When doing portrait photography the primary aim of the portrait photographer is the capturing of a person or group of persons? likeness. This is usually done in a manner that presents the person or group favourably. Portrait photographs also captures and brings out the essence of the persons personality and identity. The photograph should in some way tell a story about whoever is in the picture.

The primary focus of a portrait photograph will be the face of the person being photographed. The secondary focus is on the person's entire body, if it forms a part of the portrait, and the background.

It is possible for novices to develop and learn the art of portrait photography and it is the simplest way for them to begin their career as a photographer. The basic requirement needed to become a portrait photographer is the ability to capture people's face in a picture and do so in an impressive manner. There is also that certain element that portrait photographers must possess that is indescribable and is known only when the picture is seen and it is a masterpiece. This certain element some say, can be learned while others believe that you have to be born with it.

In trying to capture a person's essence and make them stand out, the photographer needs to possess good interpersonal abilities. These abilities will make is easier for them to communicate with the subject and make them comfortable about their portrait being taken, thus bringing out their true personality which will show in the photograph.

The portrait photographer has to be able to create the right feel for the photograph by controlling the lighting and what is included. It is advised that portrait photographers use natural light where it is possible to do so or based on what the subject wants. Thus portraits can be shot outdoors or even at home. The more popular location for portraits to be done is in a studio where the lighting and the environment can be expertly controlled. It is very important that a portrait photographer has the necessary knowledge about lighting and that he or she applies this knowledge in an appropriate manner.

The choice of background is another important element of portrait photography. The meaning of the background will be lost if it is too close or too far away from the subject. It may even end up overwhelming the subject. It is prudent for the photographer to do their best to blend the subject and the background so as to represent a unified shape.

Portrait photography will generally include shots such as those of a family, friend, weddings, business owners, and posed photos taken for a newsletter or newspaper.

It is necessary that the portrait photographer possess great amounts of patience. This is so because getting the right picture is never usually an easy thing to do. Most of the time subjects are difficult to deal with, especially when photographing children and senior citizens. Thus the shot may take some time to capture the right moment that reveals the subjects character.

Portrait photography is an art form unto itself and must be done with great care and imagination