More Than a Pretty Face: Why Portraits Should Reflect the Real You

Let’s be honest—anyone can take a technically “nice” photo these days so we can all look polished and Pinterest-ready. But the best portraits? The ones that really stick with you? They tell a story about the person in them, and that’s what makes them powerful.

Think about the people you love most: Your best friend, your sibling,  your child or your partner. When you think of them, it’s not just their face you see—it’s their laugh, their quirks, the way they light up when they talk about something they’re passionate about. That’s what a truly great portrait should capture. Not just how someone looks, but who they are.

A good portrait is like a visual biography. You can tell when someone loves music because they’re holding a guitar or maybe wearing headphones. You can spot a book lover when there’s a well-worn copy of their favorite novel nearby, and a coffee or tea lover when they’re cradling a favourite mug that’s been scratched up a bit through countless trips through the dishwasher. These details might seem small, but they speak volumes.

When a portrait includes personal elements—whether it’s interests, passions or favourite things—it instantly feels more real. I like the word “authentic”.  It draws people in. It gives them something to connect with. And if you’re the one in the photo, it makes the image feel more you. You’re not just posing. You’re being seen.

It’s also incredibly meaningful on a personal level. Years from now, you (or your loved ones) won’t just want to remember what you looked like at a certain age—they’ll want to remember what you loved, how you felt, and what made you you. Portraits that reflect your personality become time capsules, full of life and meaning.

So, if you’re thinking about getting portraits taken, don’t worry about what you think will make you look “perfect”.  Think about what matters to you and let’s incorporate that into your images.



Because in the end, a great portrait will show the true and interesting you. The real you.