There is always a trade off between how we imagine ourselves and how others see us. Depending on where the portrait is going to be used and who has commissioned it an individual photograph will capture a particular interpretation of the portrait subject. This can be influenced by the photographer through the framing, lighting and styling of an image much like the portrait painters of old. Ultimately the end result is a collaboration between photographer and sitter to create the final image.

Portraits have the power to provide subtle clues about the person that we the viewer often interpret on a subconscious level. This is particularly important if it's a headshot or profile photo where you would want certain characteristics displayed but might not be sure how to do so.