How To Take Portraits
Photography basics
First Step: Get info
Figure out how the photo should look
If its a sports photo figure out and ask if they need to wear their uniform or something in specific
Is it just a portrait or a COB? this needs to be known so you know what background to use
If its a COB try to get a background that contrast the person.
If its just a portrait try to get a cool little background
(my fav is a brick wall as the background)
Second Step: Lighting
Make sure your lighting is well balanced
If the skin color of the person is more on the fair side adjust your camera settings so that the person doesn't come out reflecting the sun and looking absolutely white.
If they have more tan-dark skin once again adjust your settings so that they don't come out too dark where you cant recognize their key features.
(open the window blinds if needed. Natural lighting is gorgeous)
Third Step: Focus
Make sure your focus is really crisp and nothing comes out looking blurry
If this is difficult to you switch your settings to Auto-Focus
Try to hold the camera very steady and if available use a tripod
Final Step: Take the shot
Take the photo as best as you can and take a couple of the person doing different poses so that the people making the spread have options to choose from.
Make sure to ask the yearbook staff where they want the photos uploaded so that they can easily access them.