Location

Portaits can be shot in the studio or at the outdoor location of your choice. Keep in mind that lighting plays a key part in how your portrait turns out, so try to choose somewhere that has multiple options (i.e., a park with different vegetation and shade, a large backyard, a farm, by a river, etc.)

What To Bring

Hairbrush or comb, hairspray, mirror, makeup for touchups, any props you want in the portrait (favorite blanket, quilt, special stuffed animal, anything that matches your interests).  Please feel free to call and talk about any ideas you have for the portraits so we can brainstorm ideas together.

Clothing Selection

Your portrait will turn out the best if people notice your face - not your clothes.  Midtoned clothes work the best.  Darks (such as black or navy) and lights (whites and light pastels) tend to take the focus off you in portraits.  Also, solids are better than patterns (stripes can be especially distracting).  Choosing a classic look over something trendy is usually also desirable.

Long sleeves and long pants or skirts are also usually a better option - the skin on your arms and legs can easily compete with your face.

When taking a group photo, try to follow the above and also choose clothes with a similar style and color scheme.  If everyone is wearing khaki and one person has black pants, it will usually jump out at you in the photograph.

Scheduling

I usually schedule outdoor portraits in the evening about 1-2 hours before sunset or about an hour after sunrise.  The light is warmest at this time and will be the most flattering on your face.  Cloudy/overcast days are also a great time to schedule portraits. 

If the weather does not cooperate, and we will be doing outdoor portraits, we will re-schedule.

Other 

Having your portrait taken should be a fun experience that you enjoy and that brings out the best in you. Try not to overbook yourself.  Schedule a day when you are not rushed.