So, you are thinking of getting a portrait created but you are wondering what to wear. Not to worry, we are here to assist you with every step of the portrait process.  In fact we will ask you to come to the studio (if possible) for a pre session consultation. This is where we discuss your desired outcome for the portrait. Is it a piece of art for your wall, part of an album of images? We walk you through the various options then once we get your input for what you'd like us to create we will discuss location, backgrounds and clothing.

Timeless Treasures

If you are going to create art for your home you want to wear something that is fairly timeless. Meaning you don't want the latest trendy clothing, hair styles and the like. You don't want to look at this piece of art in 10 years and laugh at the clothing you wore. That is why we work very hard to create timeless art portraits for our clients. Something classic and timeless that will look as good in 10 or even 20 years as it does today. 

Getting back to clothing. For our contemporary color portraits we always suggest coordinating your colors as a family. Not always necessarily matching, although that isn't always bad either as with the two brothers to the right. But simply selecting clothing with colors that would look good if worn all by one person in the family. Having your portrait taken outdoors, we suggest either earth tones (depending on the season of course) or colors that work with your environment.

For black and white all black is not a necessity. In fact we often prefer that at least one or two persons wear a darker solid color that is not black such as gray, maroon, navy blue and the like. This helps to keep the subjects from blending into the background. 

Tips on Looking Your Best

What Colors Are Best?

Solid mid-range colors work best. Black and darker colors recede and slim. White dominates and can make people look larger in the photograph. Go with the background. In studio we use mostly darker browns and blue drops. If outdoors choose more earth tone colors. Colors should go well together but everyone does not have to match. Avoid bright colors that dominate as well as patterns that will look “busy.” For black and white portraits choose dark tones of grays, browns, greens or navy, black and maroon.  

Go Long

 Long sleeves and long pants are usually the best choice. Remember it’s your face you want viewers to see. Short sleeves, bare shoulders and spaghetti straps can make you look heavier. Of course there are always exceptions, especially if you are thinner and well toned.

 Knees & Feet 

Knees and even feet can show when seated so women should keep this in mind if they are not wearing pants. White shoes call attention to your feet and flip flops look too casual. However, bare feet are a good choice for casual portraits inside as well as outdoors.

 Hair

Women usually will style their hair. Men and children should wait a week or more from the time of a haircut. Beards and mustaches should be neat and trimmed.

Rest assured that we will assist you with planning your portrait especially with your wardrobe. Have any questions about clothing options for portraits? Email or call us @719.475.0160.