Remember that planning goes a long way toward making your portrait session successful. The portrait is a collaboration between the photographer and the subject. Please take a few moments to look over the following suggestions to see how you may participate in the planning of your successful portrait.
Choose a color theme that simplifies the look of your portrait. Too many busy patterns and colors are especially distracting. Colors should be harmonious.
Coordinate the clothing for all subjects in a group portrait so that one person will not dominate the scene. Color coordination lends harmony to the portrait.
Dark clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size. Choosing solid colors is usually flattering to everyone, a busy pattern is distracting.
Shoes and socks are often overlooked as a significant aspect of portrait clothing. They should compliment, not contrast. Carefully consider your apparel from head to toe as a variety of full length and close up poses may be taken.
Dress for Small Children, while cute, play clothes detract from your professionally made portrait.
Dress for Outdoor Portraits
As a background, the outdoors is very busy. It is important to choose only one or two theme colors. While blues are excellent all year, white, ivory, khaki and salmon are great against lush green foliage. Burgundy, brown, tan and gray are nice late in the season. Busy backgrounds and busy clothes result in hard to find faces. Jeans and sweaters always look good outdoors.
Try to get a good night’s sleep before the session and drink lots of water. Both will reduce puffy eyes.
Remember:
1) Simplicity is the best policy.
2) Avoid busy patterns, prints and bright colors.
3) Wear solid colors.
4) Be selective when wearing yellow or green as they can adversely affect skin color.
5) Shoes and socks should match the rest of the outfit.
6) Guys remember that a fresh shave is better than a 5’Oclock shadow.
7) When it doubt, stick with the classic styles. They will always look good.
Feel free to discuss any questions or ideas you may have in advance of the session.
