Landscape versus portrait photography comes down to which way your photo is orientated, either horizontally or vertically.

Here’s what you oughta know.

What Is Portrait Orientation?

Guy holding a canon camera on an angle

When a photo is taller than it is wide, it’s considered to have a portrait orientation.

It’s commonly used to take portrait photographs of people, which is why it shares the same name.

What Is Landscape Orientation?

Two portrait photos, one of a man and one of the sydney opera house

When a photo is wider than it is tall, it’s considered to have a landscape orientation.

By default, digital cameras and film cameras are designed to take photos in landscape mode.

However, choosing the right orientation can help create a well-composed shot and make your image stand out.

Landscape photograph of a desert

If it’s destined for the internet, there are a few restrictions that will help you decide.

Taking photographs of a person is a good example.

Compare this to if you took a photo of a person in landscape.

A hand holding a phone displaying an instagram photo

A city skyline, for example, will look impressive when taken in landscape.

Another trick is to study the natural lines inside the composition and see whether they run horizontally or vertically.

A waterfall is an interesting example.

A laptop on a desk displaying a website that uses a landscape photo on the landing page

Portrait photos also look great for tall buildings or roads that lead into the distance.

Which Orientation Should You Use?

Making the right call can elevate your photo and frame the subject in the best light.

The same photo of a woman in portrait vs landscape

It’s worth keeping in mind where the photo is destined since apps and websites have different requirements.

Two portrait photos, one of a waterfall and one of a desert road