Tips For Better Photos

Jenny Merry is committed to producing the highest quality portraits that will capture your essence and emotion. The goal of any fine portrait is to direct the viewer's attention to the face or faces in the portrait. Following are a few hints to make your time in front of the camera a success:

Proper clothing allows the face to dominate the portrait. All other elements should be secondary. Very simple garments always photograph best. Choose solid-color clothing with a simple neckline and dark, warm colors. Nature's colors are always in fashion at any season. For casual, outdoor portraits, try to avoid white as it tends to drain color from the face. We also recommend that you dress form the shoes up, as many poses are full length. White socks and shoes will shine in a photograph like a beacon. Bold stripes, plaids, checks and prints are confusing and do not photograph well. Extremely bright colors, such as hot pink, orange and some reds, can overpower the face and create a less than perfect portrait. Light-colored clothing calls attention to itself, and away from the face.
Turtlenecks or V-necks are flattering provided that neither is exaggerated in style. Avoid very wide or deeply cut garments as well as bulky cowl neck sweaters that completely hide the neck. Avoid high buttoned collars and keep jewelry to a minimum.

For men, when wearing a tie, a jacket is a must. However, for a more casual look, a neat, open-collared shirt can look great. Letter jackets also look great in portraits.
Long sleeves are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.

Hair should be well-groomed and neat. If possible, a trim a few days before your portrait is a good idea. For ladies, make-up for daytime works, but make sure your lipstick is fresh and watch for smudges and shiny faces.
Don't worry about break-outs or braces. Both can be easily removed in reprints.
Glasses glare can be tricky, especially with shiny metal frames. If you are willing to leave them off for your portrait, great! If not we will do our best to reduce the glare. Photogray glasses will never work, don't wear them for portraits.

Finally, worried about a forced looking smile? Use this trick: don't clench your jaw. A slightly open mouth, and gently raised eyebrows create a natural, winning smile!