Grin & Share It: Baby Portrait Contest— A Search For A Winning Personality (NAPSA)—Professional por- traits are one way that parents can capture the milestones, development and personality of their children. This summer, with a trip to a Picture People portrait studio, parents also can benefit babies living in poverty and possibly maketheir baby star. This nationwide chain of portrait studios is looking for a baby with a big personality to star in its national advertising campaign. The contest, created by The Picture People, is called “Grin & ShareIt.” To enter, parents simply need to bring their baby, age three and under, into any Picture People studio to have his or her portrait taken. Theportrait sitting and contest entry are free. And with each entry, the portrait chain will make a donation to Room To Grow (www.roomtogrow.org), a non- profit organization providing parents in poverty with baby items and support throughout their child’s first three years. The Picture People will also accept customers’ donations of new and nearly new babies’ books to share with Room To Grow. Whether parents are looking to maketheir child a national star or simply hope to capture thefirst toothy grin, there are suggestions to ensure that a little one’s personality shines through. Photographers at The Picture People offer these eight easy tips: Take a child’s portrait during his or her “best” time of day, like after naps and feedings. Select clothing that is bold, bright and simple—no busy stripes or patterns. * Most babies will be happier and more comfortable in play clothes. Portraits do not always have to feature dressy clothing. * Don’t worry about the shoes and socks—a Picture People portrait is about personality, and = oe — P— —— % A DEVELOPING STORY—A free portrait contest may make your babyinto a star. they like to feature bare little babytoes. * Incorporate some personal props, such as a favorite toy or a special blanket, that showcase the child’s personality and uniqueness. These items help create that keepsake portrait for the family album or baby book. Parents should stay close to their child during the portraits to create a “comfort zone.” Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the appointment. Use the time to relax with the child and allow him or her to be comfortable with the environment and store staff before the camera starts clicking. Bring diapers, wipes, snacks, favorite toys and blankets for a clean and happy baby. The “Grin & Share It” Baby Contest is for babies ages three and under and runs July 27 through September 15, 2002. For more information about the free portrait sitting and contest, visit www.picturepeople.com or call 1800-341-HOURto locate a nearby studio.
