What makes a particular photograph a portrait?

A portrait is a photograph or artwork that captures the identity or essence of an individual. Selfie can be portraits as they show a person’s likeness and expression, though often less formal. In a portrait, include elements that reveal the subject’s identity—like their face, expression, or meaningful objects. Avoid distractions that don’t serve the subject’s essence. A good portrait captures the subject’s personality, uses good composition and lighting, and evokes emotion. Yes, a portrait can focus on a small detail, like a hand, if it conveys something meaningful about the subject. A blurred or manipulated image can still be a portrait if it retains some connection to the person’s identity or essence. But when the subject becomes unrecognizable, it shifts from a portrait to something more abstract or conceptual. A still-life or arrangement of personal objects can symbolize a person and be considered a portrait if it evokes their identity, personality, or life. It’s more about capturing the essence of the person than their direct image. A series of images can also be a portrait, especially if it explores different aspects or perspectives of the person. A sequence can provide a richer, more layered representation than a single shot.