A portrait, also known as a portraiture, is a photo centering on a person or small groups facial expression while they are in a still position. The personality, mood and likeness of the person or group will be presented. Portrait photography does not always have to have just the face in the picture, the whole body and background can be included as well. When taking a portrait photo the person or group is generally looking strait at the camera.

Non-professional models are used for portrait photography, unlike other styles of photography. Some examples of portrait photography are graduations, special events, and weddings and are usually displayed in private homes.

History of Portrait Photography

People have been using portrait photography ever since the camera was invented. It was, and is more inexpensive way then having your portrait painted and it is a more available method. People would sit against a background and were lit with natural light from a window. Portrait photography can now be more creative with the way technology has evolve since they can adjust light and move around more.

Styles

Portrait photographs can be done in a studio where the photographer can adjust the light when capturing portraits. They can change the direction and the intensity. Kicker lights, fill lights, background lights and the main lights are a few of the different lighting terms. The main light is the primary light source.

The main light is generally positioned above or below the subject and at a 45 degree angle. The fill light is used to help eliminate shadows that are created by the main light. The light that brightens up the hair of the subject is the kicker light. This will help to add depth and to show the separation from the subject and the background. A Background light brightens the background and can add effects to the backdrops.