Portrait Tips - Part 7: Chances are...

Rounding out our Portrait DO's and DON'Ts, are just a couple of extra things that might make things easier and result in great family portraits.  

Chances are... your child will fall down the morning of picture day. If a small lump or scratch is making you want to postpone your appointment, give us a call first.  Chances are... we can touch out the scratch and you won't have to rearrange your schedule for another day.

Chances are... you are self conscious about wrinkles, age spots, less than perfect teeth, or something similar. We understand, we feel the same way.  When you make your appointment, let us know what you are worried about and we can set your mind at ease. Touch ups are available for a small fee.

Portrait Tips - Part 6: DO's and DON'Ts (Dress and Grooming)

Did you know there are calendars published made of family portraits gone wrong.  The question - What were they thinking? comes to mind when you look at the images.  Now that probably wouldn't happen to you but here are a few things that you might not think about when scheduling your family portrait.  Following these simple tips might keep you from saying "What was I  thinking?"

-Do wear complimentary clothing for groups.
-Don't be exactly matching.

     Use similar shades of one color, throw in one or two patterns but don't stress about everyone having the exact same color shirt.  

-Do wear colors that make you feel good.
-Don't wear restrictive clothing that limits poses.

     You know how you feel better about yourself the day you where your favorite shirt?  That comes across in pictures.  If you are self conscious about what you are wearing the camera will pick that up.  Feel good and you will look good.

-Do shave or trim facial hair.
-Don't get a hair cut/style/color the day before pictures.

     Not following this rule is a recipe for disaster. Enough said!

-Do pay attention to details such as chipped nail polish and matching socks.
-Don't wear clothes with decals or logos that will quickly date your photographs.
-Do use accessories such as scarves, necklaces, and earrings. 

    Sometimes the little things matter.

We hope this helps you while planning your family portraits.  

Portrait Tips - Part 5: Simplicity

Generally, kids (and sometimes grown-ups) don't like long sessions or multiple outfit changes. Keep it simple and joyful by not cramming too much into one session. Bringing a friend or relative who won't be in the photos to help you get your child's attention and natural smiles can be very helpful. 

However, too many people in the background calling your child's name in different directions can be very distracting. We may have to limit how many people are in the studio by rotating your helpers.

Stay tuned for our next tip: Do's and Don'ts (Grooming and Clothing)