Family Portrait Photography

Family Portrait Tips From A Pro:

• Keep The Background Simple
  Lots of people want family portraits taken at home and I’m happy to accommodate your wishes. So first, carefully check for an uncluttered setting. Oversized furniture, storage units, tree branches, fence posts, vehicles, etc. will detract from your portraits. If your property or house is ‘busy,’ let’s move the group to one of the area’s lovely parks.

• Do a Wardrobe Check
  Before the photo session, take a long look in a full-length mirror and make sure everyone’s clothing fits and flatters. This is the time to cut off loose threads and iron out the wrinkles.

• Should Your Outfits Match?
  Some families like to coordinate outfits, for example: everyone wears formal clothing, or everyone goes casual with jeans and a nice shirt. Whatever you decide, double check that patterns don’t clash. If you’re going for a holiday theme, break out the crazy sweaters, or adopt a favorite holiday color: all green, all red, all blue, etc.

• Do a Makeup Check
  Ladies, wear a little more mascara than usual and note that darker lipstick photographs better than pale. Also, use matte cosmetics rather than frosted. Frosted elements in cosmetics look like blemishes in a photo. You don’t want that!

• Jewelry – To Bedazzle Or Not To Bedazzle
  If you have a signature piece of jewelry, by all means, wear it. Otherwise, keep adornments simple. For gentlemen wearing ties, invest in a good-looking tie clip or tie tack. Not only are they practical, but they make an elegant statement.

• Hair Styles
  If you get your hair cut three or four days before your photo session, your hair will settle and won’t look shocked. If you color your hair, get a touch-up a few days in advance.

• Think Happy Thoughts!
  Your expression always reflects what you’re thinking, so put cares, woes, the news and business issues far away in a separate compartment, then focus on your blessings. This will make your smiles relaxed, natural and engaging.

• Who To Include In Your Family Portrait?
  Be ecumenical. Remember, families are like fudge: mostly sweet with a few nuts.