Portrait photography is aimed toward capturing the personality of a person or group of people. This type of photography is usually to capture special occasions, such as weddings, school events, or commercial purposes. Portraits aim to capture the essence of a person’s identity, personality and attitude. A portrait is carefully planned and rehearsed with the client. This includes the background, props, clothes, position, and the angle of the photo which should be prepared before the photo shoot. Portrait photography involves four types: environmental, constructionist, candid, and creative.

Environmental portraits is when the person is positioned in surroundings that relate to the person’s identity or profession. For example Arnold Newman’s photo of Leonard Bernstein, american conductor, composer, and pianist known in the industry of both classical and popular music. He has chosen to photograph him in theater which is his place of work and with instruments around him for the orchestra and a baton for conducting.

Constructionist portraits are all about building emotion and developing atmosphere. The photographer may choose to set the mood of the portrait with the background, lighting, and person’s body language. For example, a photographer might have a mom-to-be holding her belly and looking downward to convey the notion of waiting. Likewise, for a serious attitude, the photographer might have a client look intently into the camera and use a minimal background.

Candid portraits involve capturing the essence of a client when they think the photographer isn’t working. However it will still be staged and they would still have direction from the photographer. What isn’t planned is exactly when the photograph is going to be snapped.

https://study.com/academy/lesson/portrait-photography-definition-techniques-tips.html