Authentic Portraits

by Chris Orwig
Authentic Portraits cover
Good Books rating 4.28
Art, Design, and Photography
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Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 5988
  • Added: 2025-10-29
  • Updated: 2025-10-30
  • ISBN: 9781681983486
  • Publisher: Rocky Nook, Inc.
  • Published: 2019-09-06
  • Reviews: 4

Authentic Portraits by Chris Orwig goes beyond the technical aspects of photography to explore the deeper connection between the photographer and the subject. It emphasizes curiosity, empathy, and kindness as the key ingredients to creating portraits that reveal the inner essence of a person. Orwig discusses the fundamentals of lighting, focus, and composition, but also delves into personal development and creative collaboration, arguing that who you are as a person directly impacts your photography./n/nThe book is not just about taking better photographs; it's about becoming a better person. Orwig encourages readers to embrace mystery, practice gratitude, and understand the importance of empathy. By cultivating your own inner light, you can bring out the best in your subjects and create work of lasting significance. Filled with insight and inspiration, Authentic Portraits is a journey towards finding your vision and voice in photography and life.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-10-30
excellent 4.60

The book is described as a favorite, combining instruction, memoir, philosophy, and encouragement. It is seen as a comprehensive guide to both photography and personal development.

This reviewer absolutely loves the book, highlighting its unique blend of instructional content, personal memoir, and philosophical insights. They find it to be the most comprehensive and encouraging work by the author. The book is praised for its ability to inspire photographers to not only improve their technical skills but also to grow as individuals. The personal stories and philosophical reflections add depth and make the book more relatable and engaging.

Quick quotes

    This book is my absolute favorite thing Chris has done!

    It simultaneously has elements of instruction, memoir, philosophy, and lots of encouragement.

    A comprehensive guide to both photography and personal development.

Photography Life · 2024-01-02
masterful 4.30

The book is celebrated for its masterful approach to portrait photography. It is noted for its unique combination of skill and soul.

This review praises the book for its unique approach to portrait photography, highlighting the author's ability to capture not just the technical aspects but also the emotional depth of the subject. The reviewer appreciates how the book goes beyond the surface level of photography to explore the deeper meaning behind each portrait. They also note that the book is suitable for both beginners and experienced photographers, offering valuable insights and practical tips.

Quick quotes

    What makes the book special isn't just the skill of the photographer, it's the masterful and soulful approach.

    It's a unique combination of technical skill and emotional depth.

    The book offers valuable insights and practical tips for both beginners and experienced photographers.

Beginner Photography Podcast · 2021-02-22
honest 4.20

The book is praised for its honest and personal approach to portrait photography. It is noted for its emphasis on creating better portraits and becoming a better person.

This review highlights the book's honest and personal approach to portrait photography. The reviewer appreciates how the book emphasizes the importance of creating better portraits and becoming a better person. They note that the book is not just about technical skills but also about personal growth and self-discovery. The reviewer also praises the book for its practical advice and philosophical insights, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in portrait photography.

Quick quotes

    An honest and personal book about creating better portraits and becoming your best self.

    The most successful portraits take us well beyond the surface of how things look.

    It's about finding and becoming your best self.

Shoot Philly · 2020-08-06
good 4.00

The book is noted for its emphasis on capturing the essence of the subject rather than just technical aspects. It is considered a valuable resource for photographers.

This review highlights the book's focus on capturing the character and essence of the subject, rather than just the technical aspects of photography. The reviewer appreciates the practical advice and the deeper philosophical insights provided. The book is seen as a valuable resource for photographers looking to create more meaningful and authentic portraits. The emphasis on curiosity, empathy, and kindness is noted as a key takeaway, making the book not just about photography but also about personal growth.

Quick quotes

    Taking a really good portrait photo is not as easy as you think.

    The book teaches us how to capture the subject's character, essence, soul, story, and life.

    A valuable resource for photographers looking to create more meaningful portraits.

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