Environmental portraiture

Environmental portraits don’t have to squeeze in a sweeping view of a person’s surroundings to capture a sense of place; this striking image creates a powerful impact using just a few hints of this man’s world. Technically there are some satisfying touches, such as the circular motif, the contrast of textures and the balance of light and shade. But it's the man's hard-to-read expression that's at the heart of the image. Part documentary, part portrait, it's a picture that makes us want to find out more.

This is a beautiful environmental portrait that oozes Cuban character and charm. Details in the room, from the worn chair backs to the collection of items on the table and the wall, help to build a picture of the portrait sitter's life, and the contrast of formality and informality is captivating. The soft colour palette, equally soft light and judicious level of editing ensure that the image retains its natural feel, something that would have been lost in less talented hands.

If you want to try your hand at environmental portraits, then photographing people in their place of work is a great way to develop your skills. When the subject of the picture is as characterful as this one, you really can’t go wrong. The magic here comes from the contrast between the butcher’s wonderful eyes and the pig’s lack of them. The photographer has done an excellent job in the short time they had available, and has displayed excellent handling of the exposure and colour palette.