When more than one person is to appear in the portrait, or when a special stylistic effect is desired, clothing and prop choices can make or break a portrait.   Memorable portraits take careful planning, and the clothing you choose is very important to your portrait's success.

These guidelines will help you make important decisions about the clothing and style of your artwork.

Clothing for small groups
Couples or small groups should choose simple garments with in the same tonal ranges.  

When subjects appear in a mixture of light and dark tones together, there is a visual confusion-as the light color comes forward, and the dark color recedes.   When this happens, one person becomes dominant and appears heavier than in reality.


Clothing for a family
In a family group, proper clothing coordination
is critical.  

When decorating a home, a major concern is to coordinate the colors and tones of the walls, carpets, drapes, and furniture.  

Similar coordination is necessary when selecting clothing for a group portrait.  Choose clothing in the same tonal ranges so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as compared to the rest of the group.

Proper clothing selection makes the difference between a portrait that appears to be a group of seemingly unrelated individuals and one which every member of the family "belongs" to the group.


Clothing for children
Your clothing selection for the child is really very simple.   How do you want to remember this moment in time...say 20 years from now?

Choose clothing and props that show the child's personality and best reflect the family's lifestyle.   Solid colors are always a good choice. When in doubt, always bring more than you feel you need.

The photographer will be glad to help you make the decision.


Clothing for seniors
Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait, with all other elements being secondary.   For your more traditional photographs, dress in something very simple both in color and style.

Boys can choose a suit, sport coat or sweater. For girls, a plain dress, sweater or blouse with a simple neckline is best.   Both boys and girls should wear long sleeves to keep the eye from being drawn to the flesh or the arms.   For your outdoor session, bring a casual outfit that will blend with natural outdoor settings.   Earth tones are an excellent choice.

Also remember that simple styles photograph best.