faq

Great portraitures do not happen by accident...they take planning. Following are client's most frequently asked questions. If you have a question you do not see here, please feel free to contact me.

What time should I arrive for my portrait session?

Plan to arrive 10 minutes early. You will be relaxed, and your session can be completed on schedule.

What if I wear glasses?

Glasses cause distortion to your facial features. There may also be glass glare from photographic lights or the background of your enviornmental portraiture. Any tint to your glasses will darken under photographic lights or sunlight. 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, please contact us.

Should I bring someone with me?

Definitely! It will help you feel comfortable and relaxed. They know the "real" you and can help you make those last minute adjustments.

What if I have a skin problem?

Don't worry if you develop a skin problem. Your finished portraits will be fully retouched to eliminate blemishes and soften harsh lines.

What if I want to bring a pet?

Animals are always welcome! But please bring a "handler" for your pet. This person can provide supervision for your pet during your other portraits.

What if my parents and I like different poses?

No problem! We create plenty of poses to please both you and your parents. You can order from as many poses as you want.

When do I decide what portraits I want to order?

After you have seen your previews. Don't worry...you will receive a complete explanation of our preview process and timeline at your session.

Can I order additional portraits later?

Certainly...but be sure to order plenty of wallets with your initial order to avoid reorder charges.

What if it's cloudy or raining the day of my session?

Please come...cloudy days are actually best for photography. If you have inside and outside sessions scheduled and it's raining, we can do your indoor portraits and schedule your outdoor portraits for another day.

What if I want to look really tan?

Remember, you want your portraits to have a classic look. A more refined, natural look is attractive and a look that will endure for decades.

What if I never wear makeup?

Please use makeup for your photography session! Keep makeup natural and fresh. Blending skin and accenting the eyes and lips is a must. For Guys: A fresh shave is a must! Retouching cannot remove a five-o'clock shadow. If you want a rougher/tougher-looking portrait for a special effect, schedule this for another time.

What are the most important tips?

  1. Don't try a new hairstyle just for your session. Have your hair cut around a week before your session.
  2. Turtlenecks and V-necks are flattering provided neither is exaggerated in style. Avoid wide or partcularly deep V-neck garments or bulky cowlneck sweaters that completely hide the neck.
  3. For close-up portraits, long sleeves are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.
  4. Make sure your clothes fit. The "baggy" clothing styles do not photograph in a flattering way. But anything too tight might confine or even inhibit your ability to pose for your portrait. Color is one of the most important decisions. Choose colors that are complimentary to your skin tone. Select something you have worn and feel good in.
  5. If you cannot decide which outfits to wear, feel free to bring along additional choices and I will help you decide which ones will photograph the best.
  6. Dress from head to toe! Remember all that you will need to complete an outfit: socks, shoes, nylons, belts and jewelry are some of the commonly forgotten items.
  7. We want you to enjoy your session...this means we want you to have fun! Be sure to bring any special props with you: hats, scarves, sunglasses, sports equipment, musical instruments... whatever makes you..."you"!