serving Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC

 Children's & Family Portrait Photography

Key Points in Dressing for Portraits - by Carl Cox

• Simplicity is the keynote.
• Solid colors are best.  Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors.  They draw attention away from the face.
• Long sleeved dresses and shirts are recommended.  They draw attention away from the arms and focus it on the face.  (Short sleeves are acceptable for infants and small children).
• Coordinate your attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and stockings, as our photographer may portray you in a full length pose.
• Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size.
• Necklines are important.  A vee or scoop neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full.  A turtle neck or high neck garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.
• Dress everyone in the same style of clothing.  Do not mix casual and formal attire.
• Keep the tonal range of clothing within the group the same.  Do not mix light and dark values.  Save patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.
• White or light pastel clothing, shoes, stockings, pants, or dresses look best in portraits taken against a white or light background.  Save stronger colors and patterns for accent items.
• To assure a successful portrait, it is best to bring along several additional clothing choices.

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