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Clothing
& Prop Guidelines
These guidelines will help you
determine what clothing you wear to make a memorable portrait.
Clothing……
The goal of a fine
portrait is to direct the viewer’s attention to the face in a portrait.
are pleasing
choices when photographed against a dark background.
Bold stripes,
plaids, checks and prints are confusing and DO NOT photograph well.
Light-colored
clothing calls attention to itself and away from the face. Tending to
leave the subject pale and washed out.
Light colors are
appropriate against a white or pastel background.
Bright colors such
as red and orange will completely overpower the face and ruin a
portrait.
Clothing in medium
shades complement portraits made in outdoor environments.
Couples & Families
Proper
clothing coordination is critical. Couples and groups should choose
simple garments within the same tonal ranges so that no single member of
the group stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as
compared to the rest of the group. Light and dark tones together create
visual confusion. Clothing that blends harmoniously creates timeless
portraiture because the viewer’s eye goes directly to the faces.
REMEMBER:
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Very simple
garments
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Turtle necks or
V-necks are flattering provided that neither is exaggerated in
style.
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Long sleeves
are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to
themselves and will overpower the face.
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Women being
photographed in full length should wear long skirts, pants, or dark
stockings in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the
legs and away from the face.
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If feet are to
show in the portrait, make certain shoes and stockings are in
keeping with the visual intent of the portrait.
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Men should have
their hair cut 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.
Props….
Props are the
accents of your portrait. Bring what expresses your interests:
Anything that
portrays your personality. |