What to Wear for a Photo Session: Expressing Your Authentic Self
Two things I love: Photography and getting dressed. So naturally, it made sense for my first blog post to combine these two things! Capturing beautiful moments through the lens of a camera has always been a source of joy for me, just as clothing and my personal style has been a form of self-expression.
A photo session is an opportunity to capture special moments and create lasting memories. One of the key elements that can enhance the overall look and feel of your photos is your choice of clothing. In this blog post, I want to share with you some of my insights and ideas on what to wear for your session - ensuring that your clothing choices not only enhance the visual appeal of your photos but also serve as a reflection of your your personality and style. We'll explore some tips and considerations to help you dress appropriately for your session, while staying true to who you are.
Be coordinated, but not matching:
When planning outfits for a photo session involving multiple people, it's nice to coordinate your looks without being too matchy-matchy. Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit (i.e. the classic “white shirt and jeans” look), opt for a color palette that complements each other. Choose a couple of key colors and incorporate them into each person's ensemble. This will create a cohesive and visually-pleasing group photo without sacrificing individuality.
Consider the time of year and location:
The time of year and location of your photo session can greatly influence your clothing choices. For outdoor sessions in the summer, lighter fabrics and breathable materials are ideal to keep you comfortable in the heat - we don’t want you sweating through your clothes! In the fall or winter, layering can add depth and texture to your outfits while keeping you warm. Consider the surroundings and colors of your location as well. For instance, if you're shooting in a lush green garden, earthy tones or soft pastels may complement the setting beautifully. And please - no heels on the beach. They don’t go well together.
Mix and match patterns (with moderation):
Mixing and matching patterns can add visual interest and personality to your outfits! But we do want to strike the right balance here. Choose one or two main patterns and complement them with solid colors or smaller, more subtle patterns. This will prevent your outfits from appearing too busy or overwhelming in the photographs. Remember, the focus should be on you and your loved ones, not solely on your attire.
It’s ok to buy something new, but …:
Buying something new for your photography session is exciting, but remember to stay true to yourself. Make sure it’s something that speaks to your personal style and makes you feel like the fabulous individual you are. The goal is to feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing, allowing your true self to shine through. Avoid choosing clothing that feels too out of character, because we want your photos to reflect who you really are.
Let your clothes reflect your authenticity:
Above all, let your clothes serve as an extension of your authenticity. They should capture your individuality, style, and the essence of your personality. We want you to be confident in what you wear, because when you're comfortable and genuine, it shines through in your photographs. Whether you prefer a casual and laid-back look or a more polished and refined style, embrace what feels authentic to you.
Ultimately, when it comes to dressing for a photo session, the key is to strike a balance between coordination and individuality. I encourage you to think about these things when preparing for your photo session. And if you’re unsure - reach out to me! Did I mention I LOVE photography and getting dressed? I’m always up for chatting about what would work best. (Or look over what some of my awesome clients wore here!) And we can work to create unforgettable photos that reflect the real you. So, dress to impress (yourself), and together, we’ll create images that look and feel like you!
