Info:

Booking your session with me couldn't be easier - simply click on the contact page and either call, or send me a quick email to arrange a consultation.

The studio runs by appointment only.

Your session:

General It is very important to get a good night sleep before your session, also drinking lots of fluids will improve your skin texture.
Simplicity is the key to a successful portrait.
Think about what type of portrait you want and bring in the necessary outfits that capture that look.

Clothing Think about what type of portrait you want and bring in your favorite outfits that capture that look. If you are taking full length photos, don't forget shoes, hosiery, etc.
Your face should be the focal point of your portraits. Long sleeve solids or very subtle prints are usually the most flattering in portraits. Remember, if you are self-conscious about your arms do not wear sleeveless tops.
Earth tones are best for outdoor portraits, since we can drop you into an outdoor background if you request it before your photo session.
Traditional styles will stand the test of time and keep your portrait looking fresh for years to come.
Busy patterns and bright/loud colors can be very distracting in your portraits, however, subtle aloha wear is always nice. Avoid large and bold patterns that might tend to draw attention away from your face.
Solid colors are best but avoid solid white outfits.
In a group or family portrait, proper clothing coordination is critical. Do not mix casual and formal attire and choose clothing in the same tonal ranges (i.e. do not mix light and dark values) so that no single member stands out.

Props Props can help to show your personality and record the types of activities you are involved in. Be sure to bring some of your own props to your portrait session. Here are some ideas:

Flowers
Musical Instrument
Jacket
Uniform
Hats
Sports Equipment
Stuffed Animals
Sunglasses
Beach Props
Make-Up and Hair Styles

Ladies: Don't forget your necessities...makeup, hair brush, hair spray, etc.
Be careful when applying foundation. You do not want your face to be one color and your upper body another.
Apply makeup as you would if you were going to a formal occasion in the evening. In other words, using a bit more than you would during the day.
Use enough powder base for a matte finish to avoid any shiny or oily appearance on your face.
Pay special attention to your eyes, as they will be the most important part of your portrait. Eye shadow should be a lighter color to bring your eyes forward.
If you plan to get your hair cut, do it at least 1-2 weeks before your appointment.
Allow two weeks for a fresh perm to relax.
Don't experiment with new hair styles the day of your session.
If you prefer, a professional make-up artist can be arranged for $75 to make you look glamorous.

Gents: Remember to shave before your session... a "five o'clock shadow" cannot be removed from the finished portrait.

Kids: The goal here is to keep kids entertained and interested for the duration of the shoot. You are invited to bring favorite toys, security blankets, books and music to help your child relax and play. Try to make sure your band of merry men and women are fed, watered and rested before the session.

Accessories If you wear glasses all of the time, you'll probably want them in your portraits but please keep in mind that light will glare and reflect on the lenses. Also, tinted lenses may darken under studio lighting. It is very difficult to remove the glare once a photo is produced so it may be best to avoid it entirely by removing your glasses or removing the lenses temporarily from your frames.
Items such as watches, glasses, and other tight fitting jewelry or clothing can leave red marks on your skin and can take up to an hour to disappear. Please be sure you remove them at least an hour before showing up for your appointment. Fine watches, rings, necklaces, pins and bracelets are always in good taste and should be coordinated with each outfit you bring.
If your hands will be in the photograph, be sure your nails are manicured. Finally...

Relax and have fun! Allow the beautiful you to shine from within!

© 2011 Mike Long Click here for copyright notice details