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Writer's pictureHeather Connery

6 Tips to Make the Most of Your Heirloom Vignette Portrait Session

Updated: Dec 20, 2023

Heirloom vignettes are, in my opinion, the most special, timeless portraits you can have made of your child. You want this session to go smoothly and give you the beautiful, classic images you're hoping for to hang on your wall. Here are 6 tips to help make that happen.


1 - Bring your child in their pajamas.

Let them be in their pajamas or other comfy outfit on they way here, and they can change once you get to the studio. This keeps the outfit you worked so hard to iron or steam from wrinkling. It also allows your child to be cozy on the way here and not irritated by a possibly uncomfortable outfit.


Heirloom portrait of an 8 year old girl with short dark blonde hair wearing a white peter pan collared shirt and a white ribbon bow.

2 - Check their face.

Just before they step onto the backdrop, make sure their face is free of food, eye, and nose crusties - or any other marks like marker or paint. I will have wipes here if you need them. If they have a bruise or blemish, I can take care of that in post production.



3 - Wear classic or heirloom attire.

For girls, an heirloom gown, romper, bubble, or peter pan collared shirt. For boys, an heirloom shorts set, bubble, jon jons, or collared shirt. Boys and girls should wear white, ivory, or a pastel. Shoes aren't necessary, but make sure they are white/ivory and clean and polished if you decide to bring them for any possible full body shots.



4 - Keep accessories simple.

For girls, little to no jewelry. Earrings should be simple studs, and if you choose to have a necklace, make sure it is a simple gold or silver pendant or pearls. Bows should be small, or use a simple barrette or bobby pins. Boys are best with no accessories.


5 - Bring a favorite toy or lovey for the littles.

If you feel your little might need some extra comfort at some point during the session, bring along their favorite toy or lovey. These portraits are usually from the chest up, so their special item wouldn't be seen in the photos. I also have some wooden toys available.


6 - Feed the belly.

I will say this every time. Never bring a child - or anyone - to a photoshoot with an empty stomach. Making sure they have a meal or a snack before they arrive will work wonders for their mood and their smiles.




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