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How to Choose the Right Portrait Shooting Scene for Stunning Canvas Prints in Australia

How to Choose the Right Portrait Shooting Scene for Stunning Canvas Prints in Australia

When it comes to turning your photos into beautiful canvas prints Australia, the scene you choose for your portrait photography can make all the difference. Whether you're capturing a family moment, a special event, or a creative portrait, the setting plays a pivotal role in how the final image will look on canvas. Choosing the right portrait shooting scene can enhance your photo's aesthetic, add emotional depth, and elevate your canvas prints Australia. In this blog, we'll explore how to select the perfect backdrop for your portraits, taking into account lighting, mood, location, and style.

1. Understand the Mood You Want to Convey

The first step in choosing the right shooting scene is to think about the mood or emotion you want your portrait to convey. A professional portrait in a studio may communicate sophistication, while a relaxed outdoor scene can evoke feelings of warmth, nostalgia, or freedom. The background should complement the emotion of the subject, allowing it to shine without overpowering the main focus.

For example, a beach scene with soft lighting might work perfectly for a laid-back, summer-themed canvas print. On the other hand, a more industrial setting with exposed brick can add a contemporary, edgy feel to your image.

Tip: Before shooting, take time to visualize how you want your portrait to come across on canvas. This way, you can choose a backdrop that will enhance the mood and not detract from the subject.

2. Choose Locations that Enhance the Subject

When selecting your shooting location, consider how it interacts with the subject of the portrait. Locations that offer interesting textures, colors, and contrasts can elevate the image. For example, a nature reserve or botanical garden can provide lush greenery, which pairs well with natural light to create a serene, peaceful portrait.

Alternatively, urban settings with architecture, graffiti, or other artistic elements can make for a vibrant, energetic backdrop. These types of locations can add an artistic flair to your photo, making it perfect for larger canvas prints or as a striking focal point in your home.

Tip: Choose a location that doesn't compete with the subject but rather complements it. The goal is to create a cohesive composition that draws attention to the subject while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the portrait.

3. Consider Lighting and Its Impact on Your Canvas Prints

Lighting is arguably the most important element when it comes to portrait photography. It sets the mood and tone of the image, and the right lighting can make or break the portrait. Natural light, such as the golden hour just before sunset, provides a soft, flattering glow that works well in most outdoor settings.

Indoor scenes benefit from controlled lighting. Studio lighting allows for flexibility and precision, helping you highlight specific features of the subject and create a polished, professional look. However, harsh or overly bright lighting can wash out the details and reduce the quality of the final image, especially on canvas.

Tip: Aim for soft, diffused light for a more natural and flattering result. Avoid direct, harsh lighting that can create unflattering shadows.

4. Think About the Size and Scale of Your Canvas Prints

The scale of your portrait will influence the backdrop you choose. For larger canvas prints, you may want a scene that has elements of depth and dimension, such as long, open landscapes or rooms with interesting architectural features. These backdrops can help create a sense of space, making the portrait feel more grand and expansive when printed on a larger canvas.

Smaller prints, on the other hand, may benefit from simpler, more focused backgrounds that won’t distract from the subject. A clean, minimalistic backdrop can work wonders for smaller canvas prints, ensuring that the subject remains the focal point of the piece.

Tip: When choosing a scene for large canvas prints, look for wide-open spaces or detailed environments that complement the expansive nature of the canvas. For smaller portraits, opt for intimate, focused settings.

5. Location Accessibility and Practicality

While it's tempting to choose a stunning, far-off location for your portrait shoot, you must also consider practicality. The location should be easily accessible for both you and the subject, and the environment should be conducive to the style of portrait you're aiming for. For example, shooting in a crowded or noisy environment may lead to distractions, making it difficult to focus on the subject.

Additionally, outdoor locations require an understanding of the weather, especially if you're shooting in a location that experiences harsh conditions. It’s important to plan ahead, consider seasonal changes, and be prepared for any potential challenges.

Tip: Always have a backup location in case of unexpected weather or other disruptions. Consider the ease of access, comfort, and convenience when selecting your location.

6. Use Props to Enhance the Scene

Props can be a fantastic way to add personal flair to your portraits and tie the scene together. Whether it’s a vintage car, a floral arrangement, or even a simple chair, props can help tell the story of the portrait and make the shooting scene feel more dynamic.

For example, a portrait of a couple can be enhanced with a rustic picnic setup, creating a romantic, outdoorsy vibe. Or, a child’s portrait can include colorful balloons or a playful toy to add an element of whimsy.

Tip: Choose props that are relevant to the subject’s personality or the story you’re trying to tell. Keep them subtle to avoid taking attention away from the subject.

7. Editing and Post-Processing for Canvas Prints

After the portrait shoot, editing can further refine the image, ensuring the scene and subject are perfectly balanced. Post-processing allows you to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and crop the image for the best composition. It’s important to ensure that the final image is of high quality, especially when it comes to printing on canvas.

Tip: Keep in mind that canvas prints can sometimes enhance the details in a photo. When editing, aim to preserve the texture and quality of the image, as it will be displayed prominently on the wall.


Choosing the right portrait shooting scene for your canvas prints Australia is essential in creating a stunning final piece. Whether you’re aiming for a soft, romantic vibe or a bold, contemporary portrait, the backdrop plays a crucial role in setting the tone. By carefully considering lighting, location, scale, and mood, you can ensure that your portrait photography is perfectly suited for a beautiful canvas print that enhances your home or office decor.

If you’re ready to turn your portrait into a beautiful canvas print, browse our collection at Custom Canvas Online Australia and discover the endless possibilities for your artwork.

5th Oct 2018 CanvasCraftsman

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