Was macht ein gutes Portraitfoto aus?

A good portrait photo is more than just a technically perfect image. It tells a story, evokes emotions, or creates a special atmosphere – sometimes even all at once. But how is this achieved? The answer lies not just in technique, but primarily in the relationship between the photographer and the model.

The Portrait as a Message

A successful portrait conveys something: an emotion, a story, or a mood. It shows not just a face, but a person – and sometimes even more than what is visible at first glance.

To achieve this, there needs to be a real connection between the photographer and the person being photographed. The camera doesn’t just see the outer appearance but also the inner self. And that’s what makes a strong portrait: when the model can open up, every “mask” falls away.

The Interaction Between Photographer and Model

This is where the role of the photographer comes into play. It’s not enough to just press the shutter. A good portrait is created through trust and openness. As a photographer, it’s my job to create an atmosphere where the person in front of the camera feels comfortable – free from insecurities or the fear of being judged.

This means listening, having conversations, and gently guiding the model through the process. When I, as the photographer, create this connection, the camera almost becomes irrelevant.

Technique Supports, But Doesn’t Dominate

Of course, technical aspects like lighting, sharpness, and focus are important. But for a professional photographer, these skills should be second nature. These elements are tools that support the message of the image.

An example:

• Bright lighting rarely suits a dramatic portrait. It highlights lightness and clarity – perfect for a business portrait.

• Dark, high-contrast lighting can create an intense or melancholic mood. This might be more suitable for a writer on a book cover than for a business profile.

The art lies in using technique and style to reinforce the desired message of the portrait.

Why This Is Important

A portrait is always a message – whether in the corporate world, where it’s meant to convey professionalism and trust, or in art, where it reveals the depths of a personality. And that message is what makes a good portrait photo.

A portrait stays in memory when it evokes something in us. And that only happens if it’s authentic – if the person in the image is truly visible.

Have you ever seen a portrait that touched you? Perhaps it had just these qualities: emotion, story, or mood. That’s the magic of portrait photography – and that’s exactly what I aim to capture in my images.