Hey lovelies!

So, you’ve booked your portrait or headshot session with us – yay! We can’t wait to capture your beautiful essence and personality through our lens. But before we do, let’s chat about what to wear for your session. We all know that what you wear can really make a statement in your photos, so let’s make sure you rock it!

#1 Coordinate your color scheme

First and foremost, let’s talk about color. Choose colors that make you feel confident and comfortable. If you’re not sure where to start, try sticking to neutral tones like whites, creams, grays, and blacks. These colors are timeless and always look great in photos.

If this is a couples, family, or even a team shoot – we recommend picking a color palette and coordinating with each other! While you don’t have to match exactly, it’s a good idea to coordinate your outfits to complement each other. Avoid matching and blending together into one monochromatic blob. In order for the components of your photograph to really sing, you’ll want to find complementary outfits that showcase a controlled variety of texture, choose colors that work well together and avoid clashing patterns.

#2 Dress comfortably in what makes you feel the most confident

Next, think about the style of clothing that best represents you. It’s essential to wear outfits that reflect your personal style and make you feel comfortable. You’ll feel and look your best when you’re confident in what you’re wearing! Are you a boho babe, a classic beauty, or a trendy fashionista? Whatever your style may be, make sure your outfit reflects it. This is your chance to show off who you are! And remember, don’t be afraid to layer and add accessories – they can really take your look to the next level.

Shoes matter too! Whether you love rocking heels, sneakers, or boots, make sure your shoes are clean and match your overall look. Trust us, they can really tie an outfit together.

#3 Consider the  location and season

If we are shooting on-location and not in the studio, think about the location and season of your shoot when selecting your outfits. If it’s a beach shoot, light, flowy dresses or casual attire work well. For a rustic shoot, consider wearing earthy tones or even formal attire if desired. Think about the background scenery and colors that will be present in your shoot. If you’ll be in a lush green park, wearing green might blend you into the background. Choose colors that will pop against your surroundings.

Wear something that’ll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that’ll make you feel like the sparkly human that you are on the inside. Bring a couple outfits so that we can play with different options and combinations, and get a little sandy/wet/muddy if you’re game and the moment calls for it! If you have anything in your wardrobe that is textured, sheer, or billowy, fabrics that flow turn up so beautifully in photographs because they capture snapshots of movement – avoid starchy, stiff-seeming garments that get crumpled in weird spots and need adjusting. 

Sunset Engagement Session at Byington Vineyards

#4 Choose timeless outfits

Don’t be afraid to dress up a bit more than you would on a regular day! This helps create a polished and put-together look. Avoid wearing trendy clothes that might quickly look outdated. Opt for classic and timeless styles that will stand the test of time when you look back at your photos years later.

#5 Add pops of color

While neutral colors are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to incorporate pops of color into your outfits. A colorful scarf, statement piece of jewelry, or vibrant belt can add visual interest to your photos.

Couples Session at Golden Gate Bridge

#6 Avoid large logos or busy patterns

Large logos or busy patterns can be distracting in photos. Opt for simpler prints or solid colors that won’t overpower the main focus of the images – you! Below is a great example of picking a pattern, mixing texture, and selecting complimentary colors.

#7 Bring options and layers

To add variety to your shots, consider bringing a few different outfits and accessories. Layers like jackets, scarves, or hats can be added or removed to alter the look subtly from one location to another.

#8 What to bring

Pack things that support your comfort, your energy levels, and your mood. Lots of things fall into this category, like extra clothes for if the weather changes or you get a bit muddy. Or snacks for when you’re starting to feel that mid-afternoon slump. Or water to keep you feeling hydrated between smooches. Or tequila for a bit of liquid courage ;). Or a portable speaker for an impromptu boogie. It’s all on the table, as far as I’m concerned!

And most importantly, have fun with it! This is your moment to shine, so embrace it and rock whatever makes you feel like the fabulous human you are.

We can’t wait to see what you come up with! Remember, the most important thing is that you feel like the best version of yourself, because that’s what we’re here to capture.

See you soon, gorgeous!

xoxo, Anna

Want more? Here are 7 simple tips to being camera confident!