What to Wear

Comfort Equals Confidence

If you feel uncomfortable in an outfit, it shows in the photos. If you are constantly tugging at a hemline or sucking in your stomach, you won’t be focused on the moment. Choose clothes that allow you to move freely and feel like the best version of yourself.

Universal Style Tips:

Regardless of the type of session you are booking, these principles always apply:

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Gone are the days of everyone wearing white t-shirts and jeans. Instead, choose a color palette of 2–3 coordinating colors and mix them throughout the group.
• Embrace Textures: Layers add depth to photographs. Think knits, denim, corduroy, or flowy fabrics. These photograph much better than flat, stiff cotton.
• Movement Matters (most applicable in women): Fabrics that move with the wind or flow when you walk create dynamic, cinematic images.

Color Palette Inspiration

Pastel Tones (Spring): Light Pink, Whites, Creams, Floral Patterns, Sky Blue, Sage, Yellow

A common theme in the color palettes is to have one person wearing a pattern. It is the easiest way to coordinate a group without looking like you are wearing a uniform.

1. Start with the Statement: Choose one outfit with a pattern (like a floral dress, a plaid flannel, or a textured sweater) that includes multiple colors from your chosen palette.
2. Pull the Colors: Dress everyone else in solid colors that exist within that pattern.
3. The Result: The group looks cohesive and visually ties everyone together.

Once you have your clothes picked out, don’t forget the finishing touches. Accessories are the difference between an outfit that looks “worn” and an outfit that looks “styled.”

• Layers add depth: A scarf, a cardigan, or a denim jacket adds texture that makes 2D photos feel three-dimensional.

• Jewelry adds sparkle: Gold or silver accents catch the light and draw the eye.

• Hats add personality: A wide-brimmed hat or a beanie can completely change the vibe of a shoot from formal to adventurous.

Remember: Accessories are easy to take on and off, giving you two distinct “looks” without needing a full outfit change!

Quick Tips by Session Type

For Families:
Start with one person’s outfit (usually Mom’s) and build the rest of the family around that. If Mom wears a floral dress, pull colors from the flowers for the kids’ shirts or Dad’s sweater. Avoid putting everyone in the exact same color.

For Couples:
Think about where we are shooting. If we are in a green forest, avoid wearing forest green or you’ll blend in. Contrast is key. Aim for “complementary” rather than “identical.” If one of you is wearing a pattern, the other should stick to a solid.

For High School Seniors
Bring variety!

• The Classic: A timeless look (nice jeans/sweater or a dress). White photographs VERY well for seniors.
• The Casual: What you would wear to school or to hang out with your friends
• The Personality: Something that screams “you” (band tee, sport uniform, hobby gear).
• The Statement: Something trendy or formal that makes you feel like a model. I know short dresses are in, but a 3/4 or full-length dress is so beautiful.
• Next Steps: Bring something to highlight what you are doing next. Like a college t-shirt, military hat, or tools for a blue-collar collar look. 

For Sports & Action
If we are doing styled sports portraits, full uniforms look best. Ensure jerseys are clean and wrinkle-free. For action shots, athletic wear that fits well is better than baggy sweats, as it shows off your form and movement. If you have home and away jerseys, bring both. Feel free to bring both club and school team gear if you are doing individuals.

Thing to Avoid

• Large Logos & Graphics: These distract the eye from your face. Unless it is part of your aesthetic, neutrals and patterns tend to be better. 
• Neon Colors: These cast unnatural colors onto your skin (e.g., a hot pink shirt can make your chin look pink). If you want to incorporate neon into your photos, let me know, and we can use the lighting wands. 
• Tiny Patterns: Very small checkered patterns or thin stripes can create a strange visual effect (moiré) in digital cameras.
• Smart Watches: Unless you specifically want it in the shot, remove bulky technology for a cleaner look.
• Things in Pockets: I will help you before the session to double-check, but it creates a much cleaner look when your pockets are empty. 

Need More Help?

 I am here to help you style your session! If you are stuck between two outfits, feel free to text me a photo of your options before your shoot.