Portrait Tips

Benefit from our years of experience in creating great portraits.

See what others are doing, view our portrait gallery.

Clothing & Accessories

  • Make sure all of your clothing is clean and wrinkle-free, including uniforms or gowns.
  • Solid colours or simple patterns work better with portrait backgrounds.
  • Medium to dark shades create a timeless look.
  • Soft shades enhance lighter backgrounds.
  • Avoid shirts with slogans, as photo cropping can cut words in half.
  • Long-sleeved shirts are best, since short sleeves can be distracting and sleeveless tops can look too casual.
  • Avoid large accessories that may detract from your face. Keep the focus on you with small accessories, such as simple earrings, pins and necklaces.
  • Make sure your shoes and socks match your outfit, as they may show in some poses.
  • Feel free to wear glasses. Our photographers are trained to adjust lights and respectfully pose you to minimize glass glare.

Grooming Tips

  • Avoid getting a new hairstyle or cut right before your session. Instead, select a comfortable style you know looks good.
  • Limit exposure to the sun a few days before picture day.
  • For older guys, be sure to shave the night before, and then let our retouching service do the rest.
  • For older girls, bring concealer to help hide blemishes, and then stop worrying!  Our retouching service can work wonders.
  • Making sure nails are trimmed and clean as hands may show in portrait. Older girls may want to do their nails. Clear or neutral colours work best.

Posing Tips

  • Relax and smile at the camera as though it's your best friend.
  • Be yourself and have fun.

Picture Day Checklist

  • Check your hair and shirt collar at camera time.
  • Practice your smile.
  • Remember good posture.
  • Wear your best colours.