Candid Expressions

Candid Portrait of Cleveland Zoo Gorilla

As the title of my blog suggests, I prefer to shoot unposed subjects.  In fact, I usually advise photographers to take their portrait and people photographs candidly.  I find that you will get more honest, natural expressions that way.  A few days ago, I and thousands of other Cleveland area residents went to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo to see the new Elephant Crossing exhibit.  While there I came upon a sleeping gorilla in a very unflattering position.  After observing him for a few minutes he sat up and occasionally looked in my direction as if to say, “Hey, you looking at me?”  I took several shots, but this is the obviously unposed expression that I liked.  In order to really give your portraits added impact, get close, zoom in, concentrate on the eyes and capture those candid expressions!