FOCAL POINT – The focal point is where your eye travels first and where your attention is held. The brightest or darkest point in your portrait is usually the focal point. Simplify by having one main focal point – YOU!

COLOR – Try to be consistent with other people in your group. Use the same color or the same tonal values. Clothing below your waistline should be darker than above. Light jeans worn below a darker top could easily attract attention to the lower part of your body and away from your face. White shirts and/or blouses under a dark jacket are perfect. Colors should be dark and not bright. This is so important! Bright colors will attract attention away from your face. Prints or any kind of pattern, no matter how small, may become a distraction. Neckties should be toned down in color with minimal pattern.

NECKLINES – A wide-open neckline tends to thicken the neck in a photograph. On the other hand, a neckline that comes up to the base of the neck, like a turtleneck or a V-neck top, will thin the neck and frame your face beautifully. With a collarless blouse or sweater, a scarf loosely tied around the neck will also help to frame your face.

HAIR STYLE and MAKEUP – Hairstyles should be simple and must be off the face. Hair falling down onto the sides of your face will create distracting shadows. Long bangs hanging in your face will block light from your eyes – the most important part of your face. Eye makeup should be blended – no sharp demarcation lines between colors. Avoid white above or below your eyes. Too much color above and/or below your eyes will attract attention to your make-up and away from your eyes. Blend foundation makeup at the jaw-line so that there is no demarcation between your face and your neck.