Preparing for your family portrait

Deciding to have a family portrait is a big decision that a family makes. Families want to capture their family before children grow up and have a photo to enjoy for years.

The following is advice to consider before the portrait session.

Decide what clothing color to wear

A portrait can be used as a wall décor when it compliments and blends with its surroundings. Consider where the portrait will hang. Look at the accent colors in the room and consider wearing clothing in that color. The harmony between the colors of the portrait and the room will look pleasing and enhance the décor.

Whether the location to hang the picture is known or not, for family portraits it is very important to coordinate clothing. Tonal harmony is the most important goal. In a portrait, no one person should stand out visually. Clothing can make or break a portrait. When creating a portrait the objective is to draw attention to people’s faces and their expressions. To do this effectively it is helpful to consider the following:

1. Coordinate outfits

Coordinate color, tone and or style. Pick clothes appropriate to the portrait’s setting. An outdoor portrait with a backdrop of fall leaves lends itself to casual clothing like khakis, jeans and sweaters. A studio portrait with a plain colored background lens itself more to formal or semi-formal attire.

2.Simple, comfortable and coordinated clothing look best in photos. Avoid short skirts or shorts. It makes posing more difficult. Turtle necks or v-necks are flattering although it’s best to avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments. Long sleeves, slacks or long skirts are better than sleeveless shirts, short skirts or shorts

3. Avoid solids and subtle patterns. A mix of colors and patterns can be distracting.

When choosing a color combination limit the number of colors to a range within three colors.

Whites, pastels and earth tones in solid colors look best where prints and patterns will distract attention from faces. Colors that are brighter than skin tones sometimes compete with the faces for attention.

4. Feet may show in the portrait, so be sure to wear socks and shoes that compliment the outfit worn

Shoe styles and color should blend with rest of person’s attire. Dark outfits should have dark socks and shoes.

In addition to clothing some other considerations for a great portrait session:

1. Jewelry should be kept simple, wide gold and silver necklaces may cause a glare.

2.Glasses- A problem may be caused with light reflections and distortion. Recommend either removing glasses or if glasses are desired during the portrait, recommend removing lens to eliminate distraction or consider contacting an optician for a lens-less frame.

3.Make up

Keep make-up natural to enhance the portrait.

Other things to remember:

Timing and children

Schedule the photography session at a time that works for children if possible.

If you have young children and they are happiest in the morning, schedule then. Children who are fed and rested before the session photograph the best.

Sense of Humor

Above all else, relax and have fun during the photo shoot. The photos will show a happy family having a fun time which equal images that will be treasured for years!