Suggestions
Often we are
asked, What should I wear, or can I wear anything I want?
Obviously you should dress in a manner that you feel comfortable with, but there
are a few considerations that you should keep in mind when planning for your
sitting.
Clothing Color
& Style Make the Difference!
Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait, with all other
elements being secondary.
Colors:
Years ago color wasn't much of an issue, but many of the colors today cannot be
"accurately" reproduced photographically. Even though that Hot-Pink shirt
and the Florescent socks look great in real life, it will most probably be
disappointing in print. There for we recommend keeping your wardrobe
simple. Wild patterns and colors often confuse the image and create
an image that is hard to look at.
Patterns:
(important)
Just like colors, some
patterns DO NOT reproduce well. Often we see a shirt with fine lines,
checks, or patterns causing what is called a moiré. This anomaly can be
caused by shiny materials as well. (A moiré appears as a transparent
rainbow colored swirl)
Express
Yourself and your world!
If you have a hobby, then bring it along! Musical instruments, art
supplies, theatrical garb, cheerleading or athletic uniforms, stuffed animals,
skateboards, snow ski's or boards, pets, girlfriends, boyfriends, and buddies.
Have a portrait to remember!
Planning your session
Hair
Don't try a new hairstyle just before your
session, and have your hair cut around a week before your session is scheduled.
Skin Problems
Don't worry if you develop a skin problem. Our finished portraits can be
fully retouched to eliminate blemishes and soften harsh lines. (Level
1-retouching which is "minor blemishes and glasses glare" is included in all
print prices 4x6" and larger)
Glasses
Problems with glasses can lead to extra retouching charges. We can remove
normal glare on glasses, but tinted lenses cannot be lightened--even with
artwork. If your glasses are tinted or exceptionally thick, they can
distort the way the camera photographs the eye. In this case, you should
ask your optometrist for a pair of empty frames to wear for your portrait
session. If you have any question regarding your glasses or extra
retouching charges on glasses, please contact us.
Braces
Braces can be removed with artwork at an extra charge.
Tanning
Removing tan or sunburn lines will incur additional retouching charges.
For Girls...
Makeup can affect the way your portrait looks. Both fresh, natural makeup
or "evening" makeup photograph well.
For Guys...
A fresh shave is a must! If you have a beard or mustache, make sure
it is trimmed to your liking.
What time of
day?
Time of day is not an issue for indoor portraits unless you have small children
that have a nap schedule.
Outdoor
photography has additional variables to consider...
The quality of the light and weather conditions are the two biggest
concerns.
The natural light outdoors is usually best in the mornings and evenings.
Mid-day is often bad due to the direct over head light of the sun which is very
harsh.
Weather?
If you have booked an outdoor event or a location sitting outside, you should
also have a "Plan-B" in case the weather does not cooperate. If your out door
sitting is planned to be here at Natural Images, you always have the option of shooting
in the studio instead.