What is a photo session like?

FFor an in-studio session, we like to keep it fun. We usually have music playing in tune with the mood and type of the shoot.

We typically shoot tethered, which means when we take a photo it shows up on a monitor screen. You can see how the photos appear on a monitor. We also have a large full standing mirror behind me and the camera. This lets you see your poses and position, which helps both of us communicate and improves overall comfort.

We've found most people not accustomed to the camera are a little shy and nervous at first. However, after about 15 minutes, we quickly get into the groove and things start flowing naturally. We provide instruction when necessary and at other times let things flow freely. It all depends on the situation. But overall, everyone's always had a great time and really enjoyed themselves.

Video from a previous Photo Session

Wardrobe Considerations

Keep it simple
Unless we've arranged ahead of time for a certain look or set of outfits, solid colors are best. Avoid large, bold patterns and bright colors that draw attention away from your face.

Cover up arms
Long sleeves draw attention away from your arms and helps bring the focus to your face.

Don't forget the bottom half
Our portrait photographer may suggest a full-length pose. Make sure you coordinate clothing from head to toe.

Accentuate the positive
Darker clothing are slimming. Light tones tend to emphasize body size in photos.

Frame your face
Scoop or v-neck tops flatter shorter necks and full faces. Turtlenecks or high-necked garments in portraits flatter longer necks and slender faces.

Keep clothing and colors consistent
Dress everyone in the same style for your portrait session. Do not mix casual and formal clothing.

Wear a top that is a solid color. Prints and patterns do not photograph nearly as well, and may take away from the focal point of the headshot--your face. You can stick to either a basic white or black if your headshot will be in black and white, rather than color, but make sure whatever you wear doesn't blend into the background too much. If your headshot will be in color, you should choose a color that compliments your skin tone and wear a top with a very simple style.

Do not mix light and dark colors in portraits
Save stronger colors and patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.

Photography Make-Up Tips

There are many ways to apply make-up for photography. These tips are just the basics. With a little practice and experimentation, you should be able to create the correct look for the perfect photograph.

1. Use cover cream underneath the eyes to hide dark circles and cover any puffiness. A green tinted cover stick works well for this.

2. Apply a foundation close to the skin tone over the entire face, directly over cover cream. This will even out the skin tone and also cover any blemishes or marks. Using a small sponge, blend into the hair line and down to the neck area.

3. To apply blush, measure the starting point as a two-finger distance from the side of your nose, and brush across cheek bones all the way back to the ears blending into the hairline.

4. Use a slightly darker shade of contour powder to define the cheekbones more prominently.

5. Also brush some contour powder in a “V” shape under the chin to strengthen the jaw line and across the forehead to unify the facial tone.

6. Eyes are usually the most difficult part, and the way they are done depends on the individual. Start by lining the eyes with a dark pencil, both on the lower and upper lids. Apply shadow to the lids, normally using a lighter shade under the brow line. Extend the shadow out past the corner of the eye using an up-sweeping motion. Powdered shadow works best when blending several colors together.

7. Brush mascara on upper and lower lashes, using a comb to separate them if they clump together.

8. Outline lips with a lip pencil or brush. Thin lips can be shaped to look larger and thick lips made thinner. Fill in with appropriate lipstick color.

9. Dust entire face with a translucent powder to absorb moisture and eliminate shine.