Everyone
Some things to keep in mind.
HAIR.... Avoid changing your hairstyle or cutting your hair right before your session. Let it be natural. Quick easy hairstyle changes during your session are OK, but make it quick or you lose camera time. Bring your hair care tools and products. Make sure you like the look in the mirror. Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility.
PROPS BRING THEM!! Bring props that help define who you are. Some popular choices are: Sports equipment (soccer ball, football, golf clubs), sports uniforms, musical instruments (from school tuba to rock guitar), activities (dance leotard and shoes, swimming, hobbies, you name it!). You can be photographed with your vehicles, motorcycles, cars, or trucks during your outdoor session.
GLASSES...Most glasses glare! Some prescriptions more than others, even the non glare ones. Your best bet is to check with your eye doctor. Most will "loan" you an empty set of frames similar to yours for your photo session. An older pair of glasses without lenses is a good option.
COMPLEXION We retouch blemishes, so don't worry about minor breakouts.
PETS.... Pets are OK as long as they are house broken. It is a good idea to have a family member bring a pet, then leave with them after. Or bring a pet carrier to contain them while you are being photographed without them. Treats can be helpful to hold a dogs attention.
WEATHER FOR OUTDOOR PORTRAITS..... Let's face it, we are at the mercy of mother nature. If it rains, don't worry we'll do your indoor session and simply reschedule the outdoor part. Don't worry about clouds, they actually HELP! Remember even if it's raining still come for the indoor part of your session. It's much easier just to reschedule the outside part for another time.
Did your braces stay on a little longer than you wanted? We can remove them in your portraits for a fee.
Helpful Hints Girls
First ....ARRIVE 5 MINUTES EARLY.
If your late you lose time taking pictures. Bring a variety of color, don't bring 5 blue outfits even if it is your favorite color. Solids photograph best! Avoid clothing that has wording on it except for your own school logo. Vary the style, all one look (like tanks) gets boring. Vary the dress level, bring some dressy, some medium and some casual. Remember, it is best to do one or two outfits that mom will like, then we can do the stuff YOU like. A good staple outfit is a pair of jeans and dark shirt, black or gray!!
We suggest you bring a couple of extra outfits so we can help you pick the ones that will work best.
Some shots are close up, others are full length. Plan outfits completely including shoes.
Group your outfits together, ON HANGERS. Don't stuff your clothes in a bag.
CLOTHING STYLES... Make sure your clothing flatters you. Be careful of sleeveless styles, they can make your arms look bigger. If you don't have thin arms shirts with sleeves are best. We don't really tell you what you can and can not wear. We photograph everything from prom dresses to jean shorts.
MAKEUP Makeup should a little heavier than normal. About like you might wear for an evening out. Mascara should be clean and contain no clumps. Avoid makeup with "sparkles or highlighter" in it. When you move, it makes a nice shimmer, but in a photo, where you are still, it creates a little white spot.
Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color. A little lip gloss with a slight color is great for bringing out your lips.
FINGER & TOE NAILS SHOW! If they have the paint all chipped off, it will show. Many casual shots are done barefoot, so don't forget about those toes! Avoid real bright colors. Natural or basic work best.