At Astonishing Portraits, we believe great portraiture starts with a pre-session consultation meeting. During that session we discuss clothing for your photographic session. Clothing is really the best form of “prop” for a portrait. Clothing can define the moment or it can define the personality of the portraiture. Clothing also makes the difference between an upscale or just an average session.
All other items pertaining to the session should be coordinated with the clothing, so that other props complement the clothing. The use of coordinated clothing and props enriches the portrait experience from the client’s perspective, making the session more gratifying, fun and successful.
The wrong selection of clothes can ruin the photograph. That is why we feel it is so important to have a consultation before the session. Below are several topics that we cover during the consultation.
Dark and Light Colors
Darker colors help to blend the body with the background so that the faces are the most important part of the photograph. Generally, dark colors slenderize the subject and light colors seem to add weight to the body. This point is generally not a factor with children, but with some overweight or skinny children it could be.
The color of the clothing should always be toned down. Bright colors pull attention away from the face. Prints and patterns are distractions that draw attention away from the face also. Avoid fad-type clothing as this clothing soon dates the photograph, choose in favor of something less trendy and more conservative for a timeless portrait.
Solid colors in cool or neutral shades with long sleeves always look good. Cool colors such as blue and green recede and warm colors such as red, orange and yellow advance. Cool colors emphasize the faces and make them appear warmer and more pleasing in photographs.
Glasses
Glasses may or may not be worn. Nonreflective lenses are helpful, but restrict the lighting setup that the photographer uses. Removal of glare from glasses is time consuming and difficult cost you more for a finished photograph. If possible, it is best if you can borrow a matching set of frames without lenses from your doctor for the photographic session.
Shoes
Shoes are often a problem on small children as they sometimes dominate the portrait. If the clothing warrants it, children are best photographed without their shoes as children’s feet are quite cute.
Shoe styles and colors should also be coordinated to the rest of your attire: dark outfits call for dark shoes and socks.
Hats
Children often feel right at home in their favorite had or cap. Hats can also add an element of uniqueness to your portrait when coordinated with the rest of the wardrobe.
Group Clothing
For a clean look, the color schemes of groups and families should be no more than two or three colors. The most beautiful portraits are when the family is all dressed the same - not in matching outfits, but all dressed in denim, khakis, or white for example. The clothing should be kept simple so it will not distract from your faces.
Finally, group sessions should have garments that blend. All family members should wear either formal or informal outfits. Photographs where some members are wearing suits and ties and others wearing jeans and polo shirts are distracting and take away from the faces in the photograph.
We look forward to speaking with you and helping you create a beautiful portrait that you will cherish a lifetime. Please call the studio at 417.872.2284 to schedule you complimentary consultation appointment.
Photographically yours,
Larry Davidson
