When choosing the clothing for your portrait session, my goal is to draw attention to the wonderful expressions in the image, not the clothing. That is why I often suggest timeless clothing, which is relatively undecorated and usually solid or close to it.

I want to ensure that you love your photographs just as much in 50 years as you do the day you take them home.

So, what to choose?

Everyone does not need to match! Outfits that are varied but are in color harmony look the most natural.

For outdoor sessions, white and khaki are always a perfect choice. You choose the level of formality; a sleeveless cotton dress for a girl, and a white polo and khaki shorts look nice for a boy. For women, capris, shorts, or skirts with a white blouse of your favorite style will flatter. For men, polos, soft, non-starchy button downs or t-shirts and khaki shorts or pants work well.

If you prefer a more contemporary look, black or dark tops are a great choice. One thing to remember is that the eye goes to the greatest area of contrast. If that is where your dark shirt meets your khaki pants and you have a tummy…well, you get the idea.

For color outdoor images, blues are a first choice. Other colors are fine, just make sure the members of the family harmonize, and that no one sticks out.

For our urban images, wear your fashion forward looks. Bright colors and textures are great. Layers, hats, scarves and boots add style and dimension.

In cool weather, layers of textured sweaters, turtlenecks, corduroy and denim are delightful. Solid color scarves and adorable hats can add magic. A beautiful wool winter coat and hat set is an occasion for a photograph in itself.

Shoes – I prefer children to go barefoot, unless the weather is chilly, in which case cute boots are fun. Athletic shoes are not a good idea, as the eye is drawn to white.

Finally, consider how the clothing will harmonize with the décor of the room in which the portraits will hang. An elegant decorating statement can be made by custom harmonizing the colors in your art to the colors of the room.

For our ever popular and often imitated Relationship Portraits, black, or dark blue, and gray on tops and bottoms is the elegant rule. On a happy note, black recedes, slimming everyone, and allows tiny, unclothed babies to become the stars of the image.

Just select the style and fabric of your choice. It all will work equally well. Long sleeves are preferred on adults to keep attention off of their arms. Girls look sweet in leotards, and tights or leggings. The neckline is classically elegant and flattering. Boys can wear short sleeved navy polos, and dark jeans or sweat pants since legs do not show up very much. No need for a lot of worry or investment!

In our window light series, darks or lights will work best. Even a black and white pattern can be a unique look, especially on a stylish woman.

For children, none is needed. We will retouch any bruises, bites and scratches.

For Moms – A matte complexion, and lips of enough color to set them off from your skin are recommended. Lots of mascara is great, and if you like eye shadow, a brown or plum to add depth is helpful. Use blush in the hollows of your cheeks for b&w images to increase the contouring and on the apples of your cheeks for color images.

For Dads - Please shave before the session. You don’t want to look like Fred Flintstone!

Finger nails should be clean, trimmed, and for children, polish free. For women a French manicure or something in a solid, light to medium color is nice. Men just trim nails and moisturize.

Other Considerations
Fake tattoos, stamps and marker marks should be removed prior to your session.

I recommend having trims two weeks before your session to allow time to look like your normal self. Select a hairstyle that is your normal look. Now is not the time to experiment with up-do’s and new looks.

Wear some of your sentimental favorites. Choose timeless pieces, not trendy. You don’t want to regret chandelier earrings in 20 years! Wedding rings are important, so don’t forget them. Watches should be removed for the photography session, as they can be a visual distraction.

Remember, our goal is to create a portrait that is enjoyable to look at, and a stunning piece of art, not only today, but for all of the generations to come!

3-5 Cloth diapers to dry drool or dry baby after wiping with baby wipes
Baby Wipes
Bottle and non-face-staining snacks if needed
Hairbrush