Portraiture and the construction of Identity

Gloria Swanson
by Edward Steichen, 1924

How does the subjects' body language, facial expression, gaze etc. influence the way we "read" their personality?
This image makes it difficult to decipher much about the subjects' personality. The best sense we get of it is from her gaze; it being powerful and direct leads us to assume a strong personality.
Compare the photographic strategies for portraiture in the two eras of Vanity Fair.
The technique of using lace in front of the subject works well and is well lit to avoid shadows falling on her face. Shadows do however accentuate the edges of her face, and around her nose, lips etc.
How does the photographer contribute to the construction of identity?
The extremely close cropped frame and the veil over the subjects face both create an air of mystery around the subject, drawing the viewer in. Very little is conveyed about the subject, causing us to be more curious.


Julia Roberts
by Herb Ritts, 1993

How does the subjects' body language, facial expression, gaze etc. influence the way we "read" their personality?
The subjects' body language in this image extremely relaxed and seemingly natural. Her facial expression is happy and carefree and her gaze upwards and into the camera make you feel as though your part of that light environment.
Compare the photographic strategies for portraiture in the two eras of Vanity Fair.
Th lighting techniques used in this photo are much more modern, with even lighting completely covering the subject with no visible shadows.
How does the photographer contribute to the construction of identity?
The photographer has made the subject seem very at ease and happy, giving us an insight to what the subject is like. The high viewpoint makes the subject seem almost childlike and innocent in her joy.

Is portraiture of "celebrities" truthful in any way, or is it just portraying the "mask" they inhabit?
I believe that portraits of anybody, not only celebrities, may be either truthful to the individuals character or a mask to hide their true personality. This is dependent upon both the way the photographer wants to portray the subject, and the way the subject wants to be seen.