Photo Session Tips

Photo Session Tips

General
It is very important to get a good night sleep before your session, also drinking lots of fluids will improve your skin texture.
Simplicity is the key to a successful portrait.


Clothing
Think about what type of portrait you want and bring in your favorite outfits that capture that look.
If you are taking full length photos, don't forget shoes, hosiery, etc.
Your face should be the focal point of your portraits.
Long sleeved solids or very subtle prints are usually the most flattering in portraits.
Remember, if you are self-conscious about your arms do not wear sleeveless tops.
Earth tones are best for outdoor portraits, since we can drop you into an outdoor background if you request it before your photo session.
Traditional styles will stand the test of time and keep your portrait looking fresh for years to come.
Busy patterns and bright/loud colors can be very distracting in your portraits.
Avoid large and bold patterns that might tend to draw attention away from your face.
Solid colors are best but avoid solid white outfits.
In a group or family portrait, proper clothing coordination is critical. Do not mix casual and formal attire and choose clothing inthe same tonal ranges (i.e. do not mix light and dark values) so that no single member stands out.


Props
Props can help to show your personality and record the types of activities you are involved in. Be sure to bring some of your own props to your portrait session.
Here are some ideas:

· Flowers
· Musical Instrument
· Jacket
· Uniform
· Hats
· Sports Equipment
· Stuffed Animals
· Sunglasses
· Beach Props


Make-Up and Hair Styles
Don't forget your necessities...makeup, hair brush, hair spray, etc.
Be careful when applying foundation. You do not want your face to be one color and your upper body another.
Apply makeup as you would if you were going to a formal occassion in the evening. In other words, using a bit more than you would during the day.
Use enough powder base for a matte finish to avoid any shiny or oily appearance on your face.
Pay special attention to your eyes, as they will be the most important part of your portrait.
Eye shadow should be a lighter color to bring your eyes forward.
If you plan to get your hair cut, do it at least 1-2 weeks before your appointment.
Allow two weeks for a fresh perm or color to relax.
Don't experiment with new hair styles the day of your session.
Gentlemen remember to to shave before your session...a "five o'clock shadow" cannot be removed from the finished portrait.


Accessories
If you wear glasses all of the time, you'll probably want them in your portraits but please keep in mind that light will glare and reflect on the lenses.
Also, tinted lenses may darken under studio lighting. It is very difficult to remove the glare once a photo is produced so it may be best to avoid it entirely by removing your glasses or removing the lenses temporarily from your frames.
Items such as watches, glasses, and other tight fitting jewelry or clothing can leave red marks on your skin and can take up to an hour to disappear. Please be sure you remove them at least an hour before showing up for your appointment. Fine watches, rings, necklaces, pins and bracelets are always in good taste and should be coordinated with each outfit you bring.
If your hands will be in the photograph, be sure your nails are manicured.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.