Welcome!
I'm looking forward to working with you during our portrait event!
See my suggestions below for showing up at your best.
About Portrait Events
At a portrait event, sessions are short. It is imperative that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. There may not be a way to accommodate you if you are late.
That said, a short session doesn't mean we have to be rushed, or stressed. Relaxation is the key to looking your best in photos, so please plan to spend a few minutes before your session sitting calmly, stretching lightly, or doing a little deep breathing.
Many people are uncomfortable being photographed, or worry that they won't know what to do in front of the camera. Please plan to rely on me to guide you. We share the goal of getting some really terrific photos of you. I like even a short session to feel easy and friendly.
Notes on Clothing
Wear something that makes you feel like a million bucks. The style is completely up to you. I'm delighted to photograph you in a ball gown, or in a t-shirt and jeans, as long as you really feel great in it. There may be other considerations, such as dressing to look professional if you're updating your headshot, but I advise you not to allow those considerations to win out over your comfort. Put another way, if the blazer or classic work shirt you think you're "supposed" to wear makes you feel constricted, or fussy, or dull, find another way to check the "professional" box that still allows you to feel like your best self.
Other thoughts:
- Textured clothing photographs beautifully. If you have a favorite piece in corduroy, denim, or a chunky knit, consider wearing it.
- Wrinkled clothing doesn't photograph beautifully, so please give some attention to that before you come.
- All colors (including black and white) are good as long as you like how they look on you.
- Please avoid graphic tees and clothing with text or prominent labels.
- Shoes are unlikely to be visible in your images. Pants may appear in some, but not at full length.
- No matter your size or shape, fitted garments will be more flattering than larger, loose-fitting ones.
Finally, keep in mind that we are making a portrait of you, not a portrait of your clothes. Let them be your favorite supporting players.
Notes on Makeup
If you wear makeup regularly or occasionally, you'll be happiest wearing it for your session. It evens out skin tone, reduces shine, and defines features. There's no need to apply it more heavily than you normally would for a job interview or a date, but do apply it with care. If you aren't confident applying makeup, don't do more than you're used to. Now is not the time to try out a totally new look. And if you're interested in meeting with a professional makeup artist before coming to the session, drop me a line here, and I'll be happy to provide some suggestions.
How to Prepare Children for their Session
Most parents worry that their children won't behave well for a photo session. And maybe they won't! But we'll figure it out. Some things that usually don't work are sternness and scolding. I suggest telling your child ahead of time that a friend (me!) is going to take photos of them, and that it's probably going to be fun. If a discussion about what to wear seems like it's going to cause a meltdown, or even sullenness, consider letting your child (or your teen) wear whatever they want! Things don't have to be formal and perfect to become a cherished memento of your child at their current age.
On a similar note, please don't direct your child to say "cheese," or insist that they smile for the camera. This leads to artificial expressions, and photographs you'll never truly love. If I can elicit a genuine smile, wonderful. If not, I would rather photograph an authentically sad, glum, or angry expression. Photos like this can often become favorites over the years.
If both the child and the parent are comfortable with it, I recommend allowing the child to come into the shooting space unaccompanied. Young children tend to be distracted by their parents, and teens tend to loosen up more when their parents aren't observing.
For little ones, please keep any food, toys, or other distractions outside of the shooting area. If you'd like to bring a snack, messy ones (like chocolate) are best avoided.
Turnaround Time
You will receive your proof gallery by Thursday, December 11th, at the latest, to allow for ordering beautiful gifts in time for the holidays.
If you'd like to know more about me, visit my About Page.
Click this link to revisit the details of the Art Works Now Portrait Event.
And if your questions weren't answered above, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me! You can use this Contact Form.
I'm excited to take your photograph!
Teresa