Often times new clients ask me how they should prepare for their photo session, so I wanted to provide a few pointers on things that can help you prepare.  Before I begin, please remember this is your session so it should reflect your personality!

Tip 1:  Wear Colors that Compliment Your Skin Tone

Do you have a favorite color?  Do you have a color that you wear and receive a lot of compliments?  Choose the color(s) that make you feel your best and that compliment the location where we will be shooting.  If we are shooting in a grassy field in the Fall, choose colors that compliment your skin and the environment of your session.  In this photo, Joy’s dress was a nice contrast to the blue train cars and in this photo I wanted the emphasis to be on her for this particular shot.

Tip 2: Consider the Environment Where Your Session will be Held

My portrait sessions are typically held outdoors, but sometimes your type of portrait may call for an indoor session.  Please plan accordingly.  For Lacoya’s headshot session, we chose an indoor location due to her desire to create a more professional look.  She was able to prepare her outfit based on this type of session and this particular environment.  We will discuss and agree on our location to help with your plans.

From this outdoor session, Robin and Bill wanted to tie in their love of sports, so the grassy field was appropriate for this shot in their jerseys.

Tip 3: Avoid Large Logos, Busy Patterns, or Common Outfits.

Some people have favorite designers and that’s great.  However, try and avoid wearing large logos because we want the focus of your session to be on you and not the person or company that designed your clothing.  The same hold true for busy patterns.  They tend to distract the eye from the focal point of the photo, so it’s best to find clothing that does not do this.  Common outfits that are worn for sessions are white shirts and jeans or white shirts and khakis.  While it creates a lasting look for the photos as you display them in your home, it isn’t always the most flattering option. In the next two photos, the Blakeney family incorporated a little twist on the white shirts and jeans by adding blazers and color!

 

Tip 4: Wear Make-Up if You are Able

Because the camera tends to wash out the face, I always remind my female clients to wear make-up.  I have many that don’t wear make-up in their day-to-day lives but I really encourage it for your session because the camera tends to flatten or wash out your face, and my goal is to have your face stand out.  If you wear make-up, please apply it a little heavier than you normally would so that the camera can pick it up. In this photo, mom- Shaunta’, doesn’t have on much make-up but it’s just enough to bring out her eyes and smile.

I hope this helps you determine what types of ideas to incorporate into your portrait session.  If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me before your session!