The simple guidelines to follow would include the following:
- Avoid patterns and logos that distract from the person in the photo. Patterns that are too busy compete with the face for attention. Avoid characters of any kind, words, etc.
- Layer several outfits for color and texture. During the fall and winter cable knits and wool photograph really well. During Spring and Summer opt for flowy summer dresses, colorful polo shirts, and button downs.
- Outfits should be coordinated to look cohesive, but you do not have to match. A good idea is to pick a shirt or blouse with a simple pattern on it for one person and pull colors from it for the rest of the family.
- Please do NOT wear solid white or black. Colors tend to photograph much nicer. I thrive on rich vibrant colors and prefer my subjects to choose deep purples, reds, greens and even oranges. Layering with solids, textures and adding subtle patterns in scarves, jewelry and wraps add depth and interest as well.
- Mix and match. Come up with unusual combinations that compliment and contrast. You'd be amazed at how beautifully they photograph. Try other fabrics other than cotton or polyester. Tweeds, silks, taffetta, wool knits, linen etc.
- Accessorize. Beautiful jewelery and coordinated bags, scarfs, hats (fully recommended) favorite toys, blankets, etc. and those little details create a memorable, uniquely you portrait.
- A smile. This is the most important thing to wear. Being relaxed, laid back, having fun (or even pretending to, if things aren't going as you hoped) will show more in the portraits than the finest of clothing. Laugh, joke, jump around, be silly and have FUN. Those things are what I want to capture and the rest will follow naturally.
If you have any questions or need help with ideas, feel free to call me at (360) 261-3106.
