A beautiful Mother & Daughter getting ready.
The date has been set, the contracts are signed, you’re all set for your portrait session, right?
To truly make the most out of your portrait session, there are a few things to take into consideration. One of the most important components, and sometimes the most overlooked, is the wardrobe. Put that Pinterest account to work and look for me, I’ll be there! Then of course is hair and makeup, or hair and skin care routine for the gentlemen. Next we will talk about little details such as shoes, jewelry, and possible accessories. When everything comes together just right, it results in breathtaking and cohesive story telling portraits sure to make you fall in love!
Life’s too short to wear boring clothes and what you wear is such a wonderful expression of who you are. You want your clothing to be an accent of yourself, not the main focus, so be sure to avoid loud patterns, neon or bright colors, ditch any ill-fitting duds, and be sure you’re able to sit, stand, and possibly kneel in the outfit you’re choosing to wear. Patterns such as polka dots, plaid, and SOME florals are acceptable. Just keep in mind that horizontal stripes are never flattering, and when in doubt snap a photo of you in the outfit and look at it. If your eye goes straight to your wardrobe, then it may be too distracting and take attention away from you and your family.
Classic makeup results in a timeless beauty.
“I believe all women are pretty without makeup - but with the right makeup can be pretty powerful” wise words by Bobbi Brown! The right makeup is empowering, boosts confidence, and helps you feel better while in front of the camera. That being said, there are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to beautifying yourself for your portraits. First of all, LESS is MORE when it comes to highlight! I always use at least one off camera light for every session, and this naturally creates highlights and shadows on and around the face. Some highlights, like the ones heavy in shimmer, reflect like headlights when flash is used and may require additional retouching to correct. You also want to make sure that your contouring is blended nicely, you have powder or blotting papers on hand for sweat or shine, and you can’t go wrong with a good makeup setting spray! Be sure to bring anything necessary for last minute touch ups such as lipstick/gloss, a compact with powder and mirror, hair brush/hair spray, bobby pins, etc. Be prepared to tame that mane in case it’s windy as all of my sessions take place in the great outdoors!
A quality beauty regiment leading up to your session will go a long way as well. You want to avoid trying anything new prior to your portraits, such as hair color, drastic hair cut, new teeth whitening treatment, and anything else that you haven’t done before and may not be happy with the outcome should it go wrong. Now please excuse me while I have a momentary flashback to my “Merlot purple” hair, that was meant to be red, just days before my wedding. Phew, okay, I’m better now! For the week or two before your session, drink plenty of water so your skin is nice and hydrated, as well as to help clear any imperfections. Invest in a quality face wash and moisturizer, and again if it’s something brand new be sure you try it out ahead of time!
Let your beauty shine from the inside out.
Shoes and accessories, yes please!
As Marilyn Monroe once said, “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the World” and I could not agree more! Whether it’s a pair of city skyline high stilettos, some Daisy Duke boots, or a pair of beachy Boho sandals, be sure your shoes are made for walkin’ and most likely in some less-than-concrete terrain. I often suggest to my clients they bring a pair of shoes for walking in that are comfortable and protect their feet from the elements such as sand. Then, once we get to the location we are shooting at, switch into those snazzy kicks! Always take your session location into consideration when choosing your shoes, and if you have any questions regarding the terrain don’t hesitate to ask.
Anyone else feel like they’re forgetting something? A few other items to bring with you to make your session run more smoothly include snacks for yourself and the little ones, treats for the furbaby, beauty touch up items like comb, brush, hairspray, and PLENTY OF WATER because this is Florida and it gets HOT. Speaking of Florida, if you’re session is taking place at the beach be sure to bring some baby powder. Simply sprinkle it over your feet and legs, anywhere that got sandy, and watch the sand fall right of!
If there’s something you have thought of to make your session more enjoyable, please comment below with your ideas and suggestions!