Here’s a phrase we hear almost daily: "I don't like having my photo taken!" Neither do we - that’s why we’re behind the lens! We understand, and that’s why we strive to make the experience as relaxed, comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Immediate viewing on a screen allows the opportunity to preview and select your images live. This ensures that you're happy with your own portrait.

Here are some suggestions for how to prepare for your portrait.

Clothing

• solid colours are preferable; darker colours are slimming and paler colours maximise width

• avoid wearing solid whites or pale colours unless underneath a jacket

• winter attire tends to be more timeless than summer clothing

• avoid stripes, distracting patterns and slogans or logos

• bring multiple options for shirts, blouses, ties

• bring a jacket to give you the option

• press or iron outfit

• assume you’ll be photographed in full length, especially with group photos, and wear suitable footwear

• avoid wearing runners unless it’s for a sporty look; brightly coloured or white footwear can be distracting

Hair and Makeup

We can supply a hair and makeup artist on request, for a reasonable fee. If you plan to do your own, keep the following in mind:

• bring a hair brush or comb and any hair products

• you may want to consider using a slightly darker brow pencil and eyeliner to emphasise eyes

• brighter lipsticks and blush tend to look more flattering in photographs rather than darker

• face powder eliminates shine

• avoid foundation that contains high amounts of reflective pigment or sparkle

Posing

Friendly directions about how to stand and head positioning are the photographer and stylist's responsibility. Your role is simply to attempt to relax! A variety of expressions may be asked for, smiling and not smiling, depending on what and where your portrait is intended for.

Retouching

Images are given basic enhancements. Specific retouching can be applied on request.

Click here for further information on Planning Portrait Sessions