Classical Portraiture

Good portraits in the classical tradition attempt to show people as they are. A classical portrait is minimalist portraiture, since it emphasizes the most recognizable part of a subject, the face. Everything else is less important. Typically, the subjects in these portraits aren't doing anything, they simply *are*. Their poses are relaxed without appearing stiff or awkward. Lighting is very important to give shape to the face, often using Chiaroscuro or Rembrandt lighting. These photographers made at least some famous portraits in the classical manner: Julia Margaret Cameron, Arnold Newman, Irving Penn, Yousuf Karsh, Alfred Stieglitz, Imogene Cunningham, and Philippe Halsman. Find some inspiration in these painters also: John Singer Sargent, Velazquez, Hans Holbein The Younger, Rembrandt, Anthony Van Dyck, Raphael, Joshua Reynolds, and Jan van Eyck.