I love Sasha Gitin's simple explanation of the various portrait styles. Information credit to Sasha Gitin from Learnmyshot.com.

1. Traditional portraits.

Traditional or Classical portraiture would refer to an image where the subjects are posed and looking directly into the camera. The purpose of the photograph is to depict visual representation of the persons photographed.

2. Environmental Portrait.

The term Environmental Portrait refers to an image where the subject is photographed in the person’s natural environment. For example, a worker photographed at the construction zone, teacher in the classroom, sculptor in a sculpture studio and so on. Surroundings are used to compliment the subject and to emphasize his character. Subject and setting are chosen by the photographer.

4. Candid Portrait.

A candid portrait is taken without a subject expecting or acknowledging the photographer. This style is used in photo journalism, travel photography, street photography and event photography such as a wedding. As opposed to an environmental portrait this image is captured at the moment rather than set up.

5. Glamor Portrait.

The term Glamor Portrait refers to portraits where emphasis is given to highlight the sexy romantic appeal of the subject.

6. Lifestyle Portrait

The term Lifestyle Portrait refers to portraits where emphasis is given to suggest the “style of living” of the individuals depicted. Technically it is a combination of environmental portraits and candid portraits. More weight is given to communicate the feeling of life experience of the subject. Style has numerous implications in commercial and fine art photography. Editorial, fashion, pharmaceutical, and food industries often use lifestyle images to evoke emotions in viewers by depiction of desired life styles. It is common to see this style used in weddings and family portrait photography as well.

7. Surreal Portrait.

Surreal Portraits are created to emphasize the other reality. A depiction of a person’s interpreted subconscious mind. Surrealism is an art movement started in the early 1920‘s and still alive and well. In photography tricks and special effects are used to achieve a surreal look. VIDEO/ EBOOK: Photography Tricks and Special Effects

8. Conceptual Portrait.

Conceptual Portrait refers to images where concept adds a fourth dimension. The hidden meaning of the concept will leave the viewer guessing as it is often open for interpretation. Conceptual artists generally get offended when asked what did they mean in their photograph. It is the job of the viewer to decide. Conceptual Portraits are often used in advertising photography but concepts are much easier to understand.

Photo by Constantin Gedal. “Untitled” 2007

9. Abstract Portrait.

Abstract portraits are created with a purpose of creating art and not based on realistic representation of a person. Collage or digital manipulation is often used.

Photo by Sasha Gitin. Portrait of Ura, 1999

Maternity, Newborn & Family Portrait Photography in the Richmond VA Area

Styles of Portrait Photography Explained | Sarah Kane Photography