Tips for portraits

Simplicity is the key when it comes to planning a portrait. The following are tips and guidelines. Ultimately choose something you are comfortable in. Choose a color theme and clothing style that represents your family.

COLORS
White makes for an informal family portrait that works no matter what time of year it is. Couple the white tops or dresses with khaki, black or denim bottoms. Keep patterns to a minimum.
Outdoors against a beach scene:
White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light background.
Outdoors against green foliage:
White, khaki, blues, in different shades, and salmon are nice.

See Try to Avoid

COORDINATION
Portraits have a more unified look when everyone coordinates clothing. Choose clothes with colors that are in the same tonal range. This helps the focus to be on every persons face.
No one person should stand out because of clothing to light or bright.
Do not mix casual and formal attire.
Be sure to coordinate your shoes (or lack there of) with your clothing. Shoes/feet may show in some poses.

GROOMING
Simple hairstyles and natural makeup are best.
Men/Boys Haircuts, if planned, are better done several days before the portrait.
Have make-up handy for touch up.
Bring a comb, brush.
Women/girls should be photographed whenever they are happiest with their hair in relation to the time it is styled or permed.
Groom your hands, feet and nails; they usually end up in some pictures.

LENGTHS AND CUTS
Long or ¾ sleeves are recommended for adults and teens, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.
Necklines are important. A scoop or v-neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.

TRY TO AVOID
Avoid logos, branding.
Avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments, as well as bulky cowl neck sweaters and floppy necklines.
Avoid large or bold patterns (stripes, plaid, checks, paisley) and bright colors. They draw attention away from the face. Very simple garments always photograph best.
Avoid large, shiny objects like belt buckles, bold jewelry and reflective watches.
Avoid red; it fights for the eyes attention
Avoid beige, tan, peach, pink. Avoid green outdoors.