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Head & Shoulders Poses

Dress in something very simple in both color and style. Boys can choose a suit, sport coat, shirt, or sweater. Girls can wear a plain dress, sweater, or blouse. Choose a simple neckline, staying away from deep V–necks or high cowl necks. Both boys and girls should wear long sleeves.

Choose clothing color carefully. Colors that photograph best are medium to dark shades of green, brown, rust, wine, or blue. Bright colors and pastels do not photograph well against dark backgrounds—they drain color from your face. Colors to avoid are reds, yellows, oranges, pinks, beige or white. Black is usually too harsh a contrast to skin color. Plaids, stripes, and loud patterns also do not photograph well in a head & shoulders portrait.

Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait. All other elements should be secondary.

Bold stripes, plaids, checks, and prints are confusing and do not photograph well.

Especially bright colors, such as red and orange, will completely overpower the face and ruin a portrait.

Light-colored clothing calls attention to itself and away from the face. Avoid light colors that approximate flesh tones such as beige, tan, peach, pink, white, and yellow. Darker shades are more flattering and slimming.

Bare shoulders or tops with "spaghetti straps" often make the subject look heavier and take the eye away from the face.

Informal Studio Poses

Wear something that expresses your personality. Girls could choose a favorite sports outfit, dress, prom dress, shorts, jeans outfit—whatever. Guys can be photographed three-quarter length in a suit or choose an informal outfit such as jeans, a casual or sports outfit, or a school or other jacket. Seniors who like our "white–on–white" portraits should bring a white or very pale pastel outfit.

If you have a hobby, then bring it along! Musical instruments, art supplies, theatrical garb, cheerleading or athletic uniforms, band uniforms, stuffed animals, skateboards, pets, girlfriends, boyfriends, and buddies. Think creatively and youšll have a portrait to remember!

Outdoor Poses

Bring a casual outfit that will blend with the natural outdoor setting. If you have an outdoor hobby or interest — backpacking or jogging for example — bring your gear. We'll also be happy to photograph you with your car, bike, or motorcycle.