Portrait USA - Photography Terms & Glossary

Glossary Of Art Terms [1]

Portrait A portrait is a genre of photography that focuses on capturing the likeness, personality, and character of individuals or groups of people. Portraits often emphasize the facial expressions, gestures, and emotions of the subjects, aiming to convey a sense of intimacy, connection, and identity through the image. Portrait photography can encompass a wide range of styles and approaches, from formal studio portraits with controlled lighting and posing to candid, environmental portraits captured in natural settings or everyday environments.
Portraits may be commissioned for personal, professional, or artistic purposes, including family portraits, senior portraits, corporate headshots, editorial portraits, and fine art portraiture. Successful portrait photography requires a combination of technical skill, interpersonal rapport, and artistic vision to capture authentic and compelling images that resonate with viewers and evoke a sense of empathy, curiosity, or admiration.