A good looking portrait begins with good preparation. The selection of proper clothing is a critical factor. If the clothing is foremost, it will draw attention away from the face. Clothing that does not attract attention is the ultimate goal. It could be the difference between a very successful portrait and just another picture. We can not stress enough how important it is for you to observe the following criteria:
When you are finished choosing your wardrobe, lay out all your clothing – shoes, socks, everything should be included! Then, take a careful look at the selection. If you find your eyes are drawn to any one item in particular, you can be certain that the same thing will happen in a photograph. That item should be changed.

Here are some other helpful suggestions for a great portrait!:

SIMPLICITY – Clothing should be plain and simple. Solids are best – no patterns, stripes, bold designs or anything that will draw attention away from your face.
TIMELESSNESS – Classical styles that will stay in fashion year after year are recommended. Khakis and jeans; polo and turtle necks never seem to go out of style. Trendy clothing will tend to outdate your portrait. But if a contemporary look is your looking for, we will certainly accommodate you.
FOCAL POINT – The focal point is where your eye travels first and where your attention is held. The brightest or darkest point in your portrait is usually the focal point. Simplify by having one main focal point – YOU!
COLOR – If getting a group portrait try to keep consistent with other people in your group. Use the same color or at least the same tone. Clothing below your waistline should be darker than above. Light jeans worn below a darker top could easily attract attention to the lower part of your body and away from your face. White shirts and/or blouses under a dark jacket are perfect. Colors should be dark and not bright. This is so important! Bright colors will attract attention away from your face. Prints or any kind of pattern, no matter how small, may become a distraction. If a necktie is to be worn it should have minimal pattern.
HAIR STYLE and MAKEUP – Hairstyles should be simple and should be off the face. Hair falling down onto the sides of your face can cause a distracting shadow. Eye makeup should be blended. Too much color will attract attention to your make-up and away from your eyes.
JEWELRY – For individual portraits (close up), wear a short, gold or silver necklace, or pearls (collar bone length); for earrings, simple loops or pearls are recommended. For family portraits, type of jewelry is not as important, but the same guidelines are still recommended.
CLASSICAL PORTRAITS – Wear solid colors or subtle patterns – they are submissive and noncompetitive. Deep rich tones such as navy, burgundy, black, or charcoal with subtle accents of jewelry, ties, etc.
OUTDOOR PORTRAITS – Wear earth tones, solid colors such as dark navy, green or maroon or very subtle patterns. For a casual look, denim looks great, or dark cotton slacks and shirt with the same tonal value. Avoid white and black clothing, unless you are working with a pre-planned theme. Avoid white shoes and socks. Long sleeves are recommended.
FAMILY PORTRAITS – For studio portraits, we usually recommend medium to deep tones. Match other people in the group. Long sleeves, dark slacks, dark skirts, dark shoes, and darker stockings are usually best. For casual portraits, use the “Outdoor Portrait” guidelines. Having a theme or at least dressing similar to others in the group is best.

CHILD PORTRAITS - Kids love to move around.  Don't dress children in unconfortable clothes.  They will be much more relaxed and happy wearing clothing that fits and doesn't "HURT!"  Like all other portraits try to stick with clasic styles, avoid logos, and keep to solid colors or at least very mild, non-distracting prints.
HIGH KEY PORTRAITS – All White/Light Portraits. Wear white, off-white, or pastel colors.

 

SENIOR PORTRAITS – Studious? Fun-loving? Classic? Be creative and have fun with your Senior Portrait Session. Have several changes of clothes and express who you are. A sports jacket, uniform, hobbies, pets – bring whatever is "you." Be sure to stay away from logo or printed clothing. These items look outdated very quickly.

GIRLS – Wear sweaters, blouses or dresses that have sleeves and a flattering neckline. Darker, autumn colors flatter your skin tones well and attract the viewer to your face. The exception to this is high-key (white background) portraits. Then, clothing and accessories can be all white or all black to place emphasis on your skin tone.
GUYS – For your head and shoulders poses we recommend you wear a sweater, sport shirt, or dress shirt and tie (we would be happy to tie it for you in a double-Windsor knot) with a suit or sports coat. Be sure the neck of the shirt fits perfectly and is not frayed. Schedule a haircut a few days prior to your session to allow your hair to return to a more natural look.