
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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