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Portrait Tips
Get the most out of your portrait, use our
appointment tips to help you be prepared,
look your best and have fun too.
Who's it for?
Decide what type of sitting and package you'd like:
Child/Baby Portraits
Family Portraits
Senior Portraits
Large Group Portraits
Holiday Portraits ( Available November 1-December 15 and Advertised Special Occasions)
Keep in mind when choosing a package to have an idea of haw many people you would like to share your portraits with ( ex. Grandparents, Aunt, Uncle) and what basic sizes work best for you and them.
Select a time that works best for you or your family.
Are your children typically more relaxed in the morning or afternoon?
Generally, children photograph best when they are well rested and fed.
When scheduling senior portraits remember that all of our packages include a 2-3 hour sitting and may also sometimes require additional change over time for extra backgrounds, so please be sure you keep your time free as to not feel rushed.
What would you like?
Decide the type of "look" you want, e.g., formal, casual, etc.
If you would like your portraits done in studio or on location. We do include a 20 mile radius from our studio at no extra charge, so please feel free to ask us if you have a special place in mind of would prefer in home appointments.
For additional suggestions contact our office to discuss a portrait plan that's specific to your child's or family's interests.
Children's Portraits...
Let their personalities shine through! While here at Snow Valley Imaging we have many props and extras for little one it also helps to personalize their portraits by bringing a special prop, uniform, costume or favorite toy.
Bring a comb, brush and damp washcloth to tame fly-away strands of hair.
For toddlers, bring a dry snack, something that will not soil their clothes.
Infants should be well rested and fed prior to your appointment.
Young toddlers are the trickiest to prepare. They quickly pick up on stress and may become nervous, so keep it fun and don't rehearse the sitting. Arrive early and let the photographer get to know your child.
Family Portraits...
When selecting clothing, keep in mind your the "look" you would like to portray. For a dramatic look dress everyone in white and use the white background. For a casual look try denim shirts for all.
Provide continuity by selecting a color in each persons outfit that is the same.
Senior Portraits...
Keep your session fun and about you. Don't be afraid to be yourself and let it show.
For the best look and feel of your portraits please tell us a little about yourself before your appointment so we can make your experience more relaxing and fun.
Remember to choose outfits that you feel comfortable in. The better you feel the better your portraits will look. Avoid large prints or patterns that distract from your face.
Don't worry if you have skin problems, a sudden break out and even braces; we offer full glamour retouching standard with all of our senior packages.
If you participate in sports or clubs at school feel free to bring uniforms, sports props, and trinkets. Ask us about custom digital layouts to show off your school spirit and individuality.
Avoid cutting your hair right before your session. Give any new styles about two weeks. For gentlemen who shave, please do not shave with in 2-3 hours of your appointment to help decrease redness in your portraits.
If you wear make-up keep it simple and clean looking. Avoid using frosted eye shadow or glitter and frosted lipstick, the camera lights cause white reflections.
Remember to bring accessories to complete your look. Hats, scarves help to create a fun look.
Spaghetti straps and sleeveless tops will draw attention to your arms and shoulders. Your under garments are important too. Make sure that it is the right color under your clothing and it fits properly.
Dress from head to toe, hands and feet may show in your portraits. Hands will likely show in your portraits. French manicures look great. Shoes should compliment your outfit. For some casual poses you may want to remove your shoes and go barefoot.
Outfits that reveal too much, simply reveal too much. Jeans that don't fit will not flatter you, avoid jeans that are too tight. Short skirts are hard to pose in and bring attention away from your face.
If you are interested in sepia/antique tones please wear lighter colors. If you are interested in selective coloring please choose bright colors.
Wardrobe Ideas and Color Coordination
Simplicity is the key when it comes to planning a portrait. Solid colors are best.
Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors. They draw attention away from the face.
Long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommended. They draw attention away from the arms and focus on the face. (Short sleeves are acceptable for infants and small children.
Coordinate your child's attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and socks or stockings, as our photographer may suggest a full length pose.
Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size. Necklines are important.
A scoop or v-neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.
Dress everyone in the same style clothing. Do not mix casual and formal attire.
Do not mix light and dark colors. Save stronger colors and patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.
White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light colored background. Dark clothing looks best photographed against darker backgrounds and creates a more formal mood.
Our photographers will help you to select the backgrounds most suitable to your needs. To personalize your portraits, we encourage you to bring your own props or a favorite toy to the session as well.
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