For large groups keep the colors complimentary and unified. Too many patters, logos and colors will visually be distracting for the photo.

• Wear 3/4 lengths to full lengths sleeves if possible
• Dress in similar clothing styles and colors
• Avoid neon colors, large stripes and print on the front.
• Darker colors have a slimming effect
• Make sure your clothing doesn't have lots of wrinkles and pet hair on them.
• The clothing should fit properly, especially important for children. 
• Shorts are not recommended unless you are under 7.

Color schemes:

If you're not sure what colors work together, a great tool is the Adobe Kuler App. that can be downloaded for free onto your smart phone or pad.  You point your device to a color, freeze the image and it will suggest other colors that compliments the selected color. AMAZINGLY EASY!

If you don't have access to this app. here are some suggestions;

• Shades complimentary to blue i.e.: blue, dark gray, black, dark red

            Earthy tones i.e.: brown, gray, tan, maroon, black

• Dark shades of solids - gives the photographer most flexibility when placing people in the group.
• Jeans: Jeans are fine, just remember that people with light jean colors will be placed in the back as it visually draws more attention.
• Light color: White and ivory colors can be wonderful for a large portrait group.  Just make sure everyone is wearing similar style and color.
• Pay attention to the jewelry you are wearing.  Especially if you have temporary concert/club bracelets or yarn bracelets that you don't want to be looking at a few years from now.
• Scuffed nail polish on children is often forgotten until you see the photos.  Please remember to remove it.

Outdoor:

Since I work mostly with outdoor portraiture, here are a few other things to keep in mind.

• People tend to be more relaxed when they are outside.
• Cloudy days are great...we just don't have enough of them here in our neck of the world.
• Depending on what time of the year it is, the "magic" hour has wonderful light that is very flattering for the skin tones,  (About 1 hour before sunset unless it's summer, then you have some more time to get the good light) soft shadows, less contrast, no squinty eyes.
• Open shade is a great way to diffuse the light if we have to shoot in the middle of the day.  By open shade I mean under a patio, by the edge of tree clusters, shade from a large building etc.
• If it's windy and cold you have an option to reschedule since the chill and wind most likely will get you tense and uncomfortable. Photos usually don't turn out to your advantage.  This is something we would discuss, as we get closer to the scheduled shooting day.

Remember to talk to me about certain things you are self conscious about. Remember, I am here to make you look the best.  I want you to be happy with your photos.  Digital retouching is also your best friend.  It's done very tasteful and I promise you won't look like a china doll.