When working in-studio, Charles has winnowed through many approaches and has settled on the two most compelling and elegant portrait designs: the Classical Azure and High Fashion White.

The Classical Azure allows for a range of formality to suit your own personal style. It's deep and rich tones focus attention on the faces. Note that the clothing is usually darker, to blend with the background. By varying the clothing and the posing we can thoroughly adjust the mood.

  • This is a formal approach, which is elegant and timeless.

  • Even with formal clothes, posing can make it less formal.

  • With the right smile and posing, it can be less even less formal.

  • And with clothing, posing, and stuffed animals,
    it can be very casual and fun.

High Fashion focuses on the strong and bold elements. It works great for children or families who like to have fun and show it! Clothes can be very bright and strong-colored (though it's still best to stay away from patterns). High Fashion is fun, emphatic, and direct.

  • For families, you can go all in one color or shade like these:

  • or mix the two together like this:

  • Strong colors work well in a family group.
    Note how the parents and the kids are tied together by color:

  • Don't worry if you can't perfectly coordinate a big group,
    it still works very nicely and it will be treasured for generations!

  • For kids and teens, solids and bright colors work well:

  • Pale colors and pastels are rockin'!

  • or a bit of print or pattern is OK for kids or individuals:

  • White clothes are very clean and cool looking!

  • Of course, animals don't need to dress up at all!

  • Kids seem to be made for this style of portraiture
    (or is it the other way 'round?)

  • And who is to tell a little girl she
    can't wear her favorite top and skirt?

  • Even the working-man looks great on the white
    (especially when he's my son!)