Let's Talk Portrait Photography

Art Journal Page (Shooting Portraits)

One of my goals for this year has been to take more portraits. My photography in the past has focused on sports action, sports portraits and travel photography. I have always admired portrait photographers but have thought it was probably beyond my skills. Lately, as I've become more confident, I'm beginning to feel ready for the challenge. I don't want to get lights and have a portrait studio in my house. I'm more interested in location (especially outdoor) and "lifestyle" portraits. I particularly admire Tara Whitney's approach to photography. You can see some Tara-like shots I took in this post and my attempt at location portraits in this post. My favorite portrait shoot I've done was this one of special needs baseball players.  I just signed up for this portrait class, and I'm really excited about it.  Our first assignment was to do a self-portrait.  Here's my best shot:

It was a little difficult to get a really crisp focus. I learned a lot about trying to get a natural look on my face. It took me lots of expressions and poses before I got this one. I think that will be useful information next time I go to take someone else's portrait. It's in my studio. 

So, I'm interested in your thoughts on portrait photography. Do you do it? What's your style? Got any great resources to share? Any portrait photographers you admire?