Studio portraits of couples in the 1970s capture a unique mix of intimacy, style, and playful energy.

Unlike the stiff, formal poses of previous decades, these photos often show couples relaxed and comfortable, bringing a sense of life and personality to the studio setting.

While traditional backdrops and poses were still common, photographers and their subjects were clearly experimenting with a more natural and carefree approach, reflecting the spirit of the decade.

Fashion was a central element in these portraits, with couples often dressed in coordinated yet casual outfits.

Bell-bottom jeans, flowing blouses, and button-down shirts reflected the trends of the era while allowing a sense of ease and movement.

These images also mirrored shifting dynamics in relationships. Couples often appeared more relaxed with one another, expressing the changing attitudes toward love, marriage, and personal freedom that defined the 1970s.

Hairstyles were a statement of personality and creativity. Women’s hair ranged from ultra-short cuts like Grace Jones’ crop to extra-long, straight styles made famous by Cher.

Highlights, frosting, and sun-kissed tones became popular, while bright bleached and neon colors appeared in Punk and countercultural circles.

Farrah Fawcett’s iconic feathered hairstyle was perhaps the decade’s most recognizable look, emphasizing volume and movement by brushing hair back and outward at the sides.

Similar styles included bouncy curls, blowouts with curtain bangs, and flipped bobs.

Long, straight hair parted in the middle or to the side was also widely seen, often paired with curtain, blunt, or brow-skimming bangs.

Men’s hair in the 1970s also underwent a major transformation. Long hair, which had emerged in the 1960s, gradually became more accepted in daily life, often styled naturally tousled or curled at the ends for a polished look.

Shorter styles were rarely close-cropped, instead favoring volume through backcombing or lift.

Punk-inspired hair pushed the boundaries further, with spiked, bleached, or brightly dyed cuts making bold statements.

Afros were popular among Black men, taking forms from professional to flat-top, sportsman, and more creative shapes.

Dreadlocks gained visibility through Bob Marley and the Rastafari movement.

Facial hair became an important aspect of style, ranging from neatly trimmed sideburns to full mutton chops, handlebar mustaches, and untrimmed beards, highlighting individuality and personality.

(Photo credit: Flickr / Pinterest).