Here are some tips about how to prepare for your portrait session. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to call our studio at (352) 372-4462.

Clothing: Solid colors are the best thing to choose, stay away from anything with stripes, prints, or plaids. Remember darker colors and sleeved clothes are more sliming but bright and straps are fun too, don't rule them out -- bring choices.
Family clothing: when trying to dress two or more people for a session don't worry about matching everyone exactly the same, instead match a color pallet such as fall colors, light pastels, etc. However matching bottoms such as everyone wearing jeans or kakis is a good idea.

• Whites and pastels are great for our white and light backgrounds.
• Something dark or black always looks great in our studio
• Bring different outfits to choose from
• Please avoid sleeveless shirts

Hair: Do your hair before you arrive, we don't suggest trying new hair styles or colors for your portraits. Be natural and comfortable.

Skin: Don’t worry if you develop skin problems, our finished portraits can be fully retouched to eliminate blemishes.

Glasses: Problems with glass glare can be very unflattering. We can remove some minor glare on glasses but tinted glasses can not be lightened. Glasses that are tinted and/or exceptionally thick should be replaced with a pair of frames without glass. You can ask your optometrist for these or you can take the lenses out of an old pair if you are comfortable doing this.

Makeup: both fresh natural makeup and evening makeup look great in photographs. Please don't try to change the color of your skin with make up, your neck and arms should match the skin tone of your face. Any type of waxing (such as eyebrows) should be done 2-3 days before your portraits to make sure the redness and swelling goes down.

Expecting mothers: we suggest you bring several different clothes to choose from, such as button up shirts so we can open them and show belly, gaucho cotton pants, skirts, your favorite outfits and accessories.  We have fabrics and wraps but we still like to see what unique things you might bring to mix and match with our fabrics. Stretch marks (beauty marks as we like to call them) and unwanted belly hair are very common and can be removed through retouching upon request. Please refrain from wearing tight bras or pants or anything that will leave a strong mark on your skin prior to the session.  As always, keep yourself hydrated and rested for a more pleasant session.  Keep in mind that although we photograph a lot of moms in white, darker colors are more sliming than lighter or white colors.  You may look at examples on our web site. Solid colors photograph much better than patterns.

Babies and Children: bring your favorite outfits, but stay away from busy patterns if possible.  We suggest a full tummy prior to the session and if your child is on a set schedule, try to make your appointment at least 1 to 2 hours prior to nap time.  Bring snacks and juices as well as a lovey (favorite toy).  Teething is a very important milestone, but also one that can make for a tough session, feel free to re-schedule if your child doesn't feel good the day of the session.

Tanning: Removal of tanning or sunburn lines will incur additional charges. Tanning is ideal to add a little color to your skin. If you over tan you run the risk of looking orange or burned and uneven. If you use a spray tan please make sure it is evenly applied and blended especially in the joints and bends of your body.

Ordering Session: About a week or less after your portrait session we have a projection and ordering session at our studio. Please make sure everyone who will be involved in making your order decisions will be present for this viewing.  Also keep that in mind that friends and family who won’t be involved in decisions tend to be more distracting than helpful.

Q. What will my session be like?
A: In one word it will be FUN. We are dedicated to providing a friendly atmosphere. We  pride ourselves in making portraits that are unique to each individual

Q. Does the session have to be in the studio or can I have location choices?
A: We are available to go on the location of your choice or we can suggest some, just give us a call and we will discuss creative options. Location fee will apply.

 Q. What should I bring with me?
A: At JS Photography we use very few props of our own if any at all. We do encourage you to bring props that express who you are.   If you are still not sure about what to wear bring several outfit choices so we can help you decide.

Q. Can I bring my pet with me?
A: YES!!! If your pet is too large (horses for example) we will be more than happy to go on location to accommodate your animal friend. Call ahead to discuss details, and please keep in mind cats don’t enjoy portraits as much as dogs. Location fee will apply.