Given An "Old Time Photo" Package As A Present? Four Styles Of Old Time Photography That You May Choose From
You have probably seen old photos, taken from vintage eras such as the Old West and the Roaring Twenties. You may even have old family photos from several generations back. While these photos can be fun to look at, it may be more fun to have your own taken. In the event that a friend or family member gives you an "old time photo" package as a gift, you may want to know what eras or styles of old time photography you can choose from. Here are four of the most common styles that these novelty photographers usually offer and take.
Civil War Era
With the popularity of Civil War reenactments that occur every year, photographers may tour the country taking pictures of these reenactments and collecting cast-off costumes. The men can dress in navy blue for the North or in gray for the South. The ladies of the North have tighter, narrower pencil skirts with light hoops for volume and bustles off the derriere. Of course, if you would rather dress as a Southern belle, expect your costume selection for your photo session to include massive hoop skirts that billow out in all directions and require some practice when you sit for a picture.
The Wild West
The Wild West is another popular style of old time photography. The ladies dress up as modest seamstresses or teachers, or as less-than-modest ladies of the saloon. The fellas always get to choose from a wide variety of outfits that include gunslinger looks, Sherriff/deputy costumes, and cowboy or ranch hand outfits. Guns and knives are optional.
Roaring Twenties
Guys love to dress up in pinstripe suits and sport Tommy guns. The gals dress up as the gangsters' "molls, or Mollys", or as flappers. Most of the vintage or vintage-style costumes are in the photographer's wardrobe, but if you want to bring a hat your great-grandma wore or a prop that your grandfather was wont to carry (e.g., a pocket watch or pinky ring), you can.
The 1950's
Another old time photography style that is very popular (especially with some Las Vegas weddings) is the 1950's "greasers" and bobbysoxers. The guys get to dress up as either nerds or Marlon Brando-esque motorcycle riders, while the girls can dress up in poodle skirts and saddle shoes with tight sweaters or in skin-tight pedal pushers, neck scarfs, and leather jackets. As an added touch, you can sit in a classic car or on a classic motorcycle. If you actually own a vintage ride from this era, the photographer may encourage you to bring it.
For more information on old time photos, contact studios like Four Sisters Old Time Photo.