Most people arrive at a portrait session a little nervous. That is completely normal and it usually passes within the first ten minutes. But there are a few practical things you can think about beforehand that make the session go more smoothly, and we have written them down here.

Clothing: the honest advice

Solid colors work better than busy patterns in natural light. Not because patterns are wrong, but because a strong pattern draws the eye away from the face, which is usually what you want the portrait to be about. Neutral tones. Grey, navy, cream, olive. Tend to age well in photographs. Avoid very bright white if you are shooting in direct sunlight, as it can blow out easily. Beyond that: wear what you actually wear. A portrait in clothes you feel comfortable in will always look better than one in clothes you borrowed for the occasion.

Timing and arriving

We ask people to arrive about five minutes before the session start time, not earlier. The studio is small and if we are finishing a previous session we need that time. When you arrive, there will be water or tea and a few minutes to settle before we start. We do not begin shooting the moment you walk in. If you are running late, send a message. We would rather know than wonder.

Bringing children

Children are fine in the studio. The main thing to know is that we do not try to make children sit still and smile. We photograph them as they are, which usually means some movement, some distraction, and occasionally some tears. The images that come from those moments are often the most honest. Bring a snack and a small toy if your child is under four. We have a low shelf with a few picture books that usually helps.

What happens after the session

We edit and deliver your gallery within ten days via a private Pixieset link. You will receive an email with the link and a password. From there you can download full-resolution files and, if you have ordered prints, approve the final images before we print. We will ask you to confirm your selections within two weeks of receiving the gallery, after which we begin printing.

If something does not feel right

Tell us. During the session, if you are uncomfortable with a pose or a direction, say so. We would rather adjust than have you leave with images you do not like. After the session, if you receive your gallery and something is not what you expected, get in touch before the two-week selection window closes. We can usually find a solution.

The best sessions are the ones where the subject forgets they are being photographed. That takes a few minutes to happen, and it cannot be forced. Our job is to make the room calm enough that it does.