Styling Guide
"What should we wear?" is easily one of the most common questions I receive after booking a client for any session. Here are a few tips to choose the right clothes and accessories to create stunning photographs and help you look and feel your best.
The Basics
Colour
Coordinate a colour palette that compliments each other and the environment that you will be photographed in. I recommend soft pastels, earthy tones, and classic neutrals like: creams, tans, sage green, heather gray, denim, sky blue, and blush. Consider contrast when picking your outfits. For example, if one subject is in a dark dress, the other should stick to light/medium tones.
Texture & Patterns
Textures and patterns help to add visual interest, movement, and dimension to your images.
Easy articles that can add texture include: chunky knit sweaters, long flowy dresses, velvet, fringe, etc.
To perfectly incorporate a pattern, remember this rule: one pattern for every three people. I recommend floral patterns or stipes. Avoid small, stripe patterns.
Layers
To add even more visual interest, add layers to instantly make your images feel warm and cozy. Add a chunky sweater that can be draped off the shoulder, an open jacket, vests, overalls, etc.
Other Tips
Lead with personality
Are you a sneakers & jeans kind of person? Wear them! Love to get dressed up? Be glamorous! Plan your session around your personality. If you and your spouse love to cozy up at home in your living room, grab your favourite lounge set and accessorize with a blanket.
select suitable Footwear
Select comfortable footwear that is suitable for the selected location. If you are planning to be at the beach, prepare to be barefoot (book that pedi girls!) or wear a easy slip-on sandal. If you are going for a dressed up look, heels can elongate your leg which is extremely flattering on camera.
choose seasonally appropriate outfits
Everyone is happiest when they are comfortable, especially kids! If you are planning for a winter session, ensure you are dressed warm with coats, matching mitts, tuques, etc.
Don't forget the little details
Steam the flowy dress, iron the shirt, cut the tags off your new top, test the undergarments you plan to wear, use a lint roller - whatever the case may be, put the time into ensuring your outfits are prepared to elevate your look.
Professional cameras can capture the smallest of details, so don't forget about plucking your eyebrows, grooming the beard, or getting a mani/pedi.
What to avoid when choosing your outfits
- Bright, neon colours that don't capture well and can create colour casts on your skin.
- Strong patterns like buffalo plaid or tiny patterns like pinstripes.
- Large logos or writing that can be distracting and removes the focus from what's most important - you.
- Low cut shirts, short skirts, or anything that limits your movement and ultimately poses.
- Hats, sunglasses, smartwatches, and any items that can create unwanted shadows or take away from the subject.