Tips For a Successful Portrait

A typical portrait session:

First of all, most portraits sessions aren't typical -- especially with kids.

If young children are involved, you can expect to be finished with the portrait within twenty minutes, as that’s usually the maximum time they’ll give. With adults only, we can take some more time -- but it usually is not necessary.

After the images are captured, we will go over the necessary paperwork and make an appointment for you to come back to view them. Occasionally, there is time for you to see your portraits right away. Once your order has been placed, you can expect to see your finished portraits (typically) within two weeks. However, some products take a bit longer to produce.

With your permission, we can have your portraits available online for you to share with friends and family. This is a great way to show people who live elsewhere your portraits. The portraits may be ordered online, as well.

Preparing for your portrait

A portrait is a very personal image. Your clothing should reflect your style but should not be distracting. With that in mind, we have some suggestions to make your portrait memorable. Long sleeves look better than short sleeves. Pants or skirts rather than shorts. Solids instead of patterns. Dark colors have more of a slimming effect.

Shoes are usually shown in the images and often the soles show up, too. Check to see that they’re clean.

Make sure (women) your makeup is applied well and that your hair is as you want it. Bring a mirror, hairbrush, and a small makeup kit for touch-ups.

Men, if you’re planning to get your hair cut, do it a week or so before your appointment. Also, if your appointment is in the late afternoon or evening, you should shave an hour or so beforehand.

Children do better if they’re not tired, hungry, or cranky (you don’t need us to tell you this!). Have some snacks ready if a “bribe” is needed. If you need to take a break during the session, we can wait.

Before your appointment

If the portrait is to be made in your home, think about whether you want to use a studio backdrop (notify us and allow an additional 1/2 hour) or some spot in your home like the fireplace, stairs, entryway, back yard, patio, or deck. Tidy up the area so there aren’t distracting elements in the background.

If we are meeting you at another location (such as a park), please be specific about the exact spot so we can be sure to meet you on time. It's frustrating for both parties when people are rushed.

Most portraits are made in our studio, where we have more options available.

Most of all, have fun having your portrait made. We enjoy what we do and we want you to enjoy it, too.