Preparing for Your Portrait
Clothing, Color, Tone And Style...
When creating a portrait, the objective always is for the faces to dominate. Skin highlights should be the brightest or most intense areas of the portrait, whatever the skin tone of the subjects. That is why it is important to plan the portrait carefully, down to the last detail. Clothing and prop choices can make or break the image. Clothing and objects in the image can help direct the viewers attention to the subject or direct attention away from them. Here are some simple guidelines for clothing and props that enhance the quality of the finished portrait.
Clothing should be simple style and in the same tonal range (light, medium or dark). When subjects mix very light and dark tones together, the contrast can draw attention away from the subjects. For instance, if you plan on wearing a dark burgundy colored sweater, wear brown, charcoal or black pants rather than khaki or cream colored ones.
Clothing for couples is very important to coordinate. When deciding what to wear for your portrait, it is important that neither one stands out more than the other, that you be in tonal harmony with each other. Proper clothing selection can make the couple look unified in purpose and outlook, like they belong together.
Here is another idea to help you decide what clothing color to wear. Decide where you will display the portrait then look at the accent colors within that room. Try using an accent color from the room decor. One last color tip: The majority of people (regardless of race, age or gender) have skin tones that look best in colors that do not include lime green, bright yellow, orange and rust.
When deciding which style of portraiture you would like for your portrait, it is best to reflect the personality of the people in the photograph. If you live a casual lifestyle, a traditional, formal portrait may not be the best style of portraiture for you. Remember, you want this to be a memory of you as you are today.
Additional Tips on Preparing For Your Portrait:
Turtle necks or v-necks are flattering provided that neither is exaggerated in style. Avoid very wide or particularly deep v-neck garments or bulky cowl neck sweaters that completely hide the neck.
For close-up portraits, long sleeves are essential, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face. Remember, no matter how slim your arms are, they may appear larger in a portrait.
Women being photographed in full length should wear longer skirts, pants, or dark nylons in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the legs and away from the face.
Women being photographed in full length should wear longer skirts, pants, or dark nylons in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the legs and away from the face.
Feet may show in the portrait, so be sure to wear socks and shoes that compliment the outfit you are wearing.
Men should be clean-shaven or facial hair should be carefully groomed.
Hair cuts should be planned about one week before the portrait session. Women should be photographed whenever they are happiest with their hair in relation to the time it is styled or cut.
