Portrait Session

Your portrait session will normally last 40-50 minutes. During this time we’ll work through a number of different sittings and capture a variety of different images. There is no limit to the number of photographs taken and no extra charge applies if your session overruns.

We only run 2-3 sessions per day at the studio to ensure maximum time flexibility. This ensures you are never rushed. The studio is fully climate controlled which ensures an optimum temperature is maintained – this is particularly important for young children and babies.

Viewing Session

Within a couple of days of your portrait session we’ll arrange a viewing appointment where you select your favourite images from our flat screen monitor. From this you can select as many images as you would like for printing and framing. You can also opt to buy digital images. Please allow at least half an hour for a viewing session.

Changing Facilities

There are full changing facilities in our studios in Blackrock to allow you to change outfits during the course of your portrait session.

Preparation Information

Clothing

There are no absolute rules for what you should wear but the following guidelines should help:

• Keep things simple in terms of colours and pattern – avoid multi coloured or heavily patterned clothes which can distract the eye from the finished image.
• For more formal portraits consider a plain shirt or garments with a collar.
• For relaxed ‘contemporary’ portraiture a simple white or dark t-shirt is ideal.
• Please bring a couple of changes of clothes to try different looks.
• Longer sleeves tend to be more flattering on adults (Shirts, Blouses).
• Try to wear ‘classic’ designs (plain shirts, t-shirts etc.) as more fashionable garments may date quickly.

Make-up

• Normal make-up is fine, keep it simple and avoid putting on extra make-up for the session.
• we suggest that you bring some make-up with you to ‘touch up’ during the session.
• We can arrange a professional make-up artist for an additional cost.

Hair

• Your normal hairstyle is fine, it makes sense to have your haircut before a session but it is important to wait at least a week before your portrait session as it normally takes a few days for hair to settle down after a cut.
• Importantly please remember to bring a hairbrush!!

Specific advice for younger children

• Avoid giving advance warning to your child. From experience, younger children may get very excited or alternatively very apprehensive.
• Please try to book an appointment at a time of day when your child is alert and full of energy as this will ensure the best results.
• If your child has a favourite toy please feel free to bring it along.
• Please note all children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Specific advice for babies and newborns

• Time of day is important when planning a session for your baby – pick a time just after a nap when energy levels are good.
• Please avoid sessions within a few days of inoculations as your baby is probably not in the best form and skin can be affected.
• If your baby has a favourite toy please feel free to bring it along.

If your newborn baby or child is not in good form on the day of your appointment please call and cancel the session and a new time can be arranged. It’s important that your child is in good form to get the best results.