image from jcpportraits.com

Are you looking to get some family portraits taken? JC Penney Portraits Studio is having a great deal this month. Their April promotion of $20 for 6 traditional portrait sheets (mix and match size and images) as well as one free $9 sitting fee. (Portraits must be 10×3 or smaller.) What a great way to get some updated family pictures. Did you just have a baby? I know a few friends that have! I know it’s time for my family to get updated portraits done. We haven’t had any done in over a year. I was just going through pictures of the first day of 1st grade for Buddy and can’t believe how much he’s grown this past school year! As children, they change so fast! Don’t miss it by not keeping up on photos.

Do you need portrait inspiration? I started a JC Penney portrait inspiration board on Pinterest with some poses and background ideas. Needs some ideas to prep for your pictures? Here’s some ideas to start with:

Tips for preparing for your Portraits:

Dress for Portrait Success

*Keep clothing simple. Try to choose solid colors for your portraits. Avoid large, bold patterns such as plaids and stripes. Remember, bright colors also draw attention away from your face.

*Avoid short sleeves and tank tops. Long sleeves will draw attention away from your arms and helps bring the focus back to your face.

*jcpportraits’ photographers may suggest a full-length pose. Make sure you coordinate portrait clothing from head to toe.

*Darker clothing slims. Choose shades of black, brown, blue, dark green and other jewel-toned colors. Light tones tend to emphasize body size.

*Scoops or v-necks flatter shorter necks and full faces. Turtlenecks or high-necked garments flatter longer necks and slender faces.

*Keep clothing consistent. Dress everyone in the same style. Don’t mix casual and formal clothing in portraits.

 

Coordinate Colors

*Wear light on white. Light pastel or white clothing looks best against a light-colored or white portrait background.

*Wear dark on dark. Dark clothing looks best against darker backgrounds and creates a more formal mood in portraits.

*Don’t mix light and dark colors in portraits. Show your style in small accents. Save stronger colors and patterns for accessories like scarves and neckties.

 

Props and Backgrounds

*Ask your photographer for advice. If you’re not sure what you want in your portrait, jcpportrait photographers can help you choose a portrait background that suits your needs.

*Add in your personality. Bring your own props for a personal touch. Consider items such as baby blanket, stuffed animal, or a special toy.

When Buddy was a baby he had a special blanket that he wouldn’t leave anywhere. (He still sleeps with it.) I got pictures taken with him and that blanket. By the time we had gotten to those photos he had had enough picture taking so I gave him his blankie to calm down. Of course, after that he wouldn’t give it up. My suggestions: if you’re bringing a baby for pictures, let the baby have a nap first and make sure they’re well fed. Pictures can take a long time, so have snacks and a drink with for them. Even if the picture taking itself goes well and fast, it does take a while for them to pull up your photos to choose from. Don’t tense up! I know you want the perfect shot, but if Mama’s stressed out, the child will sense it and not be happy and natural in the photos!

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of jcpenney Portrait Studio. I was asked to create a Pinterest Board and pin at least five (5) pins. I give jcpenney the right to repin any or all images/original content from this board. I received a promotional item as a thanks for my participation.