Outdoor headshots are always a great way to present clients with a clean and fresh look. The blurred background- only possible with professional lenses- makes for an interesting setting with the focus being entirely on the eyes.
Capturing outdoor headshots can be a thrilling endeavor, especially when employing softbox lighting. Let’s delve into three crucial aspects to perfect your outdoor portrait game: lens choice, camera settings for a soft background, and utilizing flash on a softbox.
Choosing the Right Lens
Opt for a prime lens with a wide aperture, such as a 50mm or 85mm, for outdoor headshots. These lenses allow ample light to enter, resulting in beautifully blurred backgrounds that accentuate your subject. Prime lenses also offer sharper images, ideal for capturing intricate details in outdoor environments.
Setting Up Your Camera for a Soft Background
To achieve that dreamy, soft background effect, adjust your camera settings accordingly. Start by setting your aperture to its widest possible setting, typically around f/1.8 to f/2.8. This shallow depth of field ensures your subject remains sharply in focus while the background melts into a pleasing blur. Pair this with a lower ISO to minimize noise and maintain image clarity.
Utilizing Flash on a Softbox
In outdoor settings, controlling light becomes paramount for achieving professional-quality headshots. Integrate a softbox with your flash to diffuse harsh sunlight and create soft, flattering illumination on your subject. Position the softbox at a 45-degree angle to the subject, slightly above eye level, to sculpt facial features and minimize shadows. Adjust the flash intensity to balance ambient light and create a natural-looking portrait.
Transitioning seamlessly between these three elements—lens choice, camera settings, and softbox flash—empowers you to capture stunning outdoor headshots with ease. Experiment with different combinations to discover your signature style and unlock the full potential of outdoor portrait photography. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll elevate your outdoor headshot game to new heights.
Even outdoor shots need some light. In this case a softbox and speedlight and a silver reflector to bring out the shadows and catch lights.
Simply using available light is not good enough and the photographer really should slight kisses of off camera light to really bring out the texture in faces. 
