A well-executed portrait is expected to show the inner essence of the subject (from the artist's point of view) or a flattering representation, not just a literal likeness. As Aristotle stated, "The aim of Art is to present not the outward appearance of things, but their inner significance; for this, not the external manner and detail, constitutes true reality."[1] Artists may strive for photographic realism or an impressionistic similarity in depicting their subject, but this differs from a caricature which attempts to reveal character through exaggeration of physical features. The artist generally attempts a representative portrayal, as Edward Burne-Jones stated, "The only expression allowable in great portraiture is the expression of character and moral quality, not anything temporary, fleeting, or accidental."

Portraits are an artistic way of representing people. There are different modes of creating portraits; from traditional oil painting to sculptures, photographs, and other forms of media. In most cases, portraits show part figures, usually from head to shoulders, however, there is no restriction for having whole figures as portraits. They can be an individual portrait or a group portrait.

Portrait photography is also known as portraiture. It is a kind of photography where the artist holds the camera upright in a way that the longer edge runs up and down; that’s a portrait orientation. The aim of portrait photography is to capture the essence and personality of the person or group being photographed, using several lighting effects, poses, and backdrops.