Preparing for Your Portrait

Remember the objective of this portrait ... a beautiful, sensitive portrait which shows the personality and relationships of everyone involved. For this reason, keep the clothing very subtle, but be careful not to dress anyone in an outfit that is not an expression of his or her individual personality. If you are creating a family portrait, avoid having any one person “jump” out of the portrait as a result of being dressed in a lighter or brighter outfit than anyone else. Work for balance, harmony, and color coordination. If you have any questions about colors, please call our studio and we will be glad to assist you.

When you discuss the upcoming portrait session with your children, please don’t instruct them to “smile” or “do exactly as the photographer says.” Simply let them know how excited you are about the photography and leave the rest to me.

One of the keys to a successful and beautiful photograph is my ability to help you feel at ease during the session. So don’t worry about anything - all of you will have a great time.

If there is anyone in your family whom is particularly worried about the session or has a particular concern, please let me know in private before the session. There are many techniques and special methods which I can use to minimize these problems as long as I have been advised of them.

Our objective is to create a wonderful portrait which you will treasure forever.

Plan on spending 1 1/2 to 2 hours for the portrait and viewing

Important Clothing Information

General: Simple plain outfits work best, as they are not distracting. Our aim is to produce a timeless, beautiful portrait and the best way to begin is to remember one word - simplicity. Your clothes should be plain and simple, not loud and busy.

Glasses: If you wear glasses and wish to have them on for the portrait, it would be helpful to have a pair of empty rims for the portrait session. Just don’t drive to the studio wearing them! Eye glass lenses not only catch light reflections, but can also deform the faceline in some portraits.

Women: Eye shadow should be applied lightly and with care - the center point of interest in a fine portrait is the eyes. Apply mascara on both upper and lower lashes. Wear your other make-up as usual, but bring it with you for touch-ups or slight modifications. We suggest that your hair should be worn as normal, don’t try any new styles out just for the portrait.

Men: Be sure to shave just prior to your appointment, as there is no way to hide a 5:00 shadow in photography. If you are in need of a hair cut, get it done a week to ten days prior to your appointment so that you won’t have that “just cut” look.

Children: Natural is the best way to go. If haircuts are needed, a week to ten days prior to your appointment is fine. Minor scratches or blemishes can be removed with retouching.