Preparing for your Portrait Session

Dress to match your sofa, of course! I’m only half kidding. Think about it. Where do you want these images displayed? They are art pieces, right? So, we will fashion your session to match the decor of the room you are displaying them in. This includes the location of the shoot, as well as what you wear in the images. You need to decide what style you are going for and embrace it. So, decide whether you hope to hang a large canvas above your fireplace, or whether you want a series of smaller black and white images matted in black frames in your hallway. Your art pieces will make more of an impact if they match the design of your home. So, be intentional in your styling choices.

If you would like help deciding what direction to go, please get in touch with me before your session and I can help. The goal of this session is to create beautiful art for your home with you as the centerpiece.

Also, coordinate with your partner, but do not dress alike. Think of one or two colors and tones and compliment each other’s outfits. Don’t be afraid to add punches of color with fun accessories, shoes, scarves, etc.

Tips About What to Wear

  • Avoid patterns and logos. Stick to solid colors. Think polo or button down shirts for guys and feminine dresses or blouses for girls. Don’t forget your favorite pair of jeans.
  • Add a splash of color. Gentlemen, try a colored polo or shirt with your jeans. Ladies, wear color in your shirt or dress or a pop of color with your shoes or scarf.
  • A good fit. Make sure your clothes fit well and they are not wrinkled.
  • Accessorize. Add some of your own style with your accessories. Ladies, add in earrings, necklace, bracelet or cocktail ring. Just keep it simple and don’t over accessorize. Guys, a scarf, belt, or hat could be fun options. But be sure not to arrive wearing the hat. We’ll add it later!

Tips for Ladies

  • Undergarments. You will want to be sure to wear undergarments that won’t show through your clothing. Flesh colored is best. Also, if you are wearing a strapless dress, be sure to bring a strapless bra.
  • Nails. Your fingers and toes will be in your photos. Be sure your nail polish isn’t chipping off.
  • Makeup. Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. About like you might wear in the evening. Mascara should be clean and contain no clumps.

Tips for Gentlemen

  • Clothing. Be sure to bring the right shoes for your outfits.
  • Shaving. Please make sure you are clean-shaven if that is the look you want. Retouching stubble costs extra and is still does not look as good as a clean shave.
  • Hair. Need a trim? Try to have your hair cut at least a week before your shoot, so it doesn’t look like you just got a haircut in your portraits.

Props

While I do love simple, modern portraiture, I’ll never frown on a few fun props. Things like blankets, a picnic basket, guitar, or balloons would be fun ways to help us create a visual narrative of your relationship. You can be creative as you choose. A stylize picnic in a field playing guitar, drinking coffees in a park, or reading your favorite books on a blanket are just a few pays to personalize and stylize your session.