photograph

[Connemmara]

Well I have a big birthday at the end of this year and I am not vain but would like a nice portrait of myself done professionally ie makeup and hair and position of photo. My first photo of myself was when I was 5 years old so I would like to treat myself to this. I dont know where to start.

What do I look for?

[snags]

Google Portrait Photographers in your area...

[Connemmara]

thanks snags - looked up a few there and eventually ring them to make sure they enhance your makeup etc.

[tamborine]

cheaper option - photograph yourself, load pic up to photo software, change photo display to art/oil/watercolor - print out........voila ;)

[Connemmara]

tamborine - dont have that software

[karenmac60]

I just saw some 'boudoir' photos my cousin had done and I'm seriously tempted to get some done myself. She looked absolutely amazing! I'm sure there were many I didn't see, but they weren't all x rated :) I would ask about before going with just any photographer in your area though - they all have different styles and levels of ability, so check with other people for recommendations, and check their work. Many have online galleries now and you can see some of their photos to see if it's what you are looking for.

[mormess]

I had a fab shoot in Cardiff. I did my own makeup but the photographer knew how to put me at my ease and direct me so I looked fab. His partner works a lot on post production - framing shots, enhancing colour, but they tell me they didn't to too much! Look closely at their portfolio and see if it's what you want - all have very different styles.

Big ones such as Venture are more expensive. But all photographers work in the same way - usually charge per shoot then per prints you order.

Not all do makeup as well so you may have to get your own makeup artist or do your own.

Have fun and if you're in Wales or SW let me know and I'll recommend my chap to you!

[jno]

if they have shop windows, have a look at what they've done for other people. Ask the photographers for references from previous customers. If you subscribe to Which?, have a look on Which Local.

[tamborine]

Connemmara, load your pic to Tiny or such....post address & I'll do it for you for your birthday ;)