Close-Up/Yearbook Portraits
For your yearbook picture or other head-and-shoulders or
close-up poses, dress in something very simple both in color
and style. Men can choose a suit, sport coat or sweater. For
ladies, a plain dress, sweater or blouse with a simple neckline
is best. Both men and ladies should wear long sleeves to keep
the eye from being drawn to the flesh of the arms.
Clothing & Style make the Difference
To ensure a successful portrait it is best to bring several
clothing choices. It's always better to have alone too many
choices rather than too few. Coordinate from head-to-toe.
Shoes and socks may show in a full-length pose, as well as
belts, jewelry and other accessories.
Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait
with all other elements being secondary. Against a medium
or dark background, colors that photograph best are medium
to dark tones of green, brown, rust, wine, or blue. Darker
shades are more slimming.
Especially bright colors such as red, orange or pink will
ruin a portrait because their intensity overwhelms the face.
Stripes, plaids, checks and bold prints also draw the eye
away from the face and do not photograph well. Dark colors
are slimming and lighter colors widen.
Necklines are important. A scoop or v-neck shape is best
if your neck is short, or your face is full. A turtleneck
or high neck garment is more flattering if your neck is longer
or your face is narrow. Bare shoulders or tops with "spaghetti
straps" often make the subject look heavier and take
the eye away from the face.
Informal Poses & Special Styles
Informal portraits invite much more variety in clothing color
and style. Girls may choose a favorite sports outfit, dress,
prom dress, shorts, jeans outfit - the clothes you really
enjoy. Possible choices for boys include a suit, jeans outfit,
a casual or sports outfit, a school or other jacket. Bring
extra outfits and we'll help you choose.
If you like "white-on-white" portraits you should
bring a white or very pale pastel outfit.
Black is a good choice for "black-on-black" portraits
or for a dramatic look in color.
Express Yourself
If you have a hobby, then bring it along. Musical instruments,
art supplies, theatrical garb, cheerleading or athletic uniforms,
band uniforms, stuffed animals, skateboards, pets, girlfriend,
boyfriend, buddies. Think creatively!
Enjoy the Outdoor Session
Bring a casual outfit that will blend with natural outdoor
settings. Earth tones are an excellent choice. Also remember
that simple styles photograph best. If you have an outdoor
hobby or interest - backpacking, jogging, climbing, etc. -
bring your gear.
Planning Your Session
- Don't try a new haircut just for your session. Have your
hair cut about a week before your session, NOT the day before.
- Don't worry if you develop skin problems. Our professional
digital artist will retouch any blemishes or harsh lines.
- Problems with glasses can lead to extra retouching charges.
We can remove normal glare on glasses, but tinted lenses
cannot be lightened. If your glasses are tinted or very
thick, they can distort the way the camera photographs the
eye.
Ask your optometrist for a pair of empty frames to
wear for your portrait session.
- Braces can be removed for a nominal fee.
- Removing tan or sunburn lines will incur an additional
fee.
You can look tan in your portrait by wearing a white
or an off-white outfit.
- Makeup can affect the way your portrait looks. Both "fresh
& natural" or "evening" makeup photograph
well.
- A fresh shave is a must! If you have a beard or mustache,
make sure it is trimmed to your liking.
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