|  reating a perfect portrait takes a little planning. Fine portraiture
      captures facial expressions and mood, while clothing, accessories,
      and props are secondary and shouldn't create any distractions.
      Careful selection of these will avoid dating your portraits.
 
        
          |  This childis lost
 among
 the colorful
 clothes and
 toys."
 |  |  
  white background will show off skin tones best when white, ivory
      or pastels are worn. Be sure to select props that match clothing
      color. While the colorful pose is a great secondary portrait
      for a child's playroom, it may not be suitable for a "timeless"
      quality portrait.
 
        
          |  This is a 'timeless'
            portrait.... clothing and props have been well chosen." |  |  
  ith only two subjects in the portrait, it is especially important
      to dress in the same color(s) to capture their relationship.
 
        
          |  | A light suit commands
 attention
 and can add
 weight against
 a dark
 background."
 |  | "The busy pattern in
 this blouse
 is distracting."
 |  
  ith business attire a pure white shirt or blouse with a dark
      suit jacket will emphasize your neck rather than your face. Pastel,
      thin striped, or soft patterned shirt with subtle tie is preferable.
      You may want to bring extra clothing and accessories "just
      in case", and we will help you decide if something else
      would coordinate better.
 
 
        
          |  | "Excellent coordination.
            Expressions hold your eye."
 |  
  s a background, the outdoors is very busy. It is important to
      choose only one or two theme colors, with your subjects wearing
      shades of those colors. While blues are excellent all year, white,
      ivory, khaki and salmon are great against such lush green foliage.
      Burgundy, brown, tan, and gray are nice late in the season. Avoid
      all greens, as they clash with Mother Nature.
 
        
          |  |   "Simplicity of two colors helps
 separate
 family from
 the scenery."
 |  | "Busy background
 and busy
 clothes result
 in hard to
 find faces."
 |  
  hen you follow these tips and coordinate your dress from head
      to toe, you are well on your way to a perfect portrait!
 
        
          |  | "Cute expressions...
 much more
 striking
 because of
 the deep
 background
 selected to
 match their
 clothing"
 |  | "Light suit, red tie and
 white shirt
 fight for
 attention"
 |  
 
 
        
          |   
              Avoid busy patterns and bright colors.
              Light colors are best with light backgrounds and fair complexions.
              Darker colors look better with deep backgrounds and dark
              hair or complexions.
              White, ivory, khaki, or pastels are best with a white background.
              Avoid wearing yellow or green as they can adversely affect
              skin color.
              Shoes or socks should be in key.
              Teens and adults should wear long sleeves to cover elbows.
              Skirts should cover the knees.
             |  |