Outdoor Sessions

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.  Patterns are not recommended as you will blend into the background.

 

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.

 

Relationship Images

 

For our ever popular and often imitated relationship images, which we were the first to bring to Richmond, 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!

 

Window Light

In our window light series, dark or light will work, even a black and white pattern can be a unique look, especially on a stylish woman.

 

Make-up

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.  If you have heavy beard growth, 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.  Yes, clients have arrived with Spider-Man tattoos.

 

Hair Styles

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.

 

 Jewelry

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!