QUALITIES OF A GREAT PORTRAIT more than a Likeness. Established portrait photographers understand that a portrait is much more than a likeness. A portrait should communicate something about the nature of a person. This is one of the things that separates a great portrait from a mere likeness— even a flattering one. While it is impossible to obtain a clear understanding of a person’s complex character from a single image, it is important that the portrait reflects a depth of character and conveys a story or insight about the subject’s inner self. This is the essence of fine portraiture.