Most parents want this style of portrait made for girls and boys ages 2 1/2 to 7. But we believe that any child, even a teen, is appropriate for this style.

Choosing a dress or outfit of a simple white, ivory, lavender, soft blue or pink will help to highlight your child's beautiful expression and is the perfect compliment the beauty of your portrait.

For Girls

We love the enduring look of a classic smocked dress, a formal flower girl or first communion dress. Adding a family heirloom necklace, bracelet or brooch is a wonderful accessory that adds an extra touch of importance to your portrait. 

For Boys

Younger boys are handsome in a Bobby Suit, Romper or a shirt with a Peter Pan collar. Older boys are preferable in a classic dress shirt. Soft plaids with a tight pattern are also acceptable in some cases. A nice accessory might be suspenders, a vest or a tie (and don't forget a belt).

Shoes

Because these portraits are designed as "head & hands" or "head & shoulders" portraits, shoes are not necessary. However, younger children sometimes object and insist on wearing the correct shoes to match their outfit. If so, bring the shoes! We will happily indulge their stylistic sensibilities (between us, shoes will not be visible in the portrait).

Here are some of the children clothing boutiques that our clients have used in the past.

• Strasburg Children (Alabama) - https://www.strasburgchildrens.com/
• Doodle & Stinker (Dallas) - https://doodleandstinker.com/
• Charlotte Sy Dimby (Paris) - https://charlottesydimby.com/
• Isabel Garreton (California) - https://isabelgarreton.com/
• Marie-Chantal (London) - https://mariechantal.com/
• Wren & James (Utah) - https://wrenandjames.com/
• Leigh Anne's Line (Missouri) - https://www.leighannesline.com/
• Pink Princess (California) - https://www.pinkprincess.com/

The Childhood Expressions Project celebrates the individuality of each child and the curated products are simply not suited for multiple subjects.

Parents of multiples may elect to have their oldest child participate in this project now, and younger children when they reach the same age. This would create a lovely anthology of all of your children at the same age.

If you would like a portrait made of all of your children (or entire family) together, please Schedule a Consultation with J.Ridout and we will design a custom portrait sitting for you. 

We have waived the Sitting fee for the Childhood Expressions Project this fall!

We begin with a photography sitting to capture a natural and authentic expression and a dignified pose. Captivating eyes are the hallmark of a J.Ridout Portrait. Many parents prefer just a hint of a smile for a more serene face while others want a more joyful look.

Immediately following the photography, we will guide you towards selecting the image of your child that best portrays who they are and compliments this style.

You will also see examples of the specially curated, ready to hang products that we have available for this project, available to order at special event pricing. Items ordered at the event will be available by Christmas along with a special gift for your family.

The Childhood Expressions Project is to create beautifully designed hand-painted or photographic portraits for clean and modern home interiors. There are no props. A hand-painted backdrop will provide a simple palette for your child to be the focus.

For this event, sitting fees have been waived, there is no pre-Sitting Consultation, and any portraits purchased from this event are displayed in a uniquely curated, framed presentation that is ready to hang and worthy of long-term prominent display hang in your beautiful home. 

Yes! Gather a few of your best friends to participate and I will come to you! Please message us for details.