Frequently Asked Questions and Style Guide:
Welcome to your photography session! Below is a list of general tips and commonly asked questions. Please do not hesitate to reach out for additional information.
Where should the session take place?
Locations will vary based on the look and feel you would like for your final images. Are you interested in a country look with backgrounds of flowers, tall grass or fall foliage, or more of an urban layout? Is there a certain environmental feature that you would like to appear in your photos, such as a rustic bridge or barn? We can suggest some options based on your preferences, or try someplace new! Our only limitation is that shoots are not done on private property without permission, or on railroad tracks.
When should the session take place?
The best time for outdoor photos on sunny days is early in the morning, or within the two hours prior to the sunset time for that day, so the exact start time will vary based on the season. Your session will likely need to be re-scheduled if there is rain, extreme heat or cold, or high wind.
What should I/we wear?
Again, this varies based on your personal preferences, as well as skin tone and body type. Choose items that make you feel great when you wear them! The main items to avoid are crazy prints, large brand logos, graphics, or any type of printed words on your clothing. The focal point(s) of the images should be faces that are complimented by the outfits, not overpowered by them. Layers and bold solid colors always look great (think Gap ad), as do subdued prints paired with solid colors. Deep reds/burgundy, blues/denim, greens, peach/tangerine, purples, and pops of yellow all look great in photos. The colors can be paired with neutrals, such as tan, cream, and gray. Individuals with blue or green eyes are particularly flattered by a top in a similar shade.
Be sure to check all aspects of an outfit, including the bottoms of shoes. Anything and everything may show up in an image. It is recommended that clothing be new or only very gently worn. Items with fading colors or pilling do not photograph as well.
For families, a suggested strategy is to choose 2-3 coordinating colors, and weave those colors throughout your outfits for a unified look that does not appear too 'matchy'. Select a color palette of pastels or bold tones, depending on your desired look. It may be easiest to choose mom's clothing first, and plan from there. Clothing stores tend to have color schemes from season to season, so shopping for everyone at one store is a simple way to find coordinated outfits.
For high school seniors, feel free to bring several outfit options, from casual to dressy. There will be time for wardrobe changes built into your session.
Any tips for hair & make-up?
For H.S. Senior photos or headshots, professional hair and make-up are recommended, unless you are very confident in your own skills in this area. This will especially add to the overall experience for our senior girls. We do not require you to use any particular salon, so you may book your favorite stylist a few hours prior to your shoot time. Let the make-up artist know that photos will be taken during the day in natural light.
In general, a pretty and fresh look using matte make-up is best. Heavy application of eyeliner should be avoided, as this will not photograph well at a distance. Also, make sure that nails are trimmed and do not have chipped polish.
For all ages and genders-- moisturize faces and lips, and apply a little powder to foreheads, noses, and chins. Do not be concerned with blemishes, scratches, or under eye circles/puffiness, however. These can be touched up during the editing process.
What are some tips for families?
With small children, please do not worry if everyone is not immediately ready to be photographed. There will be plenty of time to allow your children to warm up to the situation, and the goal will be a relatively stress-free experience for you. In order to set us up for success, be sure to have all family members well-rested and fed prior to your session, and if you have a certain time of day that is naptime or the "witching hour", we will schedule around it. Discuss with children ahead of time regarding what is going to be happening during the session, share your expectations for behavior, and consider offering up a treat that will be taking place after the session if everyone cooperates. It's also a good idea to bring some non-messy snacks, waters, wet wipes, small toys to hold, and a hairbrush for touch-ups.
How long until my photos are ready?
It will take approximately 2-4 weeks for your photos to be ready to view, depending on the time of year (fall is the busiest season) and type of photo session. Please let us know if your needs are time sensitive.