Portrait Tips

• Simplicity is the keynote.

• Solid colors are best. Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors. They draw attention away from the face.

• Elbow length or long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommend. (Short sleeves are acceptable for infants and small children).

• Coordinate your attire from head to toe selecting appropriate shoes and stockings for full-length poses. Children may be photographed with bare feet.

• Darker clothing minimizes body size and light tones tend to emphasize body size.

• Necklines are important. A "vee" or scoop neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.

• Dress everyone in the same style of clothing. Do not mix casual and formal attire. Formal clothing results in more formal poses. If you are hoping for a more relaxed portrait, or if you select an outdoor location, select more casual clothing.

• Keep the tonal range of clothing within the group the same. Do not mix light and dark values. Save patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.

• White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light background. Blues, white, ivory, khaki and salmon are nice outdoors against green foliage. Burgundy, brown, tan and gray are nice late in the season. Avoid greens for outdoor portraits because they tend to clash with Mother Nature.

• Haircuts or perms, if planned, are better done several days before the portrait. Have make-up and hair grooming materials handy for touch up.

• For children, the best time to schedule is usually mid-morning. Bring along a few favorite, small toys. It is best not to offer food during the portrait session.

• For children it’s best not to practice saying "cheese." Leave it to us to get the real smiles.

• If you must postpone your portrait session, please give us as much notice as possible, 24 hours is preferred.

• Call Tisara Photography at 703/838-8098 to schedule to portrait.