As you will discover in this magazine, taking great portraits does not require the most extensive camera kit: a modest outfit made up of a camera and 50mm lens is often all you need to take brilliant images. More important is to have a good eye for composition and detail, to choose the right location, knowing the basic techniques of lighting whether it is daylight, flashguns or studioflash and above all, developing strong interpersonal skills with your subject. Do not underestimate this latter point a relaxed, happy subject will always make for better portraits, so ensure you are confident, friendly and have fun while you are taking pictures.