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!
Location. Location. Location. Choosing the prime spot.
Choosing a portrait can be a little thought provoking. Here are my thoughts to get you in the right spot. I provide a plethora of different location to fit you personality and interests in the Denver area and beyond. You don’t have to take my suggestion. It’s your shoot and I shoot any spot. One location does not fit all. So think about this:
YOUR PERSONALITY - are you artistic, athletic, casual, nature lover, urban skateboarder, goth chic, outdoors man, studious, whatever it is, location can reveal you. Here are some examples:
. City Slickers: rooftop garages with a sweet view, mural walls, urban streets
. Artistic: Graffiti walls, galleries, art museums, architectural buildings, record stores, streets with signs
. Studious: Library, bookstores
. Nature Lover: Mountain scenery, parks, botanical gardens
. Athletic: school stadium, track fields.
MATCHING THE MOODS TO THE OUFIT(S) - what do I mean? I mean, make sure the background complements your outfits and does not clash. For example: you’re dressed in a suit and tie or you’re into fashion, but want a natural backdrop. Suit and tie (dress clothing, fashion) exudes, a business profession. This may not fit the natural scene appropriately and maybe urban is just the scene.
Okay, have you heard of juxtaposition? We can apply that to photographs and portraits if done with thought and intent. If not, then it can clash.
A juxtaposition for example: you love to 4x4 but you live in the city. Maybe a Jeep on a rooftop with a view? Or, you’re a cowboy with that awesome hat, jeans and boots, but you live in the city. BOOM! Juxtapose that!
. If you’re more bold, edgy, gritty, maybe urban, industrial, graffiti walls backdrop would fit the mood more appropriately
. If your mood is more soft pastels, flow- y, maybe floral (botanical) gardens, golden hour, natural backdrops would set the scene better.
SENTIMENTAL SPOTS: These are spots that mean something to you - your backyard, favorite hangout, your high school, or even a childhood playground. This can add authenticity and real emotion to your portraits.
My son for example: he loves old cars, vintage and antiques, so I found it fitting to take him to Tulsa, for a Route 66 theme. Now, I know most people do not have the luxury or time for a destination shoot, but it worked for us and he engaged more than if I had popped him in environment that didn’t mean anything to him. You can read his blog here : Carston Smith
And of course, TIMING IS EVERYTHING in portraits and all genres of photography - LIGHTING! Mid day reveals harsher light, but can be more dramatic and edgier. Golden Hour ( an hour or so before sunrise and sunset) reveals a warmer, more flattering glow. Again. what is your style and personality?
In conclusion, location is mostly everything to your senior portraits. If you’re not a nature person, but pick a natural backdrop, it may not translate to your personality, interest and vibe. DON’T forget about juxtaposition. This is where brainstorming and creativity come in to play. After all, you’re hiring a professional, so utilize that and come up with something non-traditional and really let your personality shine through.