by Aaron Beane
The characters of your portrait have been cast! The youngest child, seemingly outgrowing their new clothes every other day, or perhaps your colleague who, after serving the company’s mission for 30 years, is ready for another 30 at the beach. Whatever the case, to make a masterpiece of a portrait, you must set the scene!
The setting of a portrait is almost just as important as its subject. The background can emphasize the individuals, shine a light on their history, and even assist in demonstrating action or interaction in space. How these objectives are achieved comes in many forms. From sunbathed backyards to eye-catching polka dot patterns, the possibilities are endless.
The primary distinguishing characteristic to consider when planning your portrait is whether or not your desired background is an existing or constructed environment. Existing backgrounds include indoor and outdoor spaces, whereas constructed environments often involve the creation of an imagined backdrop. Constructed backdrops may come as a minimalistic pop of color or a repeated pattern not present at the sitting.
Often, indoor spaces present a more formal option. However, their versatility allows for multiple interpretations. While more formal, indoor portraits can also showcase familiarity and comfort in a setting such as a family home. Indoor spaces often feature malleable characteristics, such as the lighting or the arrangement of objects in the room.
Some seasons lend themselves to a vast selection of settings. Often during spring and summer, clients take advantage of the beauty of the blossoming outdoors. Outdoor portraits excel at capturing a range of personalities from the buzzing sports icon to the relaxed hammock enthusiast. While characteristics such as light and color can be more difficult to manipulate in outdoor settings, the location options are limited only by where you can go!
Beyond re-arranging furniture and positioning oneself in front of a favorite bed of flowers, subjects often choose specific objects they want in their portrait. For some, this may look like reading a favorite book or wearing a pin, denoting years of service and accomplishment. The objects chosen should not fill up space or steal the show. These significant treasures should tell us something about the subject - without distraction.
These are but a few of the many considerations that can go into choosing the setting for your portrait. The fleeting moments captured in a painting or drawing mean much more in context. Surround yourself with all that makes you shine – a field, the stage, home.
To learn more contact us: call 1.800.476.1223 or e-mail us .
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 70-year history, Portraits, Inc. has carefully assembled a select group of the world’s foremost portrait artists offering a range of styles and prices. Recognized as the industry leader, Portraits, Inc. provides expert guidance for discerning clients interested in commissioning fine art portraits.