Written by Liberal Arts Assistant Professor Kat Medill
From the rigid and formal studio portraits of the past to the dynamic and expressive environmental portraits of today, the art of capturing a person’s essence through portrait photography has undergone a significant transformation. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of portrait photography by exploring the evolution from traditional studio setups to the more contemporary environmental approach. We’ll discuss the history of portrait photography, key techniques to the medium, some significant female photographers, and trends in portrait photography.
The History of Portrait Photography
Early Studio Portraiture + Transition to More Accessible Photography
Portrait photography has evolved to reflect technological advancements and societal shifts in identity and self-expression. The 19th century marked a significant turning point for portrait photography with the introduction of the daguerreotype to the public by the French government in 1839. A daguerreotype is an early type of photograph created on a silver-plated copper plate. Daguerreotypes offer unique, detailed images with a mirror-like surface, often encased in a protective frame. Key characteristics of a daguerreotype include:
- Unique: Each image is one-of-a-kind, as the process destroys the light-sensitive chemicals on a silvered copper plate.
- Mirror-like finish: The image has a reflective surface.
- Positive image: Unlike modern negatives, daguerreotypes are positive images. In photography, a negative is a transparent image where light areas appear dark and dark areas appear light. It’s typically on film or a digital sensor and is used to create a positive print, where the image appears in its correct tonal range
- Fragile: These images require careful handling and storage (Avedon, 2004; Gernsheim, 1969; Newhall, 1982; Perich, 2011; Sandweiss, 1991).
In the 19th century, the rise of daguerreotype studios in urban centers like New York City made portraiture more accessible to a wider audience.
The limitations of the daguerreotype, like its single-use nature, were addressed by the calotype process, developed by William Henry Fox Talbot in 1840-1841. The calotype method used paper coated with silver iodide to create a negative image. As such, multiple prints could be made from a single negative.
In the studio, portrait photographers relied on: lighting, backdrops, and props to set up and capture their subjects. Early exposure times were often several minutes and required subjects to sit and remain still. As technology progressed, exposure times shortened exponentially. The exposed plate (or negative) was developed in a darkroom using various chemicals. Once the negative was developed, prints of the image could be made. Early processes like the calotype involved exposing a sensitized paper to light through the negative. Later processes, like the albumen print, used a more complex chemical process. The finished prints were often framed and matted to protect the images. Some photographers would hand-color their prints to add a touch of realism or artistry (Avedon, 2004; Gernsheim, 1969; Newhall, 1982; Perich, 2011; Sandweiss, 1991).
Rise of Environmental Portraiture
As technology advanced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, portrait photography evolved. Smaller, more portable cameras enabled photographers to capture candid moments outside of the studio setting. This laid the foundation for contemporary portraiture, which embraces diverse styles and reflects the complexity and flexibility of human identity (Sandweiss, 1991).
Comparing Studio Portraits and Environmental Portraits
Studio and environmental portraits offer distinct approaches to capturing a subject’s essence and/or creating an artistic message.
Studio Portraits
Studio portraits are often shot in controlled environments with artificial lighting and a staged environment. This technique allows for precise control over lighting, composition, and background.
Environmental Portraits
The roots of environmental portraiture can be traced back to the social documentary movements of the early 20th century. The transition from traditional studio portraits to environmental portraits represents a significant evolution in the field of photography by emphasizing the relationship between subjects and their surroundings (or environment). Environmental portraits differ fundamentally from studio portraits, which often focus solely on the subject. Instead, this genre captures individuals within their typical settings—for example, homes, workplaces, or public spaces—thereby illustrating how their environment influences their identity and life experiences (Sontag, 1977). This storytelling approach allows viewers to connect with the subjects.
Photographers like Robert Capa and Henri Cartier-Bresson employed this style to bring attention to societal issues, using imagery to document the lives and struggles of individuals within their environments (Capa, 1947; Cartier-Bresson, 1952). Cartier-Bresson’s iconic photograph, “Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare,” (1932) captures a man leaping over a puddle, his reflection mirrored in the water. This image encapsulates the essence of environmental portraiture, capturing a decisive moment within a specific context. Such portraits not only serve artistic purposes but also provide insight into social conditions.
While studio portraits offer a timeless approach, environmental portraits provide immersive experience. Both techniques have their merits and can be used effectively to convey different messages and emotions. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the photographer’s vision and the desired impact of the image.
Modern Techniques for Creating Compelling Portraits
Advancements in digital photography have also contributed to the rise of environmental portraits. With improved resolution and editing capabilities, photographers can now capture intricate details of both subjects and their surroundings, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the images. The accessibility of digital tools has allowed more photographers to experiment with this genre, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression in portrait photography. The 20th century’s digital revolution transformed portrait photography once again. Innovative retouching techniques and online platforms expanded the audience and influence of portraiture (Perich 2011).
Lighting Techniques for Studio Portraits
The foundation of studio portraiture lies in effective portrait lighting techniques. A key light, positioned at a 45-degree angle, illuminates the subject’s primary features and creates depth within the image. A fill light, positioned opposite the key light, softens shadows and adds dimension to the subject’s face. Finally, a backlight, positioned behind the subject, separates them from the background and adds a halo effect to their hair or outline (Fordham, 2022; Israelson, 2015).
Capturing Emotion in Environmental Portraits
Environmental portraits capture subjects within their natural surroundings, allowing for a deeper connection between the individual and their environment. By carefully selecting locations and directing poses, photographers can evoke specific emotions, such as nostalgia, solitude, or joy.
Composition Tips for Portrait Photography
But how do photographers capture and/or create the moments they document? Effective portrait composition is crucial in portrait photography. Some portrait composition tips include techniques like the Rule of Thirds can enhance visual interest by placing the subject at the intersections or along the lines of a grid dividing the frame into nine equal parts. Leading lines, such as roads or fences, can guide the viewer’s eye toward the subject. Framing with elements like doorways or windows adds depth and context, while symmetry and patterns can create balance. Tonal contrast manipulates light and dark areas to add drama or softness. Post-processing is an integral part of portrait photography. For example, color grading can enhance the overall tone and draw attention to specific elements. Refining details, adjusting exposure and contrast, and ensuring color consistency contribute to creating an artists’ style (Cornfield, 2020; Fordham, 2022).
Case Studies: Iconic Portrait Photographers
The history of portrait photography is full of contributions of numerous influential photographers. Below, we highlight female photographers: Julia Margaret Cameron, Dorothea Lange, and Nan Goldin. This is not an extensive list, but a starting point for the reader to begin their own research into influential photographers.
Julia Margaret Cameron (British, 1815-1879)
Known for her dramatic and often unconventional portraits. Cameron’s work challenged the conventions of Victorian portraiture, focusing on the emotional depth and character of her subjects. She utilized soft focus and dramatic lighting to create evocative and often dreamlike images. Cameron’s work helped establish photography as an art form and inspired future generations of photographers (Springer, 2023).
Dorothea Lange (American, 1895-1965)
A documentary photographer, Lange’s portraits of migrant workers during the Great Depression are iconic. Her images, such as “Migrant Mother,” (1936) captured the human cost of economic hardship with empathy and social consciousness. Lange’s poignant images during the Great Depression provided a stark contrast to more stylized portraiture and highlighted photography’s potential for social change (Gordon, 2010).
Nan Goldin (b. 1953)
Goldin’s intimate and often raw portraits capture the lives of friends, lovers, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Her work explores themes of addiction, sexuality, and loss, often challenging societal norms and expectations (Holborn and Heiferman, 2012).
These female photographers have made significant contributions to the field of portrait photography, expanding its boundaries and challenging traditional conventions. Their work continues to inspire and influence contemporary photographers, ensuring that their legacy lives on.
Trends in Contemporary Portrait Photography
Creative Portrait Styles
Portrait photography goes beyond mere representation; it intertwines with cultural
identity, creating narratives that reflect personal history and societal context. The responsibility of photographers extends to understanding and respecting cultural
symbols within their work. This involves engaging in research and dialogue with subjects to capture representations. Contemporary photographers like Sebastião Salgado (Brazil) exemplify this approach by highlighting cultural identities and social issues within their portraits, thereby contributing to a more nuanced understanding of different communities (Salgado, 2024).
The impact of photography on cultural perceptions can be profound. While it has the power to challenge and deconstruct stereotypes, it can also inadvertently reinforce them. Responsible representation in photography is essential to fostering a more accurate understanding of cultures. Viewers are encouraged to critically analyze images and their implications, promoting a deeper engagement with the complexities of cultural identity (Carlson, 2021).
Future of Portrait Photography
The evolution of portrait photography continues to be shaped by technological advancements and cultural shifts. Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field, enhancing image editing, retouching, and camera technology. AI-powered tools streamline workflows and make high-quality portraiture more accessible.
Social media platforms like Instagram have created a new paradigm for self-expression and visual storytelling. This has led photographers to question the role of the photographer and subject in contemporary practice.
From its studio-bound origins to its contemporary environmental approaches, portrait photography’s journey exemplifies the dynamic interplay between technology, art, and societal values throughout history.
Explore Your Artistic Potential at RMCAD
If you’re inspired by the rich history and evolving styles of portrait photography—from traditional studio portraits to contemporary environmental captures—consider enhancing your artistic journey with Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. RMCAD offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography degree tailored to meet your creative and professional aspirations, whether you’re seeking flexibility through online coursework or immersive experiences on our vibrant campus. Request more information today and discover how our Fine Arts and Art Education programs can help you capture your vision and shape your artistic future.
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