FAQ


Tips

1.  Make-up

Skin should look natural and smooth. Skin with a luminous quality and good highlights is most desirable. When using foundation, use a product that is oil based as opposed to powder. Avoid using make-up that has a sheen, use matt. Be careful not to over do it. It is very important not to use a make up with SPF in it. The SPF will cause your make up give you a over powering reflective look. This happens because the SPF reflects light back from your skin. If you have blemishes, use erase or a cover up to hid acne or blemishes.

 

2.  Outdoor portraits

Wear colours and styles that are appropriate for the environment. Earth tones photograph very well. Denims and leather styles are excellent choices. Consider sweaters, jackets & scarves or dressing in themes if a family or group. ( all jeans and white tops or jeans and black tops ) Avoid bulky looking clothing.

 

3.  Clothing

The incorrect selection of clothing may destroy many potential exciting portraits. What you wear will have a direct bearing on the effectiveness of your portrait. The proper selection of clothing can greatly enhance the personal appearance of any subject. It is extremely important that you follow our instructions and recommendations. Clothing is an extension of the person and your personality. It should be comfortable and natural without the tendency to overdress. The colours should be subtle. Earth tones ( reds, browns, greens & rusts ) photograph the best. Dark colours with little or no pattern are very complementary. Your clothing should express your personality; illustrate your lifestyle; set a mood; but not steal from your features or expression. Children are the ones most usually misdressed. As a parent you must realize that years from now the portrait must show the children as they really were, instead of the one-time candied up look. Kids look great in their grubbies, jeans, shorts, being barefoot, and even wearing clothing with patches. The key word in clothing for portraiture for both children and adults is NATURAL.

 

 4.  Couples and groups

Plan style and clothing carefully. One person dressed brighter than all others will dominate the portrait. Don't mix style! Either all formal or all casual. Dress for full length. Woman and girls should ear dark stockings. Avoid light coloured shoes, light or white socks, light slacks and skirts. Consider using a theme when dressing as a couple or a group.

 

5.  Mothers and babies

Capture the feelings and emotions of mother and baby in those special moments that only the two of you share. High key apparel work very well here.

 

6.  Mature women

Wear long sleeves. Cover necks with high collars, turtlenecks, scarves etc. Dark colours are usually best.

 

7.  Furs and coats

Furs and coats make for exciting portraits and some thought should be given to this area when planning your portrait session.

 

8.  Special props

If you have a special theme such as golfing, art, music, dance, etc: that you would like to work into your portrait bring them with you. Feel free to call us to discuss any interest you have.

 

9.Mulitple outfits

Consider using more than one outfit to show different sides of your personality.

 

10.  Points to remember

* Dress according to the style and effect you want - formal or casual, sophisticated elegance or informal, indoors or outdoors. * Darker colours are generally best because they have a tendancy to recede, placing more emphasis on the facial skin tones. * Avoid busy patterns and strips: wear subtle patterns or solid colours. * Bright colours and whites must be handled carefully. Bright colours and whites tend to dominate the portrait unless used correctly. *Bright colours and whites can be used very effectively as accent colurs. Jewellery can also be used for accents. * Long sleeves are generally best. This makes it possible for better cropping and adds emphasis to the facial tones. * Sweaters, turtlenecks, and jackets can be used very effectively. * Hats and unusual apparel work out well for character studies and portraits with a unique look. * High Key Portraits (white backgrounds) All clothing and accessories should be white or very slight so emphasis will be on the skin tones. * Special clothing- If apparel has a special meaning, regardless of whether it fits the above guidelines, it should be considered.

 

11. Consultations

It is recommended that you meet with us prior to your photo session so we can learn more about your personality, where you work and play, your desires and or your fantasies. This will help us to decide the type of portrait session that will enable us to do the absolute best job for you and capture the images you desire.