If you are like me, you may have nibbled on a few too many chocolate treats last weekend and in the days leading up to Easter. The only thing that makes this overindulgence worse is the knowledge of an upcoming photo shoot and the insecurities that may come with it.
However, don’t despair! There is no need to reschedule.
Many of us do not like how we look on camera, but are you only judging yourself based on quick snapshots and forced poses? There are many ways to ensure your photo shoot results in the best family portraits. Here are four tips I have picked up through my years of experience with professional photography in Brisbane.
- Choose Slimming Outfits
I want you to feel completely comfortable and happy during your session, even if you think you picked up a few pounds during the holiday season. If you dress in a comfortable yet slimming way, you will feel more confident and have a much better time during the shoot. Although you might think that wearing baggy clothes could give you something to hide behind, they will often make you look larger than you actually are. Patterns can be similarly misleading, and may be more of a distraction for the camera.
Instead, opt for a close-fitting dress or blouse that highlights your natural curves without making you feel as though you are being put on display. Basic black is always a good option, and it is easy to coordinate with other people’s outfits. Another idea is wearing a mid toned button-down shirt, perhaps with a pop a colour like a scarf, to add visual interest and keep the eye moving. The button down shirts don’t cling to tummies.
- Consider Your Posing Options
There are many different poses that can help elongate your figure and create a slimming effect. There is no need to worry about any of this as I will be there to help get you totally relaxed and looking natural so you will look fantastic.. It’s best not to think about it too much or you will be uncomfortable and un-natural.
I will make sure we hide anything you may want to hide and accentuate your best features, and that is your relaxed happy genuine smile. I will usually pose you behind someone else or while holding one of your children or even the family pet. Leaning forward helps your arms and neck look great and if you think about how much you love your kids and family, that will complete the atmosphere.
My experience with professional photography in Brisbane means that I will be there to help guide into poses that feel comfortable and look great, so do not stress about this beforehand.
We will take a moment to shake everything out and try to find your best natural posture. Relaxing your shoulders and getting you to breath helps.
Short Versus Long Lenses
Most of the photo’s you don’t like have been taken on a smart phone. These use very wide angles lenses which have the horrible effect of making everything appear larger and rounder. Just what we don’t need. Top that up with someone that takes forever to click and by the time they do, everyone is feeling awkward and you thats it! You have the formula for terrible photo’s.
A professional will use long lenses to capture you at your best. Quickly and in a fun and relaxed way, in the right light that makes your eyes glitter and your face glow. I promise you will be surprised at how good you will look after a professional takes your portraits.
- Retouching
Professional photography in Brisbane often includes retouching services. Retouching allows you to relax on set and not worry about what the camera sees. We have an affordable professional retouching service if you want to look younger, thinner and taller etc… They can adjust heavy wrinkles, minor blemishes, skin discolouration, scaring, wounds and more. I have helped people with Bells Palsy get portraits they adore by sending their portraits away for retouching.
However, most of the magic happens with the correct lighting and lens choice, which can make everyone look better! So rest assured that you will look completely natural and radiant.
Contact me today to book a session or discuss your insecurities or uncertainties, I will help you look and feel confident.
Besides, the best family portraits are all about capturing smiles and relationships, not how many chocolate Easter bunnies you recently ate! I hope to hear from you soon.
Talk soon,
Margherita :)
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