Apr 03 2012 3:10 pm
Article by SASHA GiTiN
This month we continue our focus on portrait photography. Photography of people can be broken down into numerous categories. It is important for photographers to identify separate styles in order to choose the right creative direction for future projects. Being able to understand different styles will also help you to organize existing work in a portfolio. Below is a list of fundamental styles that relate to portrait photography.
1. Traditional portrait.
Traditional or Classical portraiture would refer to an image where face is the predominant element. The purpose of the photograph is to depict visual representation of that person. Subject is expected to be looking directly at the camera. With what is described as a head-shot, two thirds or full body framing can be used.
Photo by Sasha Gitin, Portrait of a Young Woman, 2007
2. Environmental Portrait.
The term Environmental Portrait refers to an image where the subject is photographed in person's natural environment. For example, a worker photographed at the construction zone, teacher in the classroom, sculptor in a sculpture studio and so on. Surroundings are used to compliment the subject and to emphasize his character. Subject and setting are chosen by the photographer.
Photo by Sasha Gitin, Fish Butcher
4. Candid Portrait.
A candid portrait istaken without a subject expecting or acknowledging the photographer. This style used in photo journalism, travel photography, street photography and event photography. As opposed to an environmental portrait this image is captured at the moment rather than set up.
Photo by Jeff Eagar, Lady in Market Vietnam
5. Glamor Portrait.
The term Glamor Portrait refers to portraits where emphasis is given to highlight the sexy romantic appeal of the subject. see : 5 ELEGANT LIGHTING SETUPS FOR MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY
Photo by Nick Carter
6. Lifestyle Portrait
The term Lifestyle Portrait refers to portraits where emphasis is given to suggest the "style of living" of the individuals depicted. Technically it is a combination of environmental portrait and candid portrait. More weight is given to communicate the feeling of life experience of the subject. Style has numerous implications in commercial and fine art photography. Editorial, fashion, pharmaceutical, and food industries often use lifestyle images to evoke emotions in viewers by depiction of desired life styles. It is common to see this style used in wedding and family portrait photography as well.
Photo by Sasha Gitin, Happy Family, 2009
7. Surreal Portrait.
Surreal Portraits are created to emphasize the other reality. A depiction of a person's interpreted subconscious mind. Surrealism is an art movement started in the early 1920's and still alive and well. In photography tricks and special effects are used to achieve a surreal look. VIDEO/ EBOOK: Photography Tricks and Special Effects
Photo by Evan Sharboneau. (LMS contributor and Author of Tricks and Special Effects)
8. Conceptual Portrait.
Conceptual Portrait refers to images where concept adds a fourth dimension. The hidden meaning of the concept will leave the viewer guessing as it is often open for interpretation. Conceptual artists generally get offended when asked what did they mean in their photograph. It is the job of the viewer to decide. Conceptual Portraits are often used in advertising photography but concepts are much easier to understand.
Photo by Constantin Gedal. "Untitled" 2007
9. Abstract Portrait.
Abstract portraits are created with a purpose of creating art and not based on realistic representation of a person. Collage or digital manipulation is often used.
Photo by Sasha Gitin. Portrait of Ura, 1999
Conclusion:
Styles Mentioned In this article are the basic principals of portrait photography. Each style or a combination of any can be applied to numerous categories. For example a wedding photographer can choose to use tradition style vs. candid, or glamor vs. lifestyle.
Next week we will look closely and all the specialty categories of portrait photography. Stay tuned.
What is your style of portrait photography? Post your image and identify your style.
This tutorial was produced by Sasha Gitin and Robert Grant: co-founders of LearnMyShot.com. Sasha is a fabulous Environmental Portrait Photographer shooting for advertising and editorial industries. Robert Grant is a very creative Commercial Photographer shooting advertising and editorial, based in Connecticut. Two humble guys trying to keep you educated and entertained. Connect with us via Facebook & Twitter