Senior Portraits "helpful hints" 

What do I wear? 

When choosing your outfits, keep in mind the most important thing is that you like them. You'll want to bring as much variety as possible. Most seniors choose some casual and some dressy outfits. Avoid sleeveless or very short sleeves, because upper arms can be very distracting, especially women. 

Guys- for the more traditional portraits, a suit or sport coat with a tie is good. Medium to dark sweater photograph well. For casual and outdoor photos, comfort is the rule - jeans, shirts, sweaters, shorts, sweatshirts, western wear. 

Girls - bring the colors and outfits you feel best in- Dresses, (even formals), sweaters and lace for a more traditional look. Bright colors, patterns, skirts, jeans, shorts, if you like an outfit, it's probably because you look good in it, so make sure you bring it! All White is great for special high key effect. White is a strong color and is great when used properly with a white background. Blonde or light hair looks great with white clothing. 

Shoes - Often shoes will show so they should compliment your clothing; changes may be necessary with different clothing styles. Many  prefer barefoot poses. 

What Else Can I Bring?  

Here's where the fun really begins! We work very hard to bring out the various facets of your personality. So make sure you bring your favorite hat, musical instrument, pet, sunglasses, hobby, letter jacket, wheels, uniform, sports activity, or anything else you feel would show off the real you. Don't forges summertime activities, too: swim suit, boom box, fishing or skiing gear. Also, if you have a telephone in your room, bring it. No idea is too crazy, and since we'll only try a few poses with it, you have nothing to lose- so go for it! 

Bring your favorite music, we have a CD player in the studio.  

  Can I Bring Someone With Me? 

Absolutely! Some people find it more comfortable to bring Mom or Dad, a friend, brother or sister along to help case the "camera room jitters'". We want you to bring someone with you. 

Do You Have a Drape?  

Yes we have a drape for a formal yearbook photo. These add a nice elegant look when used with soft focus. 

What about a Suntan? 

What about My Hair, Make –up Glasses? 

Hair - try to have your haircut and/or perm at least one week before your session, to give it a chance to "fill in" a little. 'Don't try a radically different haircut or style - chances are you won't feel it expresses the "real you". Don't cut it until you have seen your previews too. 

  Make-up - (Guys, too!) Here's a quick hint that will gently enhance your portraits: Just before your session, stand two feet in front of your mirror. Dab a small amount of cover-up make-up on any noticeable blemishes. That's it - if they're gone ill the mirror they’ll be gone in your photographs!  

Girls - Lipstick is always recommended, but eyeliner application should be minimal because it makes the eyes look smaller. Finally use a translucent matte powder or matte foundation which reduces shininess,  

Glasses - if you wear glasses most of the time, you'll want to wear them in your portraits. To eliminate glare or reflections call your optician, and arrange to borrow a pair of empty frames like yours, or have the lenses removed from your own glasses, Most opticians will gladly do this for free (make sure you give them plenty of notice, though.) This totally eliminates glare and distortions and is the most important wav to improve your portraits if you wear glasses. It doesn't take much effort - and it sure makes your pictures look better! Also I will be using a polarizing filter to fight the glare.  This lens filter works well and will eliminate most glares.