Preparing for a Portrait Session:
WHAT TO WEAR
I have heard some people say, "Don't wear white"
This is not necessarily true. It all depends on your complexion, the lighting used, background and where is the white. If you are a bride or having photos done for a Christening, you can't help but wear white.
~
Wear something appropriate.
If summer, summer clothes
For holidays mailers, dress for
the season
~ Be comfortable.
Try on your clothes before .
your photo shoot.
Make sure the clothes fit
Match the correct colors for
you
Neck Line - vee or scoop neck is
good for full face or short neck
~ Keep it simple
Solid colors are best.
Unless you have great arms wear sleeves
Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors.
Coordinate your attire for full lenghth poses
They draw attention away from the face.
Darker colors usually minimize body size
~ For group photos dress everyone in the same style
Don't mix casual and formal
Keep tones similar
Prints arefor ties & scarves, not shirts
or blouses
Don't mix seasons
POSING IDEAS
Your photographer should be able to direct you on your poses, but
here are some "heads up":
~ Relax
If you are tense, uncomfortable nervous, this will reflect
and show in your pictures. Take a deep breath, blow
out slowly. Literally shake it off.
Shake your shoulders. Laugh, giggle, think of a joke.
(hopefully your photographer will work with you on this)
~ Shoulders back
Posture is very important. It projects your attitude,
and improves your appearance including making you look
slimmer, self confident and sexier
~ Straight on facing the camera like a DMV photo is not
normally recommended.
Turn one should slightly away from the camera and then
turn your face toward the camera. This gives a slimming
and very flattering effect.
Occationally, straigh on head shots can work for a special
effect.
~ Especially for women. Tilt your head slightly This gives a more
relaxed and impromptude appearance and very flattering
for the ladies.
~ Chin down.
Unless the photographer is higher than you. Many people
feel they need to lift their chin to the air. This gives a
strained and haughty look to the subject. Chin down eyes
up makes your eyes look larger. Listen to your
photographer and remember, to minimumize your
movements. When they tell you to look up, move just a
little, they will tell you if you need to move more.
If the photographer is above you, lifting your chin is great and
helps deminish double chins.
~ Turn your back to the camera and look over your shoulder.
Don't strain. Only as much as you can do comfortably