Portraits vs Lifestyle Photography
You’re searching for the perfect portrait photographer, but you come across a “lifestyle” photographer. What is the difference - and does it even matter? Understanding the difference can help you choose a photographer whose style best fits your vision. I am here to help clients choose the right style for their session - whether it’s for senior portraits or family.
What is Portrait Photography: Portrait photography is intentional, posed and more formal, simple put. The photographer controls the environment with lighting, background and posing. The photographer guides and directs client(s) poses and expressions. A portrait photographer will also focus on clean and timeless composition, background is not the main focus, the subject is. Portraits are often studio-based or carefully chosen outdoor spots which leads your eye to the subject. Editing is often more clean, classic and sometimes dramatic. The ultimate goal for portrait photography is to show the person at their best.
What is a lifestyle Photographer: Lifestyle photographer is candid involving real - life moment and storytelling. A photographer will put emphasis on connection, movement and the environment. If there’s any posing, its loose, but designed to feel natural. Lifestyle captures more of the scene with less emphasis on composition and less of the desired bokeh (blur) that you see more in a portrait. Lifestyle edits are more airy, bright and soft. The ultimate goal is storytelling and relaxed branding.
Okay. Which one is right for you? If you’re a client who wants a polished timeless image, who prefers the photographer to take control of the environment and person in the environment, you simple want a portrait photographer vs a lifestyle who capture real-life moments and connection. The photographer has less control on the environment and the subject(s)
Can you blend the two? Like me, I can blend both styles, depending on the client’s preference. I bring the best of both worlds. You’ll get your posed classics and the candid gold that happens in between.
For example: In a senior session, we might start off with formal shots, then switch to relaxed shots walking downtown.
Choosing the right photographer is about your style and personality. Still not sure which one’s your style? Let’s Chat!
