Tips For Your Session

A Few Tips For Your Upcoming Portrait Session.

When you invest in a professional photographer you want to take the time to do everything on your side of the equation to ensure the best possible Portrait. Below I have listed a few guide lines. While they are just guidelines and there is always the exception, take the time to think them through. I will discuss these items with you during your consultation so you will be rewarded with a timeless portrait that can be appreciated and enjoyed for generations to come.

1. Coordinate those clothes. Individuality is great for an individual portrait, but if there is more than one person in the photograph then it is time to coordinate colors and styles. If all the participants are wearing similar colors they will all tie in together to create a much more pleasing image. The important thing is to not have any contrasting colors or shades. When there is a lot of contrasting shades – say a black and white striped shirt – that contrast will distract from the most important part of the portrait, your faces. PLEASE DO NOT wear clothes with stripes, logos, writing, or bright colors! Even something as innocuous as a pair of white socks with dark shoes will ruin an otherwise beautiful portrait. As with anything, there are exceptions to the rules, especially with teens. Take the time to discuss your upcoming portrait with us before the shoot. It will pay dividends and result in a timeless and treasured portrait.
2. Long sleeves and long pants are a must – they just photograph better.
3. Check to make sure your child's face is clean. Crumbs from the last cracker he or she ate may go unnoticed during the shoot in a dark studio, but will definitely show up on that otherwise beautiful 30x40 wall print.
4. Take the time to moisturize your child's face, starting several days before the shoot. We live in a dry climate and chapped skin and lips will show in the photograph.
5. Consider accessories. Hats, gloves, ties, flowers, bows, and other such things can ad interest and beauty to a photograph. Other things to consider, especially for teens, are accessories that show your interests. Musical instruments, hobby related items, skis, ball gloves, horses, cars, etc. are all things that will help to show who you are.
6. This is NOT a time to change your hair style. Guys - it is generally not good to get a hair cut the day before your session. Gals - if you try a new style you might not like it and it will be there in your portrait for all to see for years.
7. You might not want to wear the latest fads in clothing. Be a little conservative so that your portrait will last a life time and not show off the era in which the photo was shot.
8. Allow plenty of time so you are not rushed. Just relax – we are going to have fun. It is my job to create an artistic portrait and it will be much easier if you are relaxed. Bring some good jokes and let's have a great time at your portrait shoot!