TIPS FOR A GREAT PORTRAIT

CLOTHING

Simple non-distracting colors and simple patterns are typically best. For an outdoor portrait dark colors like burgundy, navy, purple, brown, denim, evergreen, rust, and black always photograph well. Dark colors are more flattering and slimming to the wearer while light colors such as beige, tan, peach, pink, white, and yellow add bulk and mass to the subject wearing them. Especially bright colors, such as orange or red, bold stripes, checks, plaids, busy prints, and logos usually never photograph well. Earth tones are best for outdoor portraits. Dressing in layers allows for more variation, you can take your outer shirt off or unbutton it for a different look. Long sleeve dresses and shirts are MUCH better than short sleeves ESPECIALLY for your head and shoulder/traditional poses. Your face should be the focal point of your portraits. Long sleeve solids or very subtle prints are usually the most flattering in portraits.

SHOES

Shoes may show, so they should compliment your clothing. Casual poses often work well in bare feet.

MAKEUP

Makeup for photographs should be slightly heavier than normal. However, too much makeup tends to give that painted look, and too little might not show off your features. A translucent powder is helpful to eliminate shine, especially for oily skin. Since most portraits concentrate on the eyes, make them look their best. Don't forget a comb or brush and maybe some hair product.

HAIR

This is typically not the best time to try a new hair style! Go with your normal style, something you're comfortable with

NAILS

Your hands may be shown in your portraits. Make sure nails are freshly polished or manicured. We often show feet as well.

PROPS

We will work with any props you may want to bring. Bring your musical instrument, helmet, jersey, a football, cars or pets. If you have something in mind, just let us know before you session.

SUNTANS

Sunburn can be a problem. It causes facial shine, red noses and cheeks, strap marks and peeling, which are fixable but at an additional cost.

TIMING

Outdoor portraits are best taken when the sun is not shining brightly overhead. The absolute best times are during the first few hours after sunrise and during the last few hours before sunset. As the time pushes closer to high noon the lighting becomes less desirable. Somewhat overcast days can work well. We usually like to schedule sessions during these times.

SENIOR YEARBOOK PORTRAIT

Check with your school for your specific yearbook clothing and background requirements. Also bring the photo size and deadline needed by your school.

ATTITUDE

Plan on showing us smiles and the serious side. But most of all, relax and have fun during your photo session.

CHILD PORTRAITS

CLOTHING CHANGES

Limit clothing changes to 1 or 2 outfits. More than that makes an unenjoyable experience for the child. Bring extra outfits “just in case.”

BRING PROPS

If your child has a favorite toy or stuffed animal, please bring it to the studio.

TIMING

Make appointment time that best suits your child's schedule. We get happier faces that way.

FAMILY PORTRAITS

CLOTHING

Coordinate a look with each member of the group. Coordinating solid color tops with jeans or similar pants works well. No one should wear white unless everyone is wearing white. Complement each other as much as possible and keep things simple. Everyone does not have to match. Comfortable clothing usually produces more natural and happy expressions.

More tips coming soon!

lisa@pixbylisa.com

Thank You! for visiting Photography by Lisa ...... We are located in Mount Morris, Michigan / (810) 241-0243