Expert tips from Motif Fine Portraits on creating timeless family portraits. Learn what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect.
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.
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.
Men: Suit, dress shirt, tie
Women: Gown, elegant dress
Men: Button-down, trousers or dark jeans
Women: Simple dress, blouse and skirt
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.
7-10 days before session
1-2 weeks before session
1-2 days before session
3-5 days before session
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Eggs and whole grain toast • Greek yogurt with fruit • Oatmeal with nuts • Protein smoothie
Sugary cereals • Pastries • Excessive caffeine • Heavy meals
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.
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.
Save this checklist for easy reference
Book your fine art portrait session at Motif Fine Portraits and experience the red-carpet treatment from Toronto's premier portrait studio.
Book Your SessionBy 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!