BEFORE YOUR SESSION

Family groupings are done in your home or done at an outdoor location or in our studio.  We want your family to look natural and relaxed.  For this reason, we do not recommend in studio family groupings of more than four people.  Good locations are those where you spend family time.  Your home, cottage, the beach or on the family boat are some suggestions.

Clothing preparation for groups is a major concern.  Solid colors and long sleeve (or 3/4 sleeve) are highly recommended. Prints, patterns and stripes distract and can clash with patterns worn by another family member.   The best advice is to think of the entire family’s apparel as one outfit.  Meaning, don’t put a print or color on another family member that you would not add to your own outfit.  Everyone’s clothing should blend and go together.  If you need assistance in this area, we’re more than happy to help out.  A little planning here will result in a far superior final product.

Also take into consideration the room where the portrait will hang.  It’s best to wear colors that will complement the décor of the room.  If the intended room is decorated in pastels or other light colors, keep your clothing light as well.  The frame should also be light in color.  If the portrait is planned to hang in a darker room, such as a den, library or above a heavily wooded fireplace mantle, then select clothing in the darker shades such as burgundy, plum, deep greens and navy.  Khaki works well with light and dark colors.  Having the portrait taken in the room where it will hang is a wonderful idea, the colors of the room will be reflected in the portrait!