Tips for Better Photos

Children and Infants
• Feel free to bring along a favorite stuffed animal, toy, book or other item for your children's session. Something to keep them entertained between shooting is a plus!

• Also bring a change of clothing for babies in case they dirty what they are wearing, and anything else a baby would need! Food, diapers, bottles, etc.

• Make sure children are fed and rested, please! Very early morning, and late at night are not good times for children's portraits.

• Sometimes children do not want to smile. I want to capture a real smile, not a forced one. Please do not get upset, I will do everything I can to make it a memorable photo without a cheesy forced smile.

• If a tantrum occurs with either children or infants, I will not leave until I've gotten some good shots, or rescheduled another shoot.

General Tips
• Keeping everyone's clothing in the same color tone (either warm or cold) or color scheme makes for a more professional looking photo for your family.

• You may dress casual (jeans, etc) or formal. Some like to wear khaki's and white shirts or black shirts and jeans.

• Avoid stripes and busy patterns. Darker colors bring out skin tones better than light ones.

• Long sleeves are better than short sleeves or sleeveless.

• Make sure your shoes match too! There is always the option of barefoot, especially for children.

• Props are fine for your portraits, just don't overdo it! If you are into sports you could bring something related such as your letterman jacket, a football, bat, etc. If you are a musician or hobbyist, bring your instrument or hobby equipment for special photos. This is especially important for senior year photos.

• Pets are welcome to join you for your session but PLEASE bring someone to hold them for you while you are in session. And please let the photographer know a pet is coming.

• Don't have your hair cut right before your portrait. Let it grow out a little so it looks more natural.

• If you have a heavy beard and don't want that five o'clock shadow to show, please shave before you come in to the session.

• Pay attention to your nails, take care of chipped polish before you arrive.

• Please don't wear tinted glasses, or glasses that darken in the light.

• Remove cell phones, car keys or anything else that will look like a "lump" in the pockets.

• If you've seen a pose somewhere that you like, have the picture available or write it down so we can try it.

• Attitude is important for photos. It's ok to be nervous, hopefully it will be short-lived as you have fun during your session.