Your portrait is an expression of you. It shouldn't be just a picture of what you look like, but a memory of who you are. Use these tips, and communicate with us, to have the best portrait session possible.
COLOR
Did you know...
... that the color you wear affects how your skin looks
... that colors have symbolic meanings that can affect the way you are viewed
... that colors can make or break your portrait
... that some colors photograph better than others
... that what you wear and the background colors and how they interact can create a visual circus rather than a pleasing portrait
TIPS
- Decide where you want your portraits. The lighting, time of day, colors, textures, obstacles, obstructions, props all affect the outcome of the portrait. Be sure to communicate with us so we can both be prepared. We can also use our expertise to help you choose wardrobe colors, styles, etc.
- Look through your closet. What is the most predominant color you see there? Discuss this with us as it tells a lot about your personality, likes and dislikes, and what will represent you the best. (HINT: Sometimes it isn't the color you would think)
- Make note of hair and skin tones. Discuss these with us so we may be prepared with extra reflectors, lights, or alternative posing ideas.
- When choosing your wardrobe, avoid small checks, thin stripes, tiny plaids as they tend to distort in the camera lens.
- White tops can make a person appear washed out, or can reflect light onto darker skin tone to brighten their appearance
- Black tops can get lost against dark backgrounds, and can snuff out darker complexions.
- Bright colors can reflect against the skin causing the under chin to appear that color
- Busy patterns or big prints can be used if they are indicative of the personality of the wearer, but tend to make the image appear cluttered and take the focus away from the faces
- Be yourself. A portrait should not be a picture of who you aren't. Be comfortable, relaxed, open to laughing out loud. People who think they take horrible pictures are usually those who have been trained to freeze, stiff and smile hard, rather than to relax and naturally laugh or be themselves.
