Kansas City Photographer Selma Dakota

Tips for a great session

Lights, Camera, Action!

1.Bring a comb, brush and damp washcloth to tame fly-away strands of hair.
2.For toddlers, bring a dry snack, something that will not soil their clothes.
3.Arrive a few minutes early.  Don't let last minute traffic and delays create stress for this important event!
Let the photographer interact with your child to make him/her more comfortable.
If your child cries, don't worry they usually stop the within moments!
Most importantly, have fun!  A professional portrait is meant to capture the moment, not force it!

Children's Portraits... Let their personalities shine through! Personalize their portraits by bringing a special prop, uniform, costume or favorite toy.
Infants should be well rested and fed prior to your appointment.
Young toddlers are the trickiest to prepare.  They quickly pick up on stress and may become nervous, so keep it fun and don't rehearse the sitting.  Arrive early and let us get to know your child.
Keep hairstyles and make-up (adults only!) simple.  Barretts and ribbons should be small.  Hair should be neatly trimmed no later than 48 hours prior to your appointment.

Family Portraits... Keep it fun!  Remember, children will quickly pick up on stress!
Avoid the last minute rush by preparing your clothing early.
While family portraits are very special, don't forget to take this opportunity to have a portrait taken of you and your spouse together.

Wardrobe Ideas and Color Coordination Simplicity is the key when it comes to planning a portrait.  Solid colors are best.  Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors.  They draw attention away from the face.
Long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommended.  They draw attention away from the arms and focus on the face.  (Short sleeves are acceptable for infants and small children.
 
Coordinate your child's attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and socks or stockings, as we may do a full length pose.
Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size.
Necklines are important.  A scoop or v-neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full.  A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.
 
Dress everyone in the same style clothing.  Do not mix casual and formal attire.
Do not mix light and dark colors.  Save stronger colors and patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.
White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light colored background.  Dark clothing looks best photographed against darker backgrounds and creates a more formal mood.
We will help you to select the backgrounds most suitable to your needs.  To personalize your portraits, we encourage you to bring your own props or a favorite toy to the session as well. 


 

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