Getting Ready for Your Session

Most people have alot of questions about their portrait session- what do I wear, what do I need to bring with me, what do I need to do before hand?  Hopefully, I can answer some of these questions for you here, that can help before, during and after.

I always suggest that you bring at least 3 head-to-toe outfits with you, to your session.  Bringing head-to-toe outfits means don't forget the jewelry, belts and shoes.  We usually will do several shots for each outfit, a close-up, one about 3/4 length and usually a full-length, either standing or sitting.

As far as clothing- think about what you want the pictures for.  Do you want to give Grandma one, ooh, then you better bring something she'd like for you to wear, something a little conservative.  If it's for your honey, definitely something sexy, if it's for yourself or your friends, bring something you absolutely love when you wear it.

There are no bad colors, if you really like the color.  Most of the time if you like the color, it's because you look great in it.  If this is a family portrait, you don't have to wear identical colors, but it's a good idea to try for the same "color family"- for instance you can all wear different hues of reds, or different blues or maybe all pastel colors, for example.  Try to tie things together and the best, easiest way is with JEANS!  Everyone looks great in jeans, or even khaki pants.  When all else fails, you can never go wrong with white T-shirts and jeans.

There are a few things to avoid if possible- Busy patterns, horizontal stripes, old shoes, really tight clothing.  Also, for the guys- make sure you shave beforehand, try to get your hair cut at least a few days before your session, so you hair has time to relax. 

 Most often the camera does add a few pounds, if you're very concerned about it, try to wear darker clothes, solid colors. You can use bright shiny jewely and objects to catch the eye and divert attention.  Wear simple lines, fitted jackets and heels. I will work with you during your session if things are "hanging out" a little too much.  Please don't be offended if I ask you to suck it in, you'll appreciate it, when your portraits look great.  It happens sometimes because after a bit you feel relaxed and that's what you need, to be is relaxed!  When you relax, your smile is natural, your eyes are warm and inviting and your true spirit shines through.

What about the kids???

Make sure to schedule your session after they've had their nap, or way before they need one. .....

The best advice I can give to parents about their kids is- try not to be too controlling. If they're very young, they like to explore and we can take advantage of that.  The scene may change several times during the session in order to keep them interested in the things that are in front of the camera.  They'll run around being themselves and that's the best thing they can do. If necessary, I may "bribe" them to sit still for me, but I'll definitely keep a limit on it.  I try small candy pieces or small toys if necessary. 

As far as outfits- bring at least two, maybe three.  As long as your kids are having a good time, it will be easy to change outfits and keep things rolling.  Once they've gotten cranky it's hard to recover, so take the time to put on their first outfit, before you even leave the house and try to keep them clean- put the baby's bib on, don't give them kool-aid, bring them water and dry snacks.  We have bottled water and snacks here at the studio, if they get hungry, too.

If we're working on a family portrait with the kids, you just worry about you in the shot, hang on to them and we'll work on getting them to smile.  Our main focus is getting them to have fun, so don't stress yourself out!  We'll work on getting them to smile, naturally.

However, PLEASE don't tell them to say "cheese", if they're having fun, you'll see natural smiles, the ones they give you all day long, those are the ones that melt your heart, the ones we want to capture for you. 

Above all, try to just relax and have fun with it.  The kids will enjoy it if you're enjoying yourself.  If they see you're having fun, it makes things alot easier for them, too.

Don't forget, we can discuss alot of things at your consultation visit before your photo session.  You can make a list of questions if you need to, we'll go over it all, so you know what to expect!

Have fun and I'll see you soon.  Call me at 918-850-9878.