General Notes…

Please arrive on time to your appointment. Showing up late means you lose camera time. I often have sessions booked back-to-back and I don’t want you to miss a minute. Sleep! Make sure you get at least 2 nights of good sleep before your photo session so that you will look fresh.

Clothing Tips

Keep it simple and make sure you feel good in the clothes you select. Have your clothes and accessories ready the night before your shoot. Choose clothes that reflect your style and are appropriate for the event. Make sure they are clean and free of wrinkles. Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later. Bring more or less clothing options depending on which session type you selected. It’s okay to bring extra that you may not wear. If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller. Avoid stripes and plaid. Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns. Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy casual, and some casual. If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them!

Shoes

Heels and boots are always flattering and glamorous. Flats or bare feet can also work if you mix them with the right outfit.

Hair

Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups. A little curl cream or pomade can go a long way to help prevent frizz and fly-aways. Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded drama to your life.

Makeup

Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look. Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Please don’t be concerned about minor (or major) breakouts. We can touch all that up. Don’t sweat it! Make sure that your face make-up is blended into your neck so that when you look in the mirror your neck is not too white. Also check to see if you have tan lines that will show with the different outfits you are going to wear. Bring chapstick or lip gloss to keep your lips moist.

Jewelry

Keep it simple. The proper jewelry can really complement your outfit. Select items that don’t distract from your face. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you.

Props

• Feel free to bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:
• Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
• Sports uniforms
• Musical instruments
• Other items (favorite book, dance outfit, art supplies, etc.)

Glasses

Most lenses have a glare. The safest option is to check with your eye doctor and ask if they’ll loan you a similar pair without lenses. (I stock a few pairs, but the frames may not be to your liking.)

Bringing Friends & Parents

Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a helpful. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a boyfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge.

Weather

Sun and/or clouds are great (clouds even out the light and can make for ideal shooting conditions). If it’s actually raining or hurricane winds are blowing, will have to reschedule.

Undergarments

Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. Try on your clothing with the undergarments and make sure all is good.

Relax and Have Fun!

I strive to make the portrait sessions fun. If you are enjoying the session, it will show through and the result will be better images.