You’re ready for a new family portrait, but where do you begin? Here are some tips for creating amazing, timeless images while also providing a relaxed experience.
Family portraits are so important! They are a way to capture the personality, connection, and love of your family. Taking the time to do some thoughtful planning can determine the look of your final portraits and result in display-worthy images that you will treasure forever. Below are tips to help you prepare, stay relaxed, and enjoy the experience.
Before the Session
Outfit Tips
Clothing Selection
Consider the rooms where you will display your new wall portrait. Do you have colors that you love to use when decorating? These colors can assist in creating a pleasing color palette for your clothing selection. Are you unsure? I would recommend incorporating a cohesive color palette that compliments your surroundings. I provide a complimentary color guide during our in-person planning time. Should you choose to capture your portrait in our studio, I will choose a backdrop that coordinates with your selections. Neutrals always look nice together. I am available to assist when making clothing decisions. Make sure your clothing is ironed ahead of time.
Keep Outfits Simple
Solid colors or subtle patterns photograph well. Logos and large prints can be very distracting and deter the eye from subjects.
Long sleeves always look nice and bring attention to the face. V-neck tops are slimming.
These are general tips, I realize that individual tastes my slightly differ. These are YOUR images, I just want you to love them! 🙂
Makeup
Think Soft Evening Look
Make-up application should be slightly more than your everyday look, this adds polish to an image. A little lip gloss also always looks very pretty!
Day of Session
Arrive Relaxed
Trust me, I have you! A calm start leads to more natural smiles and happier children and parents. Running a little late? It’s okay, I would much rather have you arrive a little late than come feeling stressed.
Bring
I have water and treats (some are great for bribing!) However, please feel free to bring snacks that make your littles light up! If I know what your family likes or has special dietary needs, I am also happy to purchase appropriate snacks in advance. You may want to bring makeup, such as your own lip gloss. I have brushes, combs, hairspray, and lots of other items available in the studio. If there happens to be a change in the weather or a mishap, it never hurts to have spare outfits or layers, especially for children.
Remember – Perfection Doesn’t Exist
Focus on your beautiful family connection. But when you are desiring that “perfect” image, whatever that may be for your wall, in most cases I am quite good at compositing an image in the best possible way!
Welcome to our fine art photography studio based in Algona, Iowa, specializing in creating custom, heirloom-quality wall portraits and albums designed to become treasured family keepsakes. Our studio focuses on providing a personalized, stress-free experience from planning to finished artwork. We specialize in family & children’s portraits. Come visit us in northwest Iowa or Contact Me for more information! Let’s have fun and create amazing art together!
