A captured reflection of a lifetime of family memories.
Imagine the love of a newborn cradled in a mother's arms, or a young boy fishing with his dad on a warm summer day. These are the images we capture in our portraiture. A family portrait shows the love you have for your family and is a timeless reminder of the feelings you have for each other.
The portrait can reflect the lifestyle of you and your family whether it is a casual portrait at your cottage or on the front porch. Or if you prefer a formal portrait then perhaps our studio would be the choice.
If you own any old family photographs you can surely appreciate their value. They become family heirlooms handed down from generation to generation. A family portrait gives a much more personal touch as a decorative element to a room than that of a painting or a wall mirror.
Our family sessions start with a free consultation where we will discuss clothing styles, locations, times and any special needs your family may require. Don't worry if you don't know what you would like to do, that's part of the purpose of the consultation. Check out the family gallery page for some ideas.
Family sessions can be done at The Manor House either in the indoor studio for a more formal portrait or outside using our environmental sets. The lawns, gardens, or wooded areas are perfect for a more casual setting.
If you would rather have the portrait taken at your home or cottage or at a different location we are happy to accommodate and request
Having a family reunion, or just all the kids home for the holidays? This would be a perfect occasion for that family portrait you have been meaning to do. The portrait could be done in your family room, the front porch, out back on the back of the creek, on your boat... anything is possible.
Call us today at (315) 465-4848 to schedule a portrait consultation.
Don't forget about Christmas cards too! We carry a large variety of cards for Christmas or any occasion.
General Tips on Clothing
Clothing for Families
In a family group, proper clothing coordination is critical. When decorating a home, a major concern is to coordinate the colors and tones of the walls, carpets, draperies, and furniture. This kind of coordination also is necessary when selecting clothing for a group portrait. Choose clothing in the same tonal ranges so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too bright as compared to the rest of the group.
The Clothing choices shown here are very busy and compete with the faces. Bold stripes and busy patterns dominate the image and the faces are lost.
This photo shows a well coordinated group with the faces being what you see when you look at the image. No one member of the group stands out from the others.
The photo on the left is too busy due to the clothing choices which competes with the faces. The eye is drawn to the mismatched clothing. The photo on the right shows well coordinated clothing, where the faces stand out over the clothing.
Clothing for Couples
With only two subjects in the portrait, it is especially important to dress in the same colors to capture their relationship.
A light suit commands attention and can add weight against a dark background.
The busy pattern in this blouse is distracting.
Excellent coordination. Expressions hold your eye.
With business attire a pure white shirt or blouse with a dark suit jacket will emphasize your neck rather than your face. Pastel, thin striped, or soft patterned shirt with a subtle tie is preferable. You may want to bring extra clothing and accessories "just in case," and we will help you decide if something else would coordinate better.