Deborah Marko Photography

Preparation Recommendations: 

Each portrait session includes styling, through  consultation. 

Formal Portraiture

One may dress as if going to a fine restaurant.

Men

Short sleeves are fine; long sleeves are more flattering. Men always look fabulous in a tuxedo, or a dark suit. If planning on wearing a tie, the addition of a suit jacket is a nice presentation. If you choose not to wear a tie, a dark jacket with an open shirt collar or a turtleneck are good choices. Generally one would not wear a polo shirt with a jacket in a formal portrait.

Women

Formal gowns or dresses are a nice choice. If you have beautiful skin; clothing to highlight it is often very becoming. Preferably dresses should be worn below the knee. Long pants; are a nice choice.  A scarf for a splash of color is often lovely.

Please consider:

Avoiding busy patterns, stripes, mixing dark and light clothing and clothing that includes logos or pictures is recommended.

Casual Portraiture

The Dark Pallet

Long sleeves, black tops, and jeans generally work well.  And of course, dark colors can be very flattering,  making one look slimmer.
If considering dark colors, black, royal blue, burgundy, hunter green are optimal choices.

The Light Pallet

Khakis and a white shirt always work seamlessly with a light background, i.e. the beach.

When selecting an outfit for a family portrait, it is best to think of how it will coordinate with the clothing of other family members. Even if your favorite color is green, it may not photograph well next to a pale pink dress, or a family members black and white sweater.

The Family Portrait Color Scheme

A better way to manage the color palate for a family portrait is to choose a color scheme, and keep it consistent with each outfit, for each family member. Black on black always looks classic, elegant and timeless.

Grooming

Chipped nails will show in a photograph, inclusive of toes. A manicure is recommended for each person being photographed.  Should toes be showing, a pedicure is recommended. Hand cream is recommended for dry skin.

Make Up

Eye shadow should be applied lightly and carefully; the eyes often help to highlight the personality. It is recommended that one wear makeup as one normally would, including powder to manage shine,  with the addition of two coats of mascara on both upper and lower eyelashes. Please bring your makeup with you, in case additional modifications are required.

Hair

If planning a hair cut; it is recommended it be cut, the week before your scheduled session. Hair should not cover up the eyes; one might consider a hair clip if necessary. Again bangs should be short enough so the eyes may be scene. Of course, the eyes are the window to the soul.

Hair and makeup artists are available. (The fee being paid directly to the artist.)

Additional Preparation Reminders   

Be sure to allow enough time for everyone to shower.

Men should shave an hour earlier than the scheduled session time.

Clothing and accoutrement should be laid out, and ready the night before the session, to save on time and stress. The more you enjoy your experience, the better you will look in your portrait.

It is recommended to plan on arriving at the studio or location a little early, if you are bringing young children, or wearing formal clothing.

Props

Props are recommended if they are an integral part of your lifestyle.

    Musical instruments
    Leather jackets
    Pets, which must be scheduled with advance notice.
    A favorite teddy bear

Please do contact the studio with any additional questions or concerns at:

deborah.marko@yahoo.com
203.449.4951

Gift Certificates Available