How To Prepare
Clothes
- Wear clothes that make you comfortable and reflect your personality.
- Bring multiple outfits. Select a variety of outfits as you desire.
- Coordinate your outfit from head to toe.
- Keep the tonal range of clothing in the same group; don't mix lights & darks in the same outfit.
- Select 2-3 complementing solid colors in tones such as greens, blues, purples, burgundies, khakis, black, navy and denim.
- Avoid large prints, stripes, busy patterns and bright colors - these can create distractions in your portrait.
- A black shirt or top is always a good choice.
- Bring appropriate shoes, socks and a belt for each outfit.
- Each person in a family or group portrait should be dressed in a similar color or tonal range.
- For family or group portraits, coordinating outfits is a good practice. Jeans or khakis and a white or black shirt is always a good choice.
- Be sure the clothes you select fit properly, especially shirt collars.
- Short sleeves are OK, but long sleeves are best. Be sure to bring at least 1-2 long sleeve tops.
- Dark clothes will help to make you look thin.
- Traditional clothing styles will better stand the test of time.
- Medium to dark clothes look the best on dark backgrounds.
- Medium to light colors look the best on lighter colored backgrounds.
- Earth tones are best for outdoor portraits.
- Bring all clothes on hangers. Be sure clothes are not wrinkled.
- If you plan to wear a tie, bring an appropriate blazer or business suit. A shirt and tie with no blazer/suit jacket does not photograph well.
- Bring multiple accessories for each outfit
Hair
- Wear your hair in your normal style.
- Do not change your hairstyle in the days before your portrait session.
- If you want to get a haircut, schedule it one week before your portrait session.
- A fresh shave is important for men. Neatly trim beard or mustache.
- Bring your hair care/styling products and a mirror.
Skin
- Minor blemishes and scars will be removed by retouching.
- Avoid sunburn and tan lines.
- Women keep make-up simple and natural.
- Avoid makeup with sparkles and SPF. You are allowed to bring your makeup to the session.
- Your nails will show in some portraits. Be sure fingernails and toenails are polished and not chipped.
Jewelry
- Keep jewelry simple and to a minimum.
- Bring appropriate jewelry for each outfit.
Props
Props are recommended.
Bring props that are a part of your life and personality and/or profession.
For example:
Bring props that are a part of your life and personality and/or profession.
For example:
- Musical Instrument
- Letter Jacket
- Sports Uniform/Jersey
- Hats
- Sports Equipment (lacrosse stick, bat, football, etc.)
- Sunglasses
- Hobby Items
- Cars/Motorcycles
- Pets (Pets are welcome, but please call in advance. Bring a leash and toys/treats to keep their attention.)
© Erin Shuba Photography 2017