloween celebration is fast approaching.

So, take out your camera to capture the scariest moments.

Chilling Portraits

For Halloween, everyone dresses up and puts on makeup to be scary. Take the opportunity to take frightening photos, in portrait mode. Don't hesitate to use a close-up shot to capture the nuances of sophisticated makeup. You may also decide to focus on the costume, either as a whole or on a particularly terrifying detail. When photographing your subject, make extensive use of low-angle shots. This will give them an even more anxious aspect.

Scary Pumpkins

The star of Halloween is, of course, the pumpkin! Once hollowed out, we carve out bulging eyes and an exaggerated mouth.

But for a truly terrifying rendering, make sure to light them well. Do not hesitate to place several candles inside. Because this way, you will get a perfectly terrifying chiaroscuro. Then place your pumpkins in a rather dark setting. By choosing your background well, you will create a disturbing atmosphere: gnarled branches standing out against the twilight will be perfect. Think of photographing your pumpkins from a low angle or from 3/4 perspective. Because this will accentuate the shadows.

Photograph at Dusk

For an even more dreadful atmosphere, it is advised to take your photos at dusk. The dark hues of the sky will enhance the dramatic effect of your snaps.

Of course, you will turn off the flash of your camera. Activate the portrait or night landscape modes to increase sensitivity and exposure time. Think also about using a tripod since the opening time of your lens will be greater. There's no question of motion; stabilize your camera well. Take advantage of the last light of day to take a few backlit silhouette shots. Alternate between posed photos and photos in motion.

The Candy Hunt

When children show up at your door asking for candy, do not hesitate to surprise them (but not too much) to capture their expressions of fear! This element of surprise will surely produce some very beautiful photos. Obviously, an accomplice will be necessary, if only to open the door while you are ready to shoot. Be vigilant and quick to capture the moment when the light from the house will illuminate your subjects. To avoid motion, use a tripod here as well.