A portrait is more than just a picture of a person. It is a captivating and thought-provoking art form that speaks volumes about the subject and the photographer’s skill. Portrait photography is an art form that has been around for centuries, capturing the essence of the human form in all its beauty and complexity. But what exactly classifies as a portrait? In this article, we will explore the intricacies of portrait photography and examine the various elements that contribute to this timeless art form. Join us as we delve into the world of portrait photography and discover what makes a truly captivating portrait.
Defining Portrait Photography
Historical Context of Portrait Photography
Portrait photography has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. The invention of photography in the early 19th century marked the beginning of a new era of portraiture, as people could now capture and preserve their images through photography.
In the early days of photography, portraits were often taken in studios, where photographers used special equipment and techniques to create images that looked like paintings. These early portraits were often posed and formal, with subjects sitting or standing in a specific position.
As photography technology improved, portraits became more natural and spontaneous. Photographers began to use outdoor settings and to capture candid moments, resulting in images that were more authentic and personal.
In the 20th century, portrait photography continued to evolve, with photographers experimenting with new techniques and styles. From black and white to color, from studio to location, portrait photography continued to push the boundaries of what was possible.
Today, portrait photography is a thriving art form, with photographers using a wide range of techniques and styles to create images that capture the essence of their subjects. Whether in a studio or on location, portrait photographers strive to create images that are not only technically excellent but also emotionally powerful and meaningful.
Modern Approaches to Portrait Photography
Portrait photography has evolved significantly over the years, and modern approaches to portraiture have become increasingly diverse and experimental. Today, portrait photographers are not limited to traditional methods and are exploring new ways to capture the essence of their subjects.
One of the most significant changes in modern portrait photography is the increased use of digital technology. Digital cameras and software have allowed photographers to experiment with different lighting techniques, editing styles, and composition methods. This has led to a greater range of creative possibilities, and many photographers are now able to produce highly stylized and expressive portraits.
Another important trend in modern portrait photography is the focus on environmental portraits. These images capture the subject in their natural habitat or surroundings, providing insight into their lifestyle, interests, and personality. Environmental portraits often feature unique and interesting backgrounds that add depth and context to the image.
Social media has also played a significant role in shaping modern approaches to portrait photography. Platforms like Instagram have popularized the use of selfies and self-portraits, and many photographers are now exploring this genre as a means of personal expression. Self-portraits can be a powerful tool for communicating a sense of identity and can be used to convey a wide range of emotions and messages.
In addition to these trends, modern portrait photography is also characterized by a greater focus on diversity and inclusivity. Photographers are increasingly interested in capturing a wide range of subjects, including people of different ages, races, genders, and sexual orientations. This has led to a more diverse and representative body of portrait work, and has helped to challenge traditional notions of beauty and representation.
Overall, modern approaches to portrait photography are characterized by a willingness to experiment and push boundaries. Whether through the use of digital technology, environmental portraits, self-portraits, or a focus on diversity and inclusivity, contemporary portrait photographers are constantly seeking new ways to express themselves and capture the essence of their subjects.
The Elements of a Portrait
Composition
In portrait photography, composition refers to the arrangement of visual elements within the frame. A well-composed portrait is one that effectively conveys the subject’s personality and mood, while also creating a visually pleasing image. The following are some key elements of composition in portrait photography:
Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds is a basic principle of composition that suggests dividing the frame into thirds vertically and horizontally, creating a grid of nine equal parts. The idea is to place the subject at one of the intersection points or along the grid lines, as this creates a more dynamic and visually pleasing image. This technique is used to create balance and tension in the image, drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject.
Leading Lines
Leading lines are lines in the image that lead the viewer’s eye towards the subject. These can be lines in the environment, such as a road or a wall, or they can be created by the placement of the subject within the frame. Leading lines are used to guide the viewer’s eye towards the subject, creating a sense of depth and direction in the image.
Negative Space
Negative space is the empty space around the subject in the image. It is used to create a sense of scale and to draw attention to the subject. Negative space can also be used to create a sense of isolation or to emphasize the subject’s presence in the image. It is important to use negative space carefully, as too much empty space can make the image feel unbalanced.
Framing
Framing refers to the use of elements in the environment to frame the subject. This can be done by placing the subject in the corner of the frame, using natural elements such as trees or architectural features, or by using the shape of the subject itself to create a frame. Framing is used to create a sense of depth and to draw attention to the subject.
By understanding and utilizing these composition techniques, photographers can create portraits that are not only technically sound but also visually engaging and expressive.
Lighting
In portrait photography, lighting plays a crucial role in creating a desired mood and atmosphere, highlighting certain features, and revealing a subject’s personality. There are several types of lighting techniques that photographers can use to achieve their desired effect.
- Natural Lighting: Natural lighting is the most common and often the most flattering light source for portraits. It can be soft and diffused, creating a gentle and natural look, or it can be harsh and direct, creating strong contrast and drama.
- Artificial Lighting: Artificial lighting can be used to supplement natural light or create a specific mood or effect. This can include flash, strobes, and continuous lighting, which can be adjusted for intensity, color temperature, and direction.
- Ambient Lighting: Ambient lighting refers to the overall lighting in the environment, such as the light from a nearby window or streetlight. It can add a subtle and natural look to a portrait, but it can also be distracting or unflattering if not controlled properly.
- High-Speed Sync: High-speed sync is a technique used with strobes to freeze motion and eliminate motion blur. It is useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or when shooting in bright light conditions.
- Remote Flash: Remote flash is a technique that uses an external flash unit controlled by the camera to create a specific lighting effect. It allows for more control over the light and can be used to create unique and creative lighting patterns.
Overall, the choice of lighting will depend on the photographer’s artistic vision and the desired effect for the portrait. Mastering the art of lighting is a crucial skill for any portrait photographer, as it can make or break a photograph.
Focus and Depth of Field
When it comes to creating a portrait, one of the most important elements to consider is focus and depth of field. Focus refers to the point in the image where the camera is aimed, and depth of field refers to the range of distance in the image that appears in focus.
Understanding Focus
There are two main types of focus in photography: manual focus and autofocus. Manual focus involves adjusting the lens by hand to achieve the desired focus, while autofocus uses a sensor to automatically detect the focus point.
In portrait photography, it’s important to pay attention to the subject’s eyes, as they are often the most important part of the image. For this reason, many photographers choose to use a shallow depth of field, which blurs the background and draws attention to the subject’s eyes.
Depth of Field
Depth of field refers to the range of distance in the image that appears in focus. A shallow depth of field means that only a small portion of the image is in focus, while a deep depth of field means that most or all of the image is in focus.
To achieve a shallow depth of field, photographers can use a large aperture (small f-stop number) and focus on the subject’s eyes while allowing the background to blur. This can be achieved through manual focus or autofocus, depending on the photographer’s preference.
On the other hand, a deep depth of field is achieved by using a small aperture (large f-stop number) and focusing on a larger area of the image. This can be useful when photographing groups or landscapes, as it ensures that the entire scene is in focus.
Choosing the Right Focus and Depth of Field
The choice of focus and depth of field will depend on the desired effect and the subject of the portrait. For example, a shallow depth of field can be used to create a dramatic, professional look, while a deep depth of field can be used to capture a more candid, natural image.
Ultimately, the goal of portrait photography is to capture the essence of the subject and convey their personality through the image. By paying attention to focus and depth of field, photographers can create portraits that are not only technically sound but also emotionally powerful.
Post-Processing
Post-processing is a crucial aspect of portrait photography, where the photographer enhances the captured image using various software tools to bring out the desired results. The post-processing techniques can range from basic adjustments such as brightness, contrast, and color correction to more advanced techniques like retouching and image manipulation.
One of the most common post-processing techniques used in portrait photography is adjusting the exposure. This involves adjusting the brightness and contrast of the image to create a more pleasing visual effect. The photographer can also adjust the colors of the image to create a specific mood or atmosphere.
Another popular technique is retouching, which involves removing or minimizing imperfections on the subject’s skin, such as blemishes, wrinkles, and moles. This technique can also be used to remove unwanted elements from the image, such as stray hairs or distracting background elements.
Image manipulation is another advanced post-processing technique used in portrait photography. This technique involves altering the shape, size, or position of the subject in the image to create a more dynamic composition. This can also include adding or removing elements from the image to create a specific effect or mood.
In summary, post-processing is an essential part of portrait photography, where the photographer can enhance the captured image to create a more compelling visual effect. From basic adjustments to advanced techniques, post-processing can help the photographer achieve their desired vision for the portrait.
Capturing the Essence of the Subject
Understanding the Subject’s Personality
To create a compelling portrait, it is essential to understand the subject’s personality. This involves delving deeper into the individual’s character traits, values, beliefs, and emotions. Here are some key aspects to consider when understanding the subject’s personality for portrait photography:
- Facial Features: The subject’s facial features can reveal a lot about their personality. For example, a person with sharp, angular features may be perceived as confident and assertive, while someone with softer, more rounded features may be seen as more approachable and friendly.
- Body Language: The way the subject carries themselves can also provide insight into their personality. A person who stands tall and makes eye contact may be seen as confident and self-assured, while someone who fidgets or avoids eye contact may be perceived as nervous or unsure of themselves.
- Clothing and Accessories: The subject’s choice of clothing and accessories can also reflect their personality. For example, someone who dresses in bright, bold colors may be seen as outgoing and confident, while someone who prefers more muted tones may be perceived as more reserved or introspective.
- Background: The background of the portrait can also provide context for the subject’s personality. For example, if the subject is in a formal setting, such as a business meeting, the background may be a formal office or conference room. On the other hand, if the subject is in a more casual setting, such as a park or beach, the background may be more natural and relaxed.
By understanding the subject’s personality, you can create a portrait that captures their unique essence and tells a story about who they are as an individual.
Communication with the Subject
Effective communication with the subject is a crucial aspect of portrait photography. Building rapport and establishing trust with the subject allows the photographer to capture their true essence and create a more intimate and personal connection between the subject and the viewer. Here are some key points to consider when communicating with the subject during a portrait session:
- Active listening: Paying attention to the subject’s thoughts, feelings, and concerns can help the photographer understand their needs and preferences. This can lead to a more collaborative and satisfying experience for both the photographer and the subject.
- Establishing trust: Building trust with the subject is essential for capturing their true self. This can be achieved through open and honest communication, respecting the subject’s boundaries, and being transparent about the creative process.
- Empathy: Understanding the subject’s perspective and experiences can help the photographer create a more meaningful and authentic portrait. By putting themselves in the subject’s shoes, the photographer can better connect with the subject and capture their unique personality and character.
- Clear communication: Communicating clearly and effectively with the subject can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the final result meets the subject’s expectations. This includes discussing the creative vision, reviewing the shot list, and providing feedback throughout the process.
By establishing a strong connection with the subject through effective communication, the photographer can create portraits that are not only technically proficient but also emotionally compelling and authentic.
Cultural Considerations
When it comes to capturing the essence of a subject in portrait photography, cultural considerations play a significant role. Different cultures have different norms, values, and beliefs when it comes to portraiture, and it is important for photographers to be aware of these differences when creating portraits.
For example, in some cultures, it is considered disrespectful to show the bottom of one’s foot in a photograph, while in others, it is seen as a sign of humility. Similarly, in some cultures, it is customary to cover one’s face or hair in photographs, while in others, it is seen as a sign of modesty.
Furthermore, photographers should also be aware of the cultural context in which they are creating portraits. For instance, it is important to understand the history and traditions of a culture when creating portraits of individuals from that culture. This can help ensure that the portraits are respectful and meaningful to the subjects and their communities.
Additionally, photographers should also consider the power dynamics at play when creating portraits. In some cultures, it is considered disrespectful for someone of a lower social status to look up at someone of a higher social status in a photograph. Therefore, it is important for photographers to be aware of these dynamics and adjust their framing and composition accordingly.
Overall, cultural considerations are an essential aspect of capturing the essence of a subject in portrait photography. By being aware of these considerations and taking them into account when creating portraits, photographers can create meaningful and respectful images that accurately reflect the subjects and their cultures.
Challenges in Portrait Photography
Working with Different Subjects
Capturing a portrait is more than just pointing a camera at a person and clicking the shutter. It requires careful consideration of the subject’s appearance, mood, and personality, as well as the surrounding environment. One of the biggest challenges in portrait photography is working with different subjects, each with their own unique characteristics and requirements.
Understanding the Subject
Before taking a portrait, it is important to understand the subject’s personality, mood, and what they want to convey through the photograph. Some subjects may be extroverted and expressive, while others may be introverted and reserved. It is the photographer’s job to put the subject at ease and capture their true essence.
Lighting is a crucial element in portrait photography, as it can dramatically affect the mood and appearance of the subject. Different lighting setups can be used to create different effects, such as dramatic shadows or soft, flattering light. Understanding how to use light to enhance the subject’s features and create a desired mood is a key skill in portrait photography.
Camera Techniques
Camera techniques such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO also play a significant role in portrait photography. Aperture can be used to create a shallow depth of field and blur the background, while shutter speed can be used to freeze or blur the subject’s movement. ISO can be used to control the amount of light entering the camera, but too high an ISO can result in noise in the image.
Finally, post-processing is an essential part of portrait photography. This involves adjusting the image’s exposure, contrast, and color balance, as well as removing any unwanted elements such as blemishes or distractions. The goal is to create a photograph that accurately represents the subject and their personality, while also being visually appealing and impactful.
In summary, working with different subjects in portrait photography requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and an understanding of the subject’s personality and mood. By mastering these challenges, photographers can create powerful and compelling portraits that capture the essence of their subjects.
Capturing Emotion
Portrait photography is a unique genre that captures the essence of a person’s character, emotions, and personality. One of the most significant challenges in portrait photography is capturing emotion. Here are some techniques and strategies that photographers can use to capture the essence of their subject’s emotions:
Connection and Trust
Establishing a connection with the subject is crucial in capturing their emotions. Building trust with the subject allows them to feel comfortable and relaxed, leading to more genuine expressions. This can be achieved by spending time with the subject, listening to their stories, and showing empathy.
Setting the Mood
The environment and lighting can significantly impact the mood of the portrait. A photographer can create a specific mood by choosing the right location, using props, and adjusting the lighting. For example, using soft lighting can create a warm and intimate mood, while dramatic lighting can create a sense of tension or excitement.
Body Language and Facial Expressions
Body language and facial expressions are crucial in conveying emotion in a portrait. Photographers can encourage their subjects to adopt specific poses or expressions that convey the desired emotion. For example, a subject can lean forward to convey interest or lean back to convey relaxation. Photographers can also use reflectors or other tools to create subtle changes in the lighting to highlight or hide certain facial features.
Momentum and Spontaneity
Capturing emotion often requires the photographer to be spontaneous and ready to capture the moment when it happens. Photographers should be prepared to work quickly and adapt to changes in the subject’s mood or behavior. They should also be able to anticipate when the subject is likely to exhibit a particular emotion and be ready to capture it.
Post-Processing
In some cases, photographers may need to use post-processing techniques to enhance the emotional impact of a portrait. This can include adjusting the color balance, contrast, or brightness to create a specific mood or feeling. It can also include retouching or removing blemishes to enhance the subject’s appearance and convey a sense of confidence or beauty.
In conclusion, capturing emotion is a significant challenge in portrait photography, but it is also one of the most rewarding aspects of the genre. By building trust with the subject, setting the mood, paying attention to body language and facial expressions, being spontaneous, and using post-processing techniques, photographers can create portraits that capture the essence of their subject’s emotions and personality.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
Creating a captivating portrait photograph is an art form that requires a deep understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of photography. The process of overcoming technical challenges is a crucial part of this journey. This section will delve into the technical challenges that photographers face when creating portraits and provide insights into how these challenges can be overcome.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most critical factors in portrait photography. The type of light used, its intensity, and its direction can all have a significant impact on the final image. Photographers must be skilled in utilizing different lighting techniques, such as natural light, artificial light, and studio lighting, to achieve the desired effect.
Composition
Composition is another essential aspect of portrait photography. Photographers must consider the placement of the subject within the frame, the use of negative space, and the overall balance of the image. A well-composed portrait can make all the difference in creating a powerful and engaging image.
Focus and Sharpness
The focus and sharpness of the subject are crucial elements in portrait photography. Photographers must be skilled in selecting the appropriate focus point and using techniques such as shallow depth of field and selective focus to create a unique and compelling image.
Exposure
Exposure is also a significant technical challenge in portrait photography. Photographers must be knowledgeable about aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to ensure that the image is correctly exposed. They must also be aware of the effects of bracketing and histograms to achieve the desired exposure.
Finally, post-processing is an essential part of portrait photography. Photographers must be skilled in using software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to enhance the image and bring out the desired look and feel. This includes techniques such as retouching, color correction, and adjusting the overall tone and mood of the image.
In conclusion, overcoming technical challenges is a vital part of the process of creating captivating portrait photographs. Photographers must be skilled in utilizing lighting, composition, focus and sharpness, exposure, and post-processing techniques to achieve the desired effect. With practice and experience, photographers can overcome these challenges and create powerful and engaging portraits that capture the essence of their subjects.
The Future of Portrait Photography
Evolution of Technology
With the rapid advancement of technology, portrait photography has experienced a significant transformation in recent years. From digital cameras to smartphones, the tools available to photographers have expanded exponentially, enabling them to capture and create portraits in new and innovative ways.
One of the most significant technological advancements in portrait photography has been the development of digital cameras and editing software. Digital cameras have made it possible for photographers to capture high-quality images with ease, while editing software has allowed them to manipulate and enhance their photographs in ways that were previously impossible.
Furthermore, the rise of social media has played a significant role in shaping the future of portrait photography. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have given photographers a global audience, providing them with a platform to showcase their work and connect with clients. As a result, many photographers have embraced a more stylized and creative approach to portrait photography, with a focus on creating images that are visually striking and memorable.
In addition to these technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing an increasingly significant role in the future of portrait photography. AI algorithms can analyze large datasets of photographs and identify patterns and trends, enabling photographers to create more personalized and tailored portraits. For example, AI algorithms can analyze a subject’s facial features and suggest the most flattering angles and lighting setups.
Overall, the evolution of technology has had a profound impact on the art of portrait photography, enabling photographers to create more diverse and dynamic portraits than ever before. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that portrait photography will continue to evolve and adapt, opening up new possibilities for creative expression and storytelling.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media has played a significant role in shaping the future of portrait photography. With the rise of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat, portraits have become a ubiquitous form of self-expression. The ease of sharing images on these platforms has made portrait photography more accessible to a wider audience than ever before.
However, this influx of amateur photographers has also led to a saturation of the market. With so many people sharing their portraits online, it has become increasingly difficult for professional photographers to stand out. This has led to a shift in the industry, with many professionals focusing on niche markets and specialized areas of portrait photography.
Moreover, social media has also influenced the way that portraits are perceived by the public. With the proliferation of selfies and smartphone photography, the boundaries between professional and amateur photography have become blurred. This has led to a greater appreciation for the art of portrait photography, as well as a renewed interest in the technical aspects of the craft.
Overall, the impact of social media on portrait photography has been both positive and negative. While it has made the industry more accessible and increased public appreciation for the art form, it has also led to a saturation of the market and a blurring of the lines between professional and amateur photography.
New Trends in Portrait Photography
As technology continues to advance and the world becomes more interconnected, portrait photography is constantly evolving. In this section, we will explore some of the new trends in portrait photography that are shaping the future of this art form.
Digital Portraits
One of the most significant trends in portrait photography is the rise of digital portraits. With the advent of digital cameras and editing software, photographers can now create highly stylized and manipulated portraits that were previously impossible to achieve. Digital portraits allow photographers to experiment with color, lighting, and composition in ways that were not possible with traditional film photography.
Self-Portraits
Another trend in portrait photography is the rise of self-portraits. With the widespread availability of smartphones and camera equipment, it has never been easier for photographers to create self-portraits. Self-portraits offer a unique perspective on the subject, as the photographer is both the model and the photographer. This trend has led to the rise of social media platforms such as Instagram, where self-portraits are highly popular.
Environmental Portraits
Environmental portraits are another trend in portrait photography that is gaining popularity. Environmental portraits are portraits that are taken in the subject’s natural environment, such as their workplace or home. These portraits offer a unique insight into the subject’s life and personality, as their surroundings can reveal much about who they are. Environmental portraits are often used in editorial and commercial photography, as they provide a unique perspective on the subject.
3D Portraits
Finally, 3D portraits are another trend in portrait photography that is gaining popularity. 3D portraits are created by combining traditional photography with 3D scanning technology. These portraits offer a highly realistic and detailed representation of the subject, as they capture not only their physical appearance but also their facial expressions and body language. 3D portraits are often used in special effects and entertainment industries, but they are also gaining popularity in fine art photography.
Overall, these new trends in portrait photography are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this art form. Whether it’s through digital manipulation, self-portraiture, environmental portraits, or 3D scanning technology, photographers are exploring new ways to capture the essence of their subjects and tell their stories through portrait photography.
Recap of Key Points
- Digital Technology: The widespread adoption of digital cameras and smartphones has transformed portrait photography, enabling photographers to capture, edit, and share images more easily than ever before. This has led to a democratization of portrait photography, with amateur photographers able to produce high-quality portraits that rival those of professionals.
- Self-Portraiture: The rise of selfies and self-portraiture has led to a new form of self-expression and exploration, allowing individuals to document their own lives and experiences in a unique and personal way. This has also led to a greater focus on the individual within portrait photography, with a greater emphasis on capturing the personality and essence of the subject.
- Diversification of Subjects: Portrait photography has become more inclusive, with a greater diversity of subjects being depicted in portraits. This has led to a greater representation of different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, and has allowed for a more nuanced and authentic representation of the human experience.
- Blurring of Boundaries: The lines between traditional portrait photography and other forms of visual expression, such as fine art and street photography, have become increasingly blurred. This has led to a more experimental and innovative approach to portrait photography, with photographers pushing the boundaries of the medium and exploring new techniques and styles.
- New Technologies: Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, are also set to play a major role in the future of portrait photography. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way portraits are created, edited, and shared, and could lead to new forms of portrait photography that are even more personalized and expressive.
Final Thoughts on the Art of Portrait Photography
- As technology continues to advance, portrait photography will continue to evolve and expand its horizons.
- With the rise of digital platforms and social media, portrait photography will continue to play a significant role in how individuals present themselves to the world.
- As portrait photography continues to diversify, it will become increasingly important for photographers to develop their own unique styles and voices.
- Ultimately, the future of portrait photography lies in the hands of the artists themselves, as they push the boundaries of the medium and redefine what it means to create a truly powerful and memorable portrait.
FAQs
1. What is a portrait?
A portrait is a photograph or artwork that captures the likeness and personality of an individual or group of individuals. It is an artistic representation of a person, which aims to capture their essence, character, and spirit. Portraits can be taken in various styles, formats, and settings, and they can be created using different techniques and mediums.
2. What are the elements of a portrait?
The elements of a portrait include the subject, lighting, composition, background, and expression. The subject is the main focus of the portrait, and it can be a person, an animal, or even an object. Lighting is used to create mood, shape, and form, and it can be natural or artificial. Composition refers to the arrangement of visual elements within the frame, and it can be used to create balance, symmetry, or visual interest. The background is the environment in which the subject is placed, and it can be used to create context or draw attention to the subject. Finally, expression refers to the emotions or mood conveyed by the subject, and it can be used to capture their personality or character.
3. What are the different types of portraits?
There are several types of portraits, including traditional portraits, environmental portraits, studio portraits, and candid portraits. Traditional portraits are posed and often formal, and they are typically taken in a studio or controlled environment. Environmental portraits are taken on location and feature the subject in their natural surroundings. Studio portraits are taken in a controlled environment, such as a photography studio, and they are often used for commercial or professional purposes. Candid portraits are spontaneous and capture the subject in a natural, unposed manner.
4. What is the purpose of a portrait?
The purpose of a portrait can vary depending on the context and the intended audience. Portraits can be used for personal or family records, for artistic expression, for commercial or professional purposes, or for historical or cultural documentation. Portraits can also be used to celebrate, commemorate, or honor an individual or group of individuals.
5. What makes a good portrait?
A good portrait captures the essence, character, and spirit of the subject, and it is often visually appealing and emotionally engaging. A good portrait should have good composition, lighting, and technical quality, and it should be well-executed and well-presented. A good portrait should also capture the subject’s personality, mood, or expression, and it should be able to convey a message or tell a story.
