Lance Fairchild Photography

Portrait Tips......

Creating a perfect portrait takes a little planning. Fine portraiture captures facial expressions and mood, while clothing, accessories & props are secondary and shouldn't create any distractions. Careful selection of these will avoid dating your portraits.

This child is lost
among the colorful
clothes and toys.

A white background will show off skin tones best when white, ivory or pastels are worn. Be sure to select props that match clothing color. While the colorful pose is a great secondary portrait for a child's playroom, it may not be suitable for a "timeless" quality portrait.

This is a "timeless" Portrait. Clothing and props were well chosen.

More Tips.......

With only two subjects in the portrait, it is especially important to dress in the
same colors(s) to capture their relationship. With business attire, a pure white
shirt or blouse with a dark suit jacket will emphasize your neck rather than your face. Pastel, thin striped or soft patterned shirt with subtle tie is preferable.

A light suit commands attention and can add weight against a dark background

"Excellent coordination.
Expressions hold your eyes"

You may want to bring extra clothing and accessories "just in case" and we will help you decide if something else would coordinate better.

"The busy pattern
in this blouse
is distracting."

General Fashion Tips......

"Avoid bold patterns
and colors.

Light areas in this
sweater 'jump out'
drawing attention
away from his face"

"The solid blue sweater
is more subtle and coordinates well with his choice of background."

A. Skirts should cover knees.

B. Hair should not block eyes.

C. Shoes and socks should be in key.

D. Avoid busy patterns and bright colors.

E. Teens and adults should wear long sleeves to cover elbows.

F. Light colors are best with light backgrounds and fair complexions.

G. White, ivory, khaki or light pastels are best with a white background.

H. Avoid wearing yellow or green as they can adversely affect skin color.

.I. Darker colors look better with deep backgrounds and dark hair or complexions.

"A busy background
and busy
clothes result
in hard to find faces"

"Simplicity
of two colors
help separate subjects from
the scenery."

As a background, the outdoors is very busy. Avoid green colors, as they clash with mother nature. It is important to choose only one or two theme colors, with you wearing shades of those colors. While light blues are excellent all year, white, ivory, khaki and salmon are great against lush green foliage. Burgundy, brown, tan and gray are also nice late in the season.