What Makes a Portrait Great?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We've all heard it and we know it's true. So, that said, what makes a portrait great? You could ask ten people this question and you could get ten different answers. Every one has their own taste and styles. Therefore, their idea of a great portrait may be different. In my eyes what makes a portrait great is capturing the person. Not just an image of the person but everything about that person. Don't get me wrong....lighting, composition, all that stuff is important in the making of a great portrait. However, a mom and her point-and-shoot camera can capture a great portrait of her child. A great portrait goes beyond the lighting and composition. It's the split second decision to snap the photo right when you see their personality shine through. It's not a pose. It's the subject being himself. It's that smile you only see when she's doing something she loves. It's the expression that makes him look just like his grandmother. That is what makes a portrait great.