To help you communicate the desired look of your family portrait to a photographer, ask yourself these questions

• What style best suits our family: formal, informal; in studio or outdoor location; black and white or color?
• Where will the photograph be displayed in our home: will a vertical, horizontal or square shape be best for that space; do the room colors suggest what clothing colors the family should wear?

These two photographs represent the difference between a snapshot and a professional portrait.


Typical Snapshot                 Professional Portrait

My recommendations to make your portrait pleasurable for many years and not become "old fashioned" are:

• Dress in basics, not current fashions. Avoid stripes, patterns and coordinate colors to increase the feeling of closeness within a family.
• Favor dark colors if anyone is weight conscious; long sleeves and long pants or skirts are preferred; avoid exotic hair-do's or jewelry.
• Schedule the portrait session for late afternoon or early morning to take advantage of the soft light which is far more flattering than direct sunlight.

Please contact me to discuss your special considerations or needs.