TOP TIPS FOR GETTING READY

How to prepare for your shoot

Women

Hair:  No fresh haircuts (At least a week in advance).  Touch up highlights one to two weeks prior to the session.  If you color your hair don't forget the roots. Bring hairspray to the session in case it is windy.

Makeup: Start with well hydrated skin.  Put makeup on a little heavier than normal. Avoid SPF makeup, as it tends to create a shiny look.  Put your makeup on in natural light if possible.  Think about false eyelashes or two coats of mascara.   Make sure your skin is matte.    

Skin:  Prints will be retouched.  So don't worry if you start breaking out before the shoot.  Don't try and catch up on your tan three days prior to the session.

Accessories:  Don't forget to accessorize! Hats, scarves, jewelry, boots, jackets, belts, and coats make stylish additions to your basic outfits. Accessories contribute to a variety of looks for your portrait collections.  If you play sports, bring sticks, balls, letterman jackets, helmets, bats, workout clothes, sheet music, instruments. 

Individualize:  Personal props help visually define who you are. Some popular choices are: sports equipment, musical instruments, posters, pennants, teddy bears, hunting equipment, skateboards, uniforms, and collectibles. Look inside yourself to find your personal symbols; then look in your closet!

Shoes: Most pictures will not have the shoes showing, so don't go crazy trying to match the shoes to the outfit.  Will be sure to include the shoes when you tell me they are a special pair.

Who are you ?  Bring something unique for the shoot.  Go out on a limb.  Try something a little wild.  Be who you want to be.  Have some fun with this.  I invite creative ideas for the session.  Bring ideas with clothes and props!!

Camera Colors

The camera dislikes stripes, plaids and detailed prints. The camera loves solid colors and jewel tones. Black is back and it looks great on everybody. Think "creative." Think "variety." We want you to bring several color choices so we can coordinate them with different backgrounds and most flattering sets.

Fashion Bulletin: Be your own fashion editor! Choose different styles, colors, and textures of clothing. Remember that your pictures can represent all seasons. Bring a range of clothing despite the actual weather.

Day before:  On the day before your session, prepare and press your clothes. Arrange them by outfits and group them together on hangars. (Don't forget to pack the proper under garments too!) Try on the outfits. Be critical of the way they fit. Are you pleased with each "look?" If you don't like a certain look in the mirror, then you won't like that look in a photograph either. Pack your make-up, jewelry, props, and hair preparation products.  Be sure your nails are neat and un-chipped.

Men

Shave before the session

Haircuts at least a week before the session if you are going to get one

No shorts, bring a couple of shirts, jackets, sports gear, instruments.  Anything that you are interested in.

Bring a sense of humor, the torture isn't that bad.  Have some fun!!!