Expert Guide

Prepare for Your Fine Art Portrait Session

Expert tips from Motif Fine Portraits on creating timeless family portraits. Learn what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect.

Reading Time 8 minutes
Expertise Level All Levels
Source Motif Fine Portraits
Family portrait session

1-2 Weeks Before

Day Before

Day Of

A fine art portrait session is an exciting opportunity to create a timeless work of art that will be cherished for generations. To ensure that your portrait is everything you've dreamed of, it's important to prepare in advance. Here are expert tips from the team at Motif Fine Portraits, Toronto's premier fine art portrait studio.

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One to Two Weeks Before Your Session

1

Finalize Your Outfits

What you wear is one of the most important elements of your portrait. Your clothing should be a reflection of your family's style, but it should also be timeless and classic. The team at Motif Fine Portraits recommends choosing a color palette of 2-3 complementary colors and then building your outfits around that.

Pro Tips

  • Choose 2-3 complementary colors
  • Opt for solid colors and classic silhouettes
  • Coordinate without being too matchy-matchy
  • Consider formal vs. casual based on desired aesthetic

What to Avoid

  • Busy patterns
  • Logos and brand names
  • Cartoon characters
  • Neon or overly bright colors
  • Clothing that doesn't fit well
Formal Look

Men: Suit, dress shirt, tie
Women: Gown, elegant dress

Casual Look

Men: Button-down, trousers or dark jeans
Women: Simple dress, blouse and skirt

2

Schedule Haircuts and Beauty Appointments

If you're planning on getting a haircut or color, be sure to schedule your appointment at least a week before your session. This will give your hair time to settle and look its best. The same goes for any other beauty appointments, such as manicures, pedicures, and facials.

Pro Tips

  • Schedule haircuts 1 week before (not day of)
  • Allow hair color to settle
  • Book manicures/pedicures in advance
  • Consider facials for glowing skin
  • Avoid trying new beauty treatments right before session
Haircuts

7-10 days before session

Hair Color

1-2 weeks before session

Manicures

1-2 days before session

Facials

3-5 days before session

3

Talk to Your Family

It's important to talk to your family about the portrait session in advance, especially if you have young children. Explain to them what to expect and get them excited about the experience. You can show them pictures from the photographer's portfolio and tell them that they're going to be a part of creating a beautiful work of art for your family.

Pro Tips

  • Explain the process to children in advance
  • Show portfolio examples to build excitement
  • Frame it as creating family art together
  • Address any concerns or fears
  • Make it sound fun and special
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The Day Before Your Session

1

Get a Good Night's Sleep

This may seem obvious, but it's one of the most important things you can do to prepare for your portrait session. When you're well-rested, you'll look and feel your best. This is especially important for children, who can become cranky and uncooperative when they're tired.

Benefits of Good Sleep

  • Reduced under-eye circles
  • Better mood and energy
  • More natural smiles
  • Cooperative children
  • Overall better appearance
2

Pack Your Bag

Pack a bag with everything you'll need for the session, including your outfits, shoes, accessories, and any props you want to include in your portrait. It's also a good idea to bring snacks and drinks for your children, as well as a few of their favorite toys or books to keep them entertained.

Packing Checklist

  • Outfits for each family member
  • Shoes and accessories
  • Props (if desired)
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Toys or books for children
  • Touch-up makeup
  • Hair brush/comb
  • Lint roller
3

Relax and Unwind

The day before your session is a good time to relax and unwind. Take a warm bath, read a book, or watch a movie. The more relaxed you are, the more natural and authentic you'll look in your portraits.

Relaxation Tips

  • Avoid stressful activities
  • Take time for self-care
  • Practice relaxation techniques
  • Visualize a successful session
  • Get in a positive mindset
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The Day of Your Session

1

Eat a Good Breakfast

Start your day with a healthy breakfast to give you energy for the session. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can cause a crash later in the day.

Recommended

Eggs and whole grain toast • Greek yogurt with fruit • Oatmeal with nuts • Protein smoothie

Avoid

Sugary cereals • Pastries • Excessive caffeine • Heavy meals

2

Arrive on Time

Be sure to arrive at the studio on time for your session. This will give you plenty of time to get settled and ready without feeling rushed. At Motif Fine Portraits, they welcome you with Italian soda to help you relax and get comfortable before the session begins.

What to Expect at Motif Fine Portraits

  • Warm welcome from staff
  • Italian soda greeting
  • Time to settle and relax
  • Final wardrobe check
  • Meet photographer and posing coach
3

Trust Your Photographer

Your photographer is a professional who knows how to make you look your best. Trust their guidance and direction, and don't be afraid to ask questions. The team at Motif Fine Portraits has a professional posing coach who will guide you through the entire process, making you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

Mindset Tips

  • Focus on connection with family
  • Genuine emotions create best photos
  • Perfection isn't the goal - authenticity is
  • Enjoy the experience
  • Trust the process

Quick Reference Checklist

Save this checklist for easy reference

1-2 Weeks Before

  • Finalize outfits (2-3 color palette)
  • Schedule haircuts (7-10 days before)
  • Book beauty appointments
  • Talk to family about session

Day Before

  • Get good night's sleep
  • Pack bag with outfits
  • Prepare snacks
  • Relax and unwind

Day Of

  • Eat healthy breakfast
  • Arrive 10-15 min early
  • Trust your photographer
  • Relax and have fun

Ready to Create Your Masterpiece?

Book your fine art portrait session at Motif Fine Portraits and experience the red-carpet treatment from Toronto's premier portrait studio.

Book Your Session

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your fine art portrait session is a success. Remember, the goal is to create a timeless work of art that you and your family will cherish for generations to come. So relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience at Motif Fine Portraits!