Prep like a Pro

Know What Works

One of the biggest factors in making a great photograph is the color pallet. It is very important to consider the subject, foreground and background when coordinating outfits and accessories.

The above color wheel is a VERY simplistic suggestion of how colors can work best together and you might consider using it when planning your time in front of the camera.

An example of how this can work: Most redheads look really great in green. Blue eyes go great with reds, oranges and yellows.

Click the link below to go to adobe’s interactive color info page for more detailed ideas.

Hair & Makeup + H2O

This is a very personal topic, but basic techniques can be applied for most every photo shoot. It is important to think of the differences between going out for the evening or prepping for a photo. The motion of daily life keeps the eyes busy and rarely can we focus on the particular elements of how someone looks. A photograph, however, is a frozen moment, so its important (and also easy) to get it right!

Just as color choices are important for outfits, backgrounds and props, none can be as critically important as makeup and hair. We have all seen it done poorly - it stands out to a near garish level of OMG! Conversely, tasteful choices and application bring focus to the person.

“Gosh, would you look at her makeup…” 😱

vs

“Gosh, look how attractive she is!” 👸🏼

It’s your choice, but we usually suggest the latter.

Typically, for modern, high resolution professional cameras taking traditional portraits, less is in fact best. A lot of makeup can create unwanted results, while a little really does go a long way. We can always build up if needed, but it’s difficult to remove easily. This theory is entirely optional and goes right out the window if you are wanting dramatic, or unique looks.

We can provide you with hair and make up artists if you would like an extra professional touch. They can also be on hand to make sure the hair is cooperating, the poses are spot on, and makeup is spiffed up if needed.

Be sure to bring your favorite products, applicators and brushes to the shoot so things can be touched up as we go. Many models make a check list to use before leaving home to make sure everything needed is in their bag.

It is nearly impossible for make up artists to have everything appropriate to each individual. This is especially true if there is more than one person in the shoot, or a wide variety of people are wanting photos. Bringing your own supplies insures a perfect setup to begin with and the artists can build from there if you so desire.

Lastly, bring plenty of fresh water and maybe a snack. A hungry model is one the scariest things in nature, so having a couple of your favorite things to nibble on will make the shoot all the more comfortable for both of us. If the shoot is a higher end production, we will often have a caterer, however there is never a substitute for having a few of your favorite things with you.

If you would like more info on this, please contact us below:

Pinspiration

If you are wanting something a bit different, it can often be helpful to summons a little inspiration from the pros. There’s no better resource than Pinterest!

It can be a lot of fun searching for ideas for your shoot - everything from locations, outfits / costumes, hair styles and props can be found in seconds. Picking amongst all the ideas is what can take a while.

We are delighted to work with you as well! After many themed shoots, we are happy to make suggestions and help you put together EXACTLY what you want as a final image.

Here is a quick link to Pinterest.com so you can get started right away!

Have FUN!