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L&H Photography ~ Our Blog

Portraits Photography

How to take the Pain out of Pictures!

How to make the
MOST
out of being photographed
 
 
Or what we like to call
"How to Take the Pain
Out of Pictures"
 
 
For everyone that has ever had
to have a THEIR  photo taken... THIS BLOG'S FOR YOU!
 
 
Yup!   We're talking pictures that you
have no control over but have to have done
 
 
  • Membership & Association I.D.s
  • Press Releases
  • Head Shots for Business Cards & Advertising
  • Newspaper Articles
  • Company I.D Badges &
  • Of course,  the DREADED DRIVER'S LICENSE PHOTO!!!!  
 
 
If you have always thought that you look terrible in pictures or are not photogenic,  then we have good news:
 
There are some basic tips that you can follow to get the most out of being photographed, whether on a shoot, for I.D. photos or even in your own family snapshots!
 
 
HERE ARE OUR TOP (3) HINTS TO HELP YOU OUT!
 
           
  BE PREPARED!

Nobody has to know that you practiced smiling in the mirror.  Look in the mirror, what angles make your face/body look best.    
 
Take a look at how you stand naturally, fold your arms, bend a knee, turn slightly sideways,
just tipping your head can change the whole
shape of your face.   
 
 
 

WHAT'S YOUR STYLE?
 
Wear something that you are totally comfortable in.  Avoid new things, like hair styles or, changes in your makeup at the last minute.    Have your hair cut at least 7 days before your photo to give it a chance to settle and have some natural regrowth.
 
 
TRY TO RELAX! 
 
To get a great shot, you have to relax. A fake smile or rigid expression will  look  odd so it’s vital that you try to have fun. Think of being photographed as a fun way to capture a moment in time, for whatever reason, so lose yourself in it and you will shake off your awkwardness.
 
Physically shaking out your arms and legs can help let go of tension. Try it between pictures.  Remember to relax your face often, if you try to hold that smile for too long it will just look SCARY !

Getting Ready for Your Photo Session

 
Getting Ready for
Your Portrait Session
 
 
 
 
A little advanced planning can really aid in making sure you get the family portrait you want.  
 
Here are some easy, practical ideas to think about.  
 
Remember to discuss any questions or ideas you may have in advance with your photographer
 
 
 
  • Choose a simple color scheme for your portrait. Too many busy patterns and color are distracting. Colors should be harmonious. Coordinate the clothing in a group portrait so that one person will not dominate the scene. Coordinating colors creates harmony in a portrait.
 
  • Dark clothing helps to minimize size, light tones tend to emphasize body size. Most people look best in darker colors. Choosing solid colors is usually flattering to everyone.
 
  • Don't overlook shoes and socks they are an important piece as you choose your portrait clothing. They should compliment, not contrast. Carefully consider your apparel from head to toe so that a variety of full length and close up poses may be taken.
  • Dress for Small Children
    Overly cute, play clothes can detract from your professionally made portrait. Stick with the basic guidelines for adults when planning outfits for your child.
 
  • Dress for Business Portraits
    With “business attire”, a pure white shirt will emphasize your neck rather than your face. Pastel, thin striped or soft patterned shirt with a subtle tie is preferred. You may want to bring extra clothing and accessories “just in case”, and we will help you decide if something else would coordinate better,
 
 
  • Dress for Outdoor Portraits
    As a background, the outdoors is very busy. It is important to choose only one or two theme colors.  Casual jeans and solid blues are excellent all year, white, ivory, khaki and salmon are great against lush green foliage. Earth tones like brown, tan and gray are nice late in the season.
 
 
Avoid all greens, as they clash with Mother Nature. The simplicity of two colors help separate the subject from
the scenery. Busy backgrounds and busy clothes
result in hard to find faces.  Jeans and sweaters always look good outdoors.
 
Don't wear baseball hats that might cast a shadow on eyes.
 
 
FINAL REMINDERS:

1) Simple is always best. 
2) Avoid busy patterns & prints.
3) Wear solid colors.
4) Don't wear yellow or green.  They can affect skin color.
5) Footwear should match the rest of the outfit.
6) Teens & adults should wear long sleeves to cover elbows.
7) Large jewelry can distract especially large earrings.
8) Women: apply standard makeup with a light foundation.
9) Men: a fresh shave is best unless you want for an edgy look.
10) Now is not the time to experiment with a new hair style.
 
 
Follow these these tips, coordinate your dress
 from head to toe, you are well on your
 way to a Perfect Portrait!
 
Contact us to book your appointment today!

If you have any questions,
please call us at the studio for more information.   207-357-1331