How to Get the Most Out of Your Portrait Sessions

A Quick Style Guide

Clients frequently ask me about how they can prepare for their session. Here are some quick and easy guidelines to help you get gorgeous photos.

First and foremost - be comfortable! If you are not wearing something that makes you feel good, your pictures will show it. Have you ever seen the face of a woman in painful high heels? For location shoots, clothing that isn't too precious to get dirty (by sitting on an old tree trunk for example) is best, since a great photo sometimes requires a unique perspective. Weddings, of course, are the obvious exception.

Make-up can be applied somewhat heavier than for usual wear. The bright lights of a studio strobe minimize the effects of makeup and so it ends up looking more natural in the photo. For men, having a recent haircut and shave creates a sharp and handsome look.

You are welcome to bring a few meaningful props to your session! A child's special toy or equipment from a favorite hobby can add an incredibly personal touch to your photos.

If you are having a group session done, we recommend everyone wear a similar color. For example, everyone can wear different shirts, but all are blue. Perfectly matching clothing is not necessary unless you would like a more formal look to the portrait. Busy patterns should generally be avoided or used only in small doses.

Sessions are generally relaxed and informal. Children's sessions are kept short, an hour or less. Kids are so naturally beautiful and genuine that I will often have the children walk around in a picturesque area while I photograph them simply being themselves. For larger or mixed-age groups, I do some gentle directing and placement to ensure that everyone looks their best in the shot.