Portrait Session Style Guide

One of my main goals is to guide my clients through a stress free portrait experience that will result in beautiful, flattering images you’ll love forever. Please use this guide as a resource when planning for your session. If more help is needed, please let me know. I love planning zoom calls with my couples and my number is always available for pictures of your outfit ideas!

I love seeing outfit choices! Feel free to send a pic : (845)702-2899

Coordinate styles

Always keep in mind what the others are wearing. If she wants to wear jeans and a tank top paired with booties then he should wear a similar style. Avoid things like baggy pants, khakis, pattern or colorful shirts, and running shoes. Stick with well fitting jeans, neutral colors, basic tops, etc. If you need help with comfy but dressy clothes for kids - Old Navy, H&M, and even Target have great options! This will set you up for timeless images you'll love for years to come.

Coordinate, Don't Match

Choose color palettes that mesh together well but are not exactly the same. Neutral tones are always recommended. Vibrant colors like green, blue, and red should be avoided.

Don’t Fear Dressing Up!

Do what makes you feel your very best! Bring a suit, one of your favorite cocktail dresses, or your favorite heals. This is the time to rock an outfit you feel gorgeous in. Just keep in mind the location of the shoot and what would look best with the background.

Want an excuse to buy a new outfit? Client favs include LuLu's and Baltic Born!

Shoes

This step tends to be overlooked. Do yourself a favor - don't overlook it! Ladies will want to wear heels, booties, boots, or fashion sandals. Guys will want to consider nice dress shoes, boots, or even a basic pair of sneakers like Vans

Makeup and Hair

I always encourage my clients to treat themself to a hair and makeup day at the salon! It really sets the tone for a fun, stress free day! If doing your own hair and makeup, be sure to practice the look you are going for before your session!

Notes

  • Love wearing a baseball cap? Be sure you don’t wear one the day of your session to avoid hat lines

  • Avoid cap sleeves. Sleeveless is great on toned arms. 3/4 sleeves are universally flattering and slimming.

  • Remember to wear clothing that you are physically comfortable in. Pieces that allow movement will make for much more natural photos

  • Add textures like lace, ruffles, and ruching to add visual interest that isn't distracting.

  • Set aside your clothes and accessories as soon as you have them planned

  • Clean and press clothes in advance.

  • Don't do anything thats not a part of your usual beauty routine. No spray tan. No radical hair color change. No facials, fillers, or botox within one week of your shoot

  • Touch up roots and tend to your manicure/pedicure. French, buff, or nude nails are best as they’ll go with any outfit!

Need more visual inspiration? Click HERE to view a Pinterest board of outfit inspiration