Close-Ups

For your yearbook photo or other head and shoulders or close-up poses, dress in something very simple both in color and style. Boys can choose a suit, sport coat, or sweater. For girls, a plain dress, sweater or blouse with a simple neckline is best. Both boys and girls should wear long sleeves to keep the eye from being drawn to the flesh of the arms.

Clothing Color & Style Make the Difference!

Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait, with all other elements being secondary. Against a medium or dark background, colors that photograph best for the yearbook portrait and other close-up poses are medium to dark tones of green, brown, rust, wine, or blue. Darker shades are more slimming.

Against a medium or dark background, avoid light colors that approximate flesh tones such as beige, tan, peach, pink, white and yellow. These colors not only dominate a portrait and overpower the face, but also drain color from the face and make the wearer appear unusually pale.

Bare shoulders or tops with "Spaghetti straps" often make the subject look heavier and take the eye away from the face.

Especially bright colors such as red, orange, or pink, will ruin a portrait because their intensity overwhelms the face.

Stripes, plaids, checks, and bold prints also draw the eye away from the face and do not photograph well.

Informal Poses and Special Styles Tell the World Who You Are!

Informal portraits invite much more variety in clothing, color, and style. Girls can choose a favorite sports outfit, dress, prom dress, shorts, jeans outfit - the colors you really enjoy.

Possible choices for boys include a suit, jeans outfit, a casual or sports outfit, or a school or other jacket. Bring extra outfits, and we'll help you choose.

Seniors who like the white-on-white portraits should bring a white or very pale pastel outfit.

Black is a good choice for black-and-white portraits or for a dramatic look in color.

Express Yourself And Your World!

If you have a hobby, then bring it along! Musical instruments, art supplies, theatrical garb, cheerleading or athletic uniforms, band uniforms, stuffed animals, skateboards, pets, girlfriends, boyfriends, and buddies. Think creatively and you'll have a portrait to remember!

Enjoy the Fun of an Outdoor Session

Bring a casual outfit that will blend with natural outdoor settings. Earth tones are an excellent choice. Also remember that simple styles photograph best.

If you have an outdoor hobby or interest - backpacking or jogging for example, bring your gear. We'll also be happy to photograph you with your car, bike, or motorcycle.

Planning for Your Session

Hair - Don't try a new hairstyle just for your session. And, have your hair cut around a week before your session is scheduled.

Skin Problems - Don't worry if you develop a skin problem. Our finished images can be fully retouched to eliminate blemishes and soften harsh lines.

Glasses - Problems with glasses can lead to extra retouching charges. We can remove glare on glasses, but tinted lenses cannot be lightened even with artwork. In this case, you should ask  your optometrist for a pair of empty frames to wear for your portrait session. If  you have any questions regarding your glasses or extra retouching charges on glasses, please contact us.

Braces - Braces can be removed with artwork at an extra charge. However, some dentists are willing to remove braces for your session if you take the time to schedule the procedure.

Tanning - Removing tan or sunburn lines will incur additional retouching charges.

For Girls... Makeup can affect the way your portrait looks. Both fresh, natural makeup, or "evening" makeup photograph well.

For Boys...A fresh shave is a must! If you have a beard or mustache, make sure it is trimmed to your liking.

Copyright © 2008 MB Images