Lanfranco moved away from the rigid structures of his teacher, Annibale Carracci. He developed a style defined by controluce effects, where light sources appear behind subjects to create a glowing perimeter. This technique created a sense of space that felt less solid and more fluid than the work of his contemporaries. In 1616, he painted the dome of the Buongiovanni Chapel, which many historians consider the first true Baroque dome decoration. His later works, such as The Triumph of a Roman Emperor, show his ability to handle large groups of figures with a sense of energy.

Collectors today find value in the dramatic lighting and physical presence of Lanfranco's compositions. His sketches, including Reclining Youth Looking Upwards, reveal a technical precision that balances his larger, more theatrical paintings. Prints of his work bring a sense of Roman history and Baroque drama into a room. His depictions of classical subjects like A Roman General Addressing his Soldiers provide a formal yet active aesthetic. These pieces work well in spaces that require a sense of scale and historical weight.