Need portrait guidelines and preparations

[JohnT]

I'm going to be shooting some outdoor portraits of a couple in two weeks. I need some guidelines to send them regarding clothing and preparations. Does anyone have anything to share? A link to a page would be fine (had something at one time but lost it).

[movingex]

Originally Posted by JohnT

I'm going to be shooting some outdoor portraits of a couple in two weeks. I need some guidelines to send them regarding clothing and preparations. Does anyone have anything to share? A link to a page would be fine (had something at one time but lost it).

google portrait photographer and just look through some sites, you should be able to find what you are looking for, or at least some examples.

[JohnT]

Did that first. Just thought someone here might have something a little more "put together."

[Debbi]

Nothing "put together" but solid colors work best, especially for possible B&W conversions. Obviously, nothing that clashes. I think denim works good with any solid color - and makes it pretty easy for the "subjects". My favorite has always been denim and white (provided it's not high noon - unless you are in open shade).

[JohnT]

Thanks, Debbi.

[LadyShutterBug]

think about what your background will be. if it is trees and greenery, encourage them not to wear navy or dark greens. it won't work well with the bacckdrop.

if you are photographing in an outdoor locale with lots of blooming florals, pink azaleas for example, tell them to keep that in mind in choosing clothes. a bright pink top is obviously goign to blend too much.

i generally tell them to choose clothes that don't "match" but don't clash; don't stand out too much. i tell them get dressed, stand next to one another in a mirror. if something jumps out at you (one shirt lots brighter than the other, etc.)... it'll jump out at you in the pictures too.

also, for the most part, the less jewelry the better (normal daywear jewelry like watches). if it's somethign they chose for the outfit then fine, or important jewelry like wedding rings, and aggie ring, etc.... but lots of jewelry can take away from the subjects.

heavier makeup than usual for the ladies.

[JohnT]

Thanks, Kasey. I ordered a portrait book this morning, along with a couple of other items, to help me get a handle on this. I appreciate your input.

[kelley_french]

I just googled portrait photography tips and it came up with a lot of choices.