Radical Imaging Photography – Gold Coast Event & Portrait Photographer

Portraits with a difference


Environmental Portraiture is a style of photography that captures a person in their natural environment, often highlighting the relationship between the individual and their surroundings.


Unlike traditional studio portraits, environmental portraiture emphasizes context and atmosphere, using the environment to tell a story about the subject. 


Environmental portrait of collector and his Masters of the Universe collection
A vintage ventriloquist dummy in a suit being held against a backdrop of collectible displays.
Environmental portrait of collector and his Beatles collection of books, music and memorabilia
Black and white portrait of two people in denim jackets in an indoor setting with railing details.
An extensive collection of Goosebumps memorabilia and toys displayed on crowded shelves.
Artistic portrait against vibrant graffiti background featuring bold colors and urban style.
Aerial view of a person lying among a circle of arranged bicycles in a garden setting.
Record store employee browsing through vinyl collection in shop with colorful backdrop.
Artist working on a street art mural using spray paint tools against a colorful wall.
Collector shows off anime figures and Dragon Ball tattoo while wearing character t-shirt in display room.
A wide-angle view of a room filled with vintage horror and pop culture collectibles.
Group of cyclists posing with their bikes against a tropical backdrop.
Person with red hair examining items in warm lighting at a workbench.
Black and white fisheye photo showing someone sitting on a parked Triumph motorcycle in front of a building.

Tips and Tricks for Environmental Portraiture


As a photographer I will be there to guide you through the process and suggest locations and the ideal time of day.


Here are some suggestions from the internet. (and me chiming in with some extra info)


Key characteristics of environmental portraiture:

  • Natural settings: Photos are taken in real-world locations, such as homes, workplaces, or outdoor environments. (Yes. That sounds great but some extra lighting can enhance the images)
  • Contextual relevance: The environment is chosen to reflect the subject's personality, interests, or profession. (see some examples above)
  • Storytelling: The composition and lighting are used to create a narrative or evoke a mood. (a series of images from the same shoot can also help tell the story)
  • Authenticity: The goal is to capture a genuine and unposed moment. (It can be a bit of a mix. There is always a bit of prepartaion required. Capturing you by surprise may not result in the most flattering images)
  • Depth of field: Shallow depth of field is often used to isolate the subject from the background, drawing attention to their interaction with the environment. (and a deep depth of field can show the items in the environment that help tell the story. Variety is the spice of life)


Examples of environmental portraiture:

  • A photographer capturing a scientist in their laboratory, surrounded by equipment and experiments. 
  • A portrait of a musician performing on stage, with the audience and lighting creating a dynamic atmosphere.
  • A photo of a farmer working in their field, showcasing the connection between the individual and the land.
  • A portrait of a child playing in a park, capturing the joy and innocence of childhood.


Environmental portraiture is a versatile style that can be used to create a wide range of images, from intimate and personal to dramatic and epic.