TIPS AND TRICKS TO LOOK YOUR BEST

 

The best portraits are those that bring out your natural inward and

outward beauty. Making sure that clothing doesn't draw attention

away from you is essential to a timeless image. Here are a few tips

to help!

 

•Avoid stripes, plaids, and patterns. Solids photograph much better.

If doing family or group photos, coordinating is nice, but that doesn't

mean that everything needs to be the same (such as khakis and white

shirts). A variety of colours is interesting--as long as they look nice

together.

•For outdoor sessions, remember there may not be a fancy place to

change. Dress comfortably. Bring a mirror to outdoor sessions for

quick touch ups.

•Bring a bottle of water. Outdoor sessions can be hot, and depending

on the session could be long. Water will help keep you energized!

 

ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS

•Seniors doing outfit changes should bring a variety of colors and styles, even if you will only be changing a couple of times. Sometimes the background will dictate a choice, and you want to be prepared.

•Avoid clothing that has wording on it except for your own school logo.

•Vary the dress level. Bring some dressy, some medium and some casual.

•Some shots are close up, others are full length. Plan outfits completely, including shoes.

•Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure they are ironed.

 

HAIR AND OTHER SUCH THINGS

•Don't drastically change your hair or get it cut right before your session. Have your hair styled and ready before arrival.

•Makeup really helps, even for guys! Consider having professional makeup done. If you are doing your own make up, make it slightly heavier than normal-- about what you would wear in the evening.

•Keep your accessories simple, but if you have a fantastic pair of footwear or a hat, please bring them! They could move your shot from ordinary to WOW.

•Please feel free to bring props! They help define who you are. Even vehicles and pets are fun--but if you're bringing a pet, be sure to bring a friend to take them away or a carrier to keep them contained during the remainder of the session.

 

FOR GIRLS

•Beware of baggy clothing that makes you look larger than you are. Choose clothing that flatters you.

•Check that undergarments do not show through. Bring appropriate foundation wear for your outfits. Flesh coloured is best. If you need a strapless bra, bring one. Sliding down the straps usually shows and will distract you from being able to relax into the shoot.

•Make sure your nails are done, or that any old nailpolish is removed. Cracked and chipped polish will show! Some outdoor shots may be with bare feet, so pay attention to your tootsies as well. Neutral is best so your nails don't clash with your outfits. Having portraits taken is the perfect excuse for a mani-pedi!

 

FOR GUYS

•Docs and sandals photograph better than tennis shoes for casual poses.

•Plan your outfit down to shoes. Tennis shoes with your suit isn't a great combo for portraits

•Avoid brand names and words on your clothing. In a few years, you might not be caught dead in that particular brand!

•Shave. Reducing stubble can be done in photoshop at additional cost, but it doesn't look as good as a fresh shave. If you have a goatee that you love but your mom hates, we'll do casual shots first, then you can quickly shave it off for more formal shots that mom will appreciate.