There are many photographic techniques that can be applied to portrait photography, all of which give a create a different meaning, and overall mood of the image. Certain techniques are only used in certain environments, like a professional setting, whereas some more general techniques, like the use of colour, can be applied anywhere.

Informal/Candid– a photograph captured naturally, without creating a posed appearance. often the subject is unaware that the photograph has been taken.

Formal/Posed- a planned and posed image of a person of group of people such as a wedding photograph or photos of people for business purposes.

Head shot / Half body / Three quarter length / Full body- this relates to how much of the subject’s body is visible. A head shot is often used by people working in the entertainment industry like actors, whereas a three-quarter length shot is often more casual.

High angle / Low angle / Canted (or Dutch) angle- this is referring to the positioning of the camera when the photo is taken. A canted angle image is one where the horizon and any straight lines is at an angle to the bottom of the image, which adds drama and a possible sense of tension or psychological unease.

Archival / Historic- images of a famous historical or political figure, perhaps during a defining moment in time or else as a posed, formal image

High key / Low key- high key images are bright, light, and airy and contain little to no shadow. Low key images are mainly blackness or shadows and have an emphasis of natural or artificial light only in certain parts of the frame.