Environmental Portrait

An environmental portrait is a portrait taken in the subject's natural environment. In an environmental portrait, the subject is shown in a setting that shares information about the person's life or interest.

This is an example of an environmental portrait. It shows ballerinas in a ballet studio, where they actually would be dancing, as opposed to just having a blank or unrealistic backdrop.

More Types of Portraits:

Candid: A candid portrait is a portrait taken without posing or communicating with the subject before taking the photo. In a candid portrait, the subject can appear to either be aware or unaware of the photographer's presence.

Posed: A posed portrait is a candid portrait in which the photographer has somehow communicated with the subject, to change what they are doing, like a change in body position or expression, in front of the camera.

Formal: A formal portrait is typically planned out. Communication between the subject and photographer have been discussed, such as clothing, position, expression and background.

Rules of Thumb for Portraits:

1. The body of the subject should not be turned directly toward the camera

2. Avoid bright colors or bold prints on clothing

3. The body of the subject should not be turned 90 degrees from the camera