It takes some serious thought and preparation to get the most out of your photo shoot, but don't worry, we've got your back! Here are some helpful tips to get you started. And as always, you can call the studio (or email) if you have any other questions or concerns!

Watch the Clock

• You should plan on arriving 10-15 minutes early for your photo session.

• Being dressed in your first outfit means you're ready (and so are we), which of
  course means we can get the most out of our time together.

Choosing the right Clothing

• Even though you may like your shirt with "Old Navy" on the front, the words can be a bit distracting in a photo. We want the focus to be primarily on YOU. Avoid any garments with name brands on them.

• When preparing your clothes, try to bring a variety of clothing choices (color, dress, casual) so that you have multiple options to choose from.

• The night before, try on your clothes and see how they fit. Do you like what you see? Make sure everything is ironed and ready to be photographed. Wrinkles will show. When transporting, use hangers instead of a backpack so that you do not create any creases.

Fab Hair

• You might want to schedule cutting your hair for at least a week prior to your appointment, so that you can look your best. Also avoid drastic color changes, this takes the shine out of your hair. 

• Use hairspray to settle any frizzy hairs.

• We want you to look your best, but we also want you to look like YOU! We encourage styling your hair - but don't change so much that you don't recognize yourself. We want you to love your portrait forever.

Complicated Complexion

• We retouch blemishes, so don't worry about breakouts.

• Avoid make up with an SPF in it. This tends to create a shine on your skin and will not be as flattering as other make ups.

• Look natural - again, we don't want you to change so much that you don't look like yourself.

Jewelry

• It is best to keep it simple as we want the attention on you. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from the real subject.

• If you have different jewelry for different outfits, place in a plastic bag and hang on the hanger with the outfits.

Props

• Bring them. Bring props that define who you are.

• Sports equipment and uniforms, musical instruments and activities such as dance leotard and shoes even skateboards to snowboards and skis are some suggestions. Your car or motorcycles are great for outdoor images too.

Glasses

• Most glasses glare and show distortion.

• It is best to check with your optometrist to borrow an empty set of frames similar to yours for your photo session.

• Please remember that an additional fee will be charged to remove any glass glare.

Sunburn and Tanning

• Avoid sunburn. Sunburn and peeling skin do not photograph well.

• If you are considering a tanning booth, don’t over do it so you look too fake and baked.

Pets

• They are welcomed.

• Just remember, that they might not be as excited to have their photograph taken as you are.

• They may also become antsy waiting for you to finish with the remainder of your session.

Weather for Outdoor Posing

• If it rains on the date of your session, don’t panic.

• We will have you come in to complete any indoor part and if you chose to, you may reschedule your outdoor part.

• Remember, even if it rained earlier in the day, but has cleared up for your appointment, the ground is still wet and may be uncomfortable for you to be photographed on.

Tattoos, scars and braces

• Just let the photographer know if you want tattoos to show or not.

• Scars are not automatically retouched, but can be removed or softened for an additional charge at your request.

• If you have braces, don’t fight smiling, we can retouch them out for an addition charge as well.