Ansel Adams said we don’t take a photograph; we “make” a photograph. In other words, we make deliberate decisions to create the best shot. Using a wide aperture (low f-stop) for making portraits softens the background, allowing us to focus on the subject. This is especially useful for candids where we have less control over the background.

Greg sits downtown making unique walking sticks that he then gives away. (We have one!) I asked for a few quick shots, setting my camera to Aperture Priority mode to reduce the distractions behind him. It makes him the star. 

What photo will you “make” today? If you have a willing portrait subject (human or animal), widen your aperture and see the difference it “makes.”