Bring a change of clothing. It may give our photographer a chance to help improve your portrait. You may also want to do formal and casual groupings that require a variety of outfits.

Open necked shirts photograph better when accompanied by a sport coat or sweater. Dark clothing tends to be slimming while bold patterns and prints draw the eye. Sleeveless casual dresses should be avoided. Shoulder pads on women can be a distraction on individual portraits while short skirts and/or white stockings tend to stand out in a group photograph. Remember that in group portraits everyone’s legs and feet may show so plan accordingly.

Khaki pants photograph very "summery" or informal. Photographic lighting also tends to pick up every wrinkle in the pants which can spoil an otherwise formally dressed composition.

White shoes on children are recommended if you plan on having them wear white clothing and be photographed on our popular white background. Dark shoes on the white background draw your eye and can be distracting as you view the finished photograph. 

Coordinate clothing styles and colors

Combine no more than 3 colors in one group and keep in mind the room where you will be displaying the print when you plan your clothing color and style.

Getting the Best Expression From Children

When planning for the photo session with your children it is important to be enthusiastic with them. We recommend however that you do not mention the word "SMILE". When trying to smile for the camera, many children try too hard and look uncomfortable. We have wonderful ways to get the expressions you want and also make this a fun time for them. We also strongly encourage you to schedule the session at their best time of day.

Props and Sets

When bringing children into the studio, you might want to bring some of your favorite props. Special children’s chairs, dolls, teddy bears and toys will make for more varied poses and originality in the finished portrait. When choosing them, remember that clothing should be color-coordinated to the toys.

Groom hair carefully

Correcting stray hairs on the finished prints is expensive and often impossible. Men’s faces should be freshly shaven. A five o’clock shadow cannot be removed from finished prints effectively.

Plan your make-up carefully

Slightly heavier than normal make-up for women is recommended. Additional eye liner, and cream base-coat smoothed over the face can reduce the need for art work in the final portrait.

Collaboration & Planning

We would enjoy the opportunity to work with you on the planning of this session to create just the images that you expect. Please call if you would like to go over your ideas for the session and we would be happy to discuss them with you.