Hi Valued Costumers!

We here at SuStudios would like to give you some tips and tricks on how to have a successful photoshoot! In this series we will focus on how to schedule the PERFECT Date and Time. To start this off, we want to say that WE’RE NATURAL LIGHT SPECIALISTS. What that means is that we believe that natural light, from the sun and its reflections, creates photographs that feel fresh, timeless and truest to you.

We begin all portrait sessions two hours before the scheduled sunset during “the golden hour,” when the light is the dreamiest and everything is golden. To determine when golden hour is use a sunset calculator online to determine the scheduled sunset for the date and location you’d like to do your session. Then, just subtract x-amount of hours to figure out the start time of your session. Remember, the sun sets much earlier during the colder months of the year and much later during the warmer months, so make sure to factor that in when choosing your portrait session date. 

If you’re planning on taking off work or have evening plans afterward make sure to plan a buffer of time when getting ready so you can arrive a few minutes early to your session and be ready to start on time. We’re only able to shoot when natural light is still in the sky, so we’ll want to take advantage of every minute we have together before the sun goes down.

THE ART OF PICKING WHAT TO WEAR WHEN APPEARING ON CAMERA

The feeling of now knowing what to wear when appearing on camera can be an overwhelming experience. Additionally, not knowing what colors and clothing appropriate to wear in video can add further anxiety. This is why a question such as ‘ What color clothing is suitable to wear when being filmed ‘ is a common one.

Before you get started make sure you wear clothing that is consistent with your branding. The clothing you choose should also make you feel good about yourself.  You will also want to consider wearing something that accurately represents your style. If you have an upcoming date booked with a camera, below are some tips which will help you look your best. This advice is great for general interviews and testimonials.

As a general rule, solid and rich colors look best on video and film. Try and avoid wearing bright white clothing which can dominate the screen. A safer color to wear would be a not-quite-white colors like light beige and light grey. Also, very pale colors may work better. Try and choose colors that compliment your skin tone and wear colors that make you feel comfortable and confident.
 

When it comes to selecting your on-camera wardrobe you should avoid clothing that has a lot of patterns. Try staying away from clothing that has stripes, plaids and floral patterns. Some video cameras will have a difficult time processing patterns which can affect image quality. While modern cameras are better equipped at handling patterns it is better to stay on the safe side.

TRY AND AVOID LOGOS

Unless you are trying to promote another brand avoid wearing clothing that has a logo written all over it.  Your brand matters so consider wearing something the brings out your personality.

FINAL WORDS

Remember that content is king, but dress for video should never be overlooked. The color of the wardrobe may appear as a minor item, but it does add a lot of value to the video production. Hopefully, this article would have given you some good tips on what to wear on camera.

Has this happened to you?

Family photo sessions are such a key way to preserve memories of your family that you don't want it to be a stressful time. Here are our best practices for a stress-free family portrait session.

Tip #1: Plan 

Schedule your photo session at a time that is good for everyone (including working around nap times, if necessary). Have everyone clear their schedules so there is plenty of time before and after your photography appointment. Hurrying to your photo session because your afraid of being late or rushing things because you have to be somewhere else next, won't result in great images or a pleasant experience. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your session time. This will allow for enough time in case there's unexpected traffic, necessary bathroom breaks, or a time to merely get familiar with the location of your session. 

Tip #2: Wardrobe is Key

In addition to planning your time, you'll also want to let everyone know what to expect at the photo session, notably, what everyone should wear. We highly recommend you coordinate in general, but don’t be matchy matchy. If it helps, choose three different colors as a swatch on which you can base all your outfits. Comfortable yet elegant is best! So feel free to show your personality. No families really go out wearing matching blue jeans and white shirts, do they!? Be yourselves. We also suggest avoiding solid white clothing (but some white -- e.g. under another garment, accessories -- is OK). Too much solid black may blend into shadows. Remember, all things are OK in moderation. Rich solid colors and textured clothing work great! (Accessories like scarves, hats, fringe, knitted items are great, too.) We always tell our clients, "It’s up to you, but just so you know -- most people who choose big bold patterns, graphic t-shirts, sweat pants, or flip-flops live to regret it". 

The best way to coordinate with the shooting location is simply to present the best version of yourself.

Tip #3: Have a "Plan B"

If you know your preschooler or a baby is prone to spit-up or drool, you may want to consider bringing an outfit change or two just in case. It also wouldn't hurt to bring snacks, safety pins, something to bribe the spouse and kids (don't worry, we won't judge). Lastly, depending on the location of your session, there may not be access to bathrooms, therefore, it may be a good idea to plan a bathroom break before arriving at your session especially if you have little ones. 

Tip #4: Pictures on an Empty Stomach... Not Fun!

We all know our families are no fun when they're Hangry. Make sure you either bring some snacks or that you've confirmed with your photographer if snacks will be available at the session. We always make a point of having water and snacks at our family sessions.

Tip #5: Make it Quick and Painless

Although it would be great if all our families could sit still for a 2-hour photography session with multiple outfit changes and poses, however, the reality is most kids and spouses come to their portrait session wanting it to be over as quickly as possible. For that reason, you may want to consider booking your session with a photography team (2 photographers vs. 1 photographer) that can typically shoot a variety of images in a much more shorter amount of time.

Our customers love our 20-minute Mini Sessions as the time is short enough to convince the spouse and kids, and since we are a husband and wife team, we typically show 50-70 high-quality images that capture a wide range of moments our customers cherish.   

Your family portrait session should be fun and memorable, not stressful. Let us help you schedule it!

Contact us to schedule your consultation!

Let's Talk About Your Family Session Today!