Hot Tips for Cool Portraits

What do I wear?

When choosing your outfits, keep in mind your personal style and pick clothes you love. You’ll want as much variety as possible so always bring more outfits than you think you’ll need. Don’t count out “seasonal” clothes such as: a sweater or sweatshirt for a summer/Lakeside session. This will add that variety we are looking for. Of course, wear outfits that are comfortable, but try to avoid sleeveless or very short sleeves (especially for the “Classic” or “Traditional” sessions.) This can be very unattractive. Most seniors choose a mix of casual and dressy clothes. Just put a little extra thought into coordinating your clothing with your session styles and you’re on your way to great senior portraits!

Girls: Bring the outfits and colors you feel best in. Dresses, (even formals), solid colored sweaters and lace offer a more traditional look. Go for bright colors, skirts, jeans or shorts for the more casual you. An “all-white” outfit is nice for our “high key” wall or wall or beachside portraits. While black is the color of choice for our new Fashion B&W or Brown-Tone Sessions. It is also a good idea to wear a little more make-up than normal and bring your make-up kit with you for any last minute touch-ups.

Guys: For your traditional portraits, a dark suit or sport coat and tie is great. Medium to dark colored solid colored sweaters photograph nicely as well. For those casual and outdoor looks, comfort is the rule...jeans, shirts, sweaters, shorts or sweatshirts.

Shoes: Full length portraits will show your shoes so they should complement your clothing and be clean and or polished. Some seniors prefer the barefoot look for some session styles.

What about hair, suntanning and glasses?

Hair: If you’re having your hair cut or permed, schedule it at least one week before your session to give it a chance to “fill in” a little. Don’t try a radically different haircut, style or hair color. Chances are you won’t feel it expresses the “real you.” Don’t cut it until after you’ve seen your previews too!

Suntan: Keep your tan even. Strap marks will show on bare shoulder poses and cannot be retouched. Don’t overdo the sun for your portrait. It looks great, but use in moderation. Sunburn is a real problem...reschedule your appointment if burned. Although we cannot guarantee a new appointment time during peak season.

Glasses: If you wear glasses most of the time, you’ll want to wear them for your portraits. To eliminate glare or reflections, call your optician and arrange to borrow a pair of empty frames like yours, or have the lenses removed from your own glasses. Most opticians will gladly do this if you give them plenty of notice. This is the most important way to improve your portraits if you wear glasses. It doesn’t take much effort and it will make your portraits look much better!

What else can I bring?

Here’s where the fun begins! No idea is too crazy, so bring in items that show the various facets of your personality. We only try a few poses with it, so what have you got to lose? Go for it! *Bring in your favorite hat, musical instrument, pet, sunglasses, letter jacket, hobby, uniform, sports activity, wheels, or whatever you feel shows the REAL YOU. Don’t forget summertime activities, too: swimsuit, fishing, boating or skiing gear.

What can I expect at my Photo Session?

Expect to have a GREAT time, because you will! Being a little nervous at first is understandable but you will soon relax with our easy-going manner and super fun photographer!

• Plan on arriving 15 minutes before your session to freshen up and check in your outfits. We will spend that time with you to go over all of your desired sessions and clothing choices and answer any last minute questions.
• Bring your favorite CDs for our camera room stereo or choose one of ours for familiar tunes to help you “get in the mood”! We like all kinds of music, so don’t be shy!
• Be sure to wear one of the outfits for your first session to save time. Lori will let you know which session will be done first so you’ll know what to wear. Always bring more clothing than you think you’ll need to give us plenty to choose from. We will help you pick the ones that will look best.
• Please remember your session fees and any special coupons. Cash, checks, Visa and MasterCard are accepted.

If you are unsure of something or have any questions, please ASK! We want you to feel comfortable during your session so we can create the BEST PORTRAITS of your lifetime!!