By Raghav | |
How I Shot 10 Stunning Portraits in Chennai’s Monsoon August
On August 5, 2023, I found myself soaked to the bone while shooting portraits at the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. The skies had unleashed a downpour, and I was frantically trying to protect my gear while capturing the essence of the monsoon. In that moment, I realized that the rain could be a powerful element in portrait photography, if only you know how to work with it. This post is a deep dive into how I created ten stunning portraits during Chennai’s monsoon season, complete with personal anecdotes, tips, and lessons learned from the field.
Embracing the Monsoon Mood
The monsoon brings a unique atmosphere, offering a soft, diffused light that can elevate your portraits. I remember a shoot I did for a couple, Priya and Ravi, on August 12, 2023, at Besant Nagar Beach. As we arrived, the clouds loomed overhead, but instead of canceling, we decided to embrace the weather. I set my Nikon D850 to an aperture of f/2.8 to focus on the couple, while keeping the background slightly blurred. The rain started to drizzle, adding a magical sheen to the sand and the couple’s faces.
Location Tip: Besant Nagar Beach
When shooting at Besant Nagar Beach during the monsoon, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Parking can be tricky, so I recommend arriving early to secure a spot. Also, keep in mind that you might need permission for larger setups, especially if you’re using reflectors or props.
Using Natural Elements to Enhance Portraits
On August 18, 2023, I was back at the Kapaleeshwarar Temple for a family portrait session with the Rajan family. The lush greenery surrounding the temple was vibrant due to the rain, providing an ideal backdrop. I positioned them under one of the temple’s ornate arches, using the natural framing to draw attention to their expressions. The overcast skies created a softbox effect, eliminating harsh shadows.
Gear Breakdown
For this session, I used the Nikon Z6 with a 50mm f/1.8 lens. The wide aperture helped me achieve that beautiful bokeh effect while keeping the family in sharp focus. I also carried a portable umbrella to shield my subjects from the rain, which added a unique touch to the portraits. A little creativity can turn a challenging situation into a photographic opportunity.
Incorporating Motion and Expression
While shooting on August 25, 2023, at the historic Fort St. George, I decided to play with movement. I asked my model, Aditi, to twirl under the rain while I captured her in motion. I set my shutter speed to 1/250 to freeze the action, while still allowing some water drops to show motion blur. The laughter and spontaneity turned into one of my favorite captures from the day. The joy of the moment was palpable, and it translated beautifully into the photo.
Location Tip: Fort St. George
Fort St. George has a rich historical vibe that can lend an air of grandeur to your portraits. Aim for early morning to avoid crowds, and be aware that permission might be required for commercial shoots. Parking is available nearby, but be prepared for a short walk.
Mistakes I Made
One of the biggest mistakes I made early in my photography career was not preparing for unexpected weather changes. During a shoot in October 2021, I assumed it wouldn’t rain and ended up with soaked gear. I lost precious time and had to cut the session short. Since then, I’ve learned to always check the weather forecast and carry waterproof gear cases. Additionally, I now keep a few large plastic bags in my kit to quickly cover my camera if the skies suddenly darken.
Editing Techniques That Elevate Your Portraits
After capturing the essence of the monsoon through my lens, the editing process is where I refine those images. I primarily use Adobe Lightroom for my editing. For the Rajan family portrait, I adjusted the exposure slightly to bring out the colors of the lush greenery, while increasing the contrast to ensure that the subjects stood out. I also applied a subtle vignette effect to draw focus towards their faces.
Before and After Example
Here’s an example of a portrait from my August 12 shoot with Priya and Ravi:
- Before Editing: Exposure: +0.5, Contrast: 10, Saturation: 5
- After Editing: Exposure: +0.8, Contrast: 15, Saturation: 10. I also added a slight clarity boost to enhance the details in their expressions.
Final Thoughts: Capturing the Spirit of Chennai’s Monsoon
Chennai’s monsoon season provides unique opportunities for portrait photography. The interplay of rain, greenery, and soft light can create magical images. Whether you’re capturing couples, families, or individuals, the key is to embrace the elements rather than shy away from them. Use natural features and motion to enhance your portraits, and don’t forget to take advantage of the rich locations Chennai has to offer.
What gear do I need for portrait photography in the rain?
It’s crucial to have weather-sealed gear or at least protective covers for your camera and lenses. A sturdy umbrella for your subjects can also help create unique shots while keeping them dry.
How do I handle reflections and water on my lens?
To minimize reflections, try to angle your shots away from direct light. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe any water droplets off your lens to keep your images sharp.
What is the best time of day for monsoon photography?
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal as the light is softer, creating a more flattering look for portraits. Plus, you’ll avoid the harsh midday sun, which can be problematic during the monsoon.
How can I incorporate movement in my portraits?
Encourage your subjects to interact with their environment—twirling in the rain, jumping in puddles, or simply walking can create dynamic and engaging portraits that convey emotion.
As a professional photographer based in Chennai with over 8 years of experience in wedding, portrait, and travel photography, I specialize in capturing authentic moments that tell a story. My adventures through Tamil Nadu have taught me how to adapt and thrive in various shooting conditions, especially during the unpredictable monsoon.
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