Pretty In Pink
For those who’ve talked with us about our clothing preferences for kids headshots, the fact we’re headlining this article with a look that’s decidedly pink might come as a surprise. Never fear: we’ve not suddenly become purveyors of all portraits pink. It’s usually too bright, too loud and too overwhelming for most complexions. “Pink as accent color;” that’s our mantra.
But sometimes pink is the perfect color, as you can see from this marvelous headshot we did last week for beautiful Miss Chloe. Why does it work? Because pink enhances her beautiful warm skin tone. Add a very subtle bit of makeup, an absolutely trending hairstyle (both by our bestie, Karina Talaro) and take away any background distractions and you have a great kids headshot.
(For those who are wondering: we don’t typically include hands in headshots, either, but sometimes you just go with the flow.)
Classic Denim
We’re first to say a denim jacket in a kids headshot can go one of two ways: it can look completely cliched or it can look clean and classic.
In this image of lovely Miss Greta, denim over a T-shirt works perfectly. It’s a wonderfully subtle canvas that doesn’t distract us from Greta’s bright shining eyes and slightly mischievous smile.
Karina’s less-is-more approach to hair and makeup frames her eyes smashingly and gives us a perfect snapshot of who the casting director will be booking for that new role (which is the whole point right?)
Always Earth Tones
If pink’s not your style and denim is just a little too classic, you can’t go wrong with earth tones.
The color palette we call earth tones is so broad you’ll always find a color that compliments your complexion, from a light azure (which works nicely with lighter skin tones) to evergreen (perfect for darker complexions) to this great combination of olive and maroon on Mr. Jimmy. It’s the perfect compliment to his blue eyes and strawberry blonde hair.
When All Else Fails
Still not sure what’s right for your kid? When they put on an outfit and stand in front of you, do you think: “Wow, that color looks great with her complexion” or “That shirt really makes his eyes pop?” If you do, then you’ve found your kid’s perfect headshot look.
Michael Verity is a Portland-based photographer specializing in professional headshots, modeling portfolios and fashion editorial photography. The husband of an acting coach and father of two young adult actors, he’s been photographing successful actors, creatives and business professionals for more than a decade.