Wardrobe Tips

Studio Portraiture

• 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. We suggest brown, gray, charcoal, blue, green or burgundy.
• Long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommended. They draw attention away from the arms and focus on the face.
• Coordinate your attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and socks or stockings.
• Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size. Stay away from solid whites, if possible.
• Necklines are important. A V-neck top 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.
• If you wear glasses most of the time, you’ll want to wear them in your portraits. To eliminate glare or reflections, bring empty frames or remove the lenses from your glasses. If you choose not to remove the lens, we can retouch glass glare for an additional fee.

Senior Portraits

• Guys – For more traditional studio portraits, a suite or sport coat with a tie is good. Medium to dark sweaters photograph well. For casual and outdoor photos, comfort is the rule. A nice pair of jeans or khakis look great.
• Girls – Wear the colors and outfits you feel best in. Dresses and sweaters are good for a more traditional look. Bright colors, skirts, jeans or shorts look good for casual portraits. Avoid sleeveless or very short sleeves if possible.
• Yearbook Clothing – Check with your school for specific yearbook clothing requirements and/or restrictions. Logos and product brands may be prohibited.
• Shoes – Shoes should compliment your clothing. Bring a variety of shoes that match your outfit. We will not photograph you in flip-flops. We may suggest bare feet for some poses, so don’t forget to get a pedicure.
• Hair – Hair styling should be appropriate to the clothing selected. Avoid new hairstyles or having your hair cut or permed the week before your portrait session.
• Make Up – Makeup for photographs should be slightly heavier than normal. However, too much makeup tends to give that painted look, and too little might not show off your features. A translucent powder is recommended.
• Nails – Don’t forget the importance of your hands. Whether you choose to do your nails yourself or have them manicured, keep them clean and use coordinating colors. A french manicure is suggested for multiple outfits.
• Facial Hair – Make sure that you are clean-shaving before your session. Retouching can hide blemishes but cannot fix razor stubble.