Portrait Photography Styles Explained

When hiring a photographer, you don't just want to go with anyone. Each photographer will specialize in a niche and favor a specific style when they shoot. If you want something more traditional, you wouldn't want a photographer that prefers to shoot documentary-styled shoots; this is an often-overlooked factor when hiring the right photographer. Understanding the different styles will help you better when looking for your perfect photographer.

The Basic Styles of Portrait Photography

• Traditional

Traditional portraits are classic images with the main subjects poised and fully aware of the camera. They can be formal for more professional images or informal for seniors, kids, or headshot portraits.

• Environmental

These types of portraits are the most common for business professionals. Environmental portrait photography captures the person in their natural environment. Whether in the kitchen of a restaurant, behind the desk at the office, or in a large forest. These images are planned out and often staged to allow the surroundings to enhance a characteristic of the main subject.

• Candid

Candid portraits are taken at the moment and are similar to journalistic shooting. Typically, the subject must be made aware of being taken with little to no interference from the photographer. Candid portraits are often typical during events or weddings. These images capture the more natural emotions of the subject and surroundings.

• Glamour

Glamour portraits are more stylized, focusing on the subject's physical appearance. These images usually have a team and various lighting setups and equipment. Glamour shots tend to give off a more romantic appeal.

• Lifestyle

Lifestyle is the most common type of portrait for editorials, fashion, family, engagement, and weddings. These portraits capture the sense of living style of the subjects. Lifestyle portraits can often combine other styles like environment and candid.