Pre-planning Session
Modern portrait sessions have evolved a great deal from the static, formal, impersonal events they once were. Portrait sessions are all about the experience, projecting personalities, moods, occasions, and events. Many photographic sessions are no longer being confined to the studio. Outdoor locations or settings at your home, a nearby park, or somewhere with that special meaning. Backdrops and props may be used according to your taste and the style in which you would like to be photographed.
A pre-portrait consultation with your photographer is recommended, as this will give you the opportunity to discuss your requirements and thoughts and the possible settings/venues for your portrait session.
If possible, present your photographer with
some magazine or other photo images which may illustrate the
style of photography
which appeals to you. This will aid you both in designing how your portrait may
look. Preparing for a portrait sitting in this manner will help to ensure that
at the end of the experience you have images which suit your tastes and style.
Note, there are many samples of poses available in the studio for your
consideration.
Take a selection of appropriate clothing to the photographic session (a changing room is available), as this will ensure that the photographer can provide you with a variety of images. Neutral colored clothes are generally thought to be the best, although these can be highlighted with splashes of bright colors to add interest. It is best, however, to avoid colors which are too intense, unless or course, this is what you feel most comfortable wearing.
If a child is to be photographed, remember to
take a favorite toy along to the portrait sitting, as well as
any accessories which
may help to bring out the child's personality. This will help to make the
child feel more secure, as well as add a more personal touch to the images.
Please be aware that there are several "props" available at the studio for use
in taking photographs.
Where photographing babies and very small children, it is important to timetable the session around their own individual routines. Photographing a tired or hungry child would not produce the best quality portraits, so it is vital that they are made to feel comfortable. Discuss the portrait sitting with the child beforehand to prepare them for the event. Feel free to bring the child to the studio as often as you please prior to the photo session so as to allow the child to become accustomed to the studio and the photographer. You are always welcome.