STYLING YOUR SESSION 

Why Does IT matter?


You've booked your photography session and now you're worrying about what in the world you are going to wear. Thankful enough for you, I have lots of tips for you to help make selecting your outfits for your photo session a breeze! When you hire me to take your photos, I want to create beautiful images, I want to create art. The outfits you choose to wear should reflect your style as an individual, couple, or family. The colors, textures, and patterns will play a huge role in how your photographs turn out. I am here to give you all my insight on how to style yourselves and all the tips and tricks/ do's and dont's to having beautifully, thought out photographs taken! I am also a huge advocate for all things Pinterest, because I'm a very visual person. Pinterest does a fabulous job at all things visual so I will be attaching my Pinterest boards in this guide as well!

Do's and Dont's for Lifestyle Sessions:

(These recommendations are generally directed towards : Families, Maternity, Couples, and Engagement)


When planning your outfits for your session, here are some top do's and dont's to pay attention to! These tips can take your photos to the next level!

DON'T:

  • Wear sporty tennis shoes, opt for a more classy dress shoe or sleek shoe, believe it or not, shoes matter!
  • Wear neon colors, bright or vibrant colors can be difficult to photograph in certain locations!
  • Wear large logos, character tees or clothing with lettering, this can be super distracting from your beautiful faces!
  • (For the guys) I know lots of guys love their hats, however it can make photos difficult to photograph with lighting and it creates shadows. I would highly advise no ball cap style hats for the guys!
  • Overly match everyone. You will blend in with each other. Mix up the colors and shades it will add more dimension to your photos. Coordinating is great but don't get too matchy!


The above are just a few things to avoid, and in turn your images will have a more timeless and classic feel. Now you might be thinking, what in the world CAN I wear?

Here are a few tips to not only help you look and feel great but also will help create some special unique images that you will love for years to come.


DO:

  • Mix and match patterns with solids, the rule of thumb is one pattern for every two solids! I always tell clients it's always easier to start with one piece of clothing (preferably a favorite) and work around that. 
  • Wear earthy tones that compliment each other well.
  • Add textures and accessories that tie in everything together! (Wide brimmed hats, your favorite jewelry pieces, etc.)
  • (For the guys) Wear slacks, khakis, or a nice pair of jeans with a belt!
  • (For the ladies) Wear that dress! Find a dress that emphasizes your body type and you feel beautiful in. Dresses add so much dimension, movement, and are so timeless and classy when photographed, long dresses in particular look extra classy! Highly Recommend!
  • Think about how these colors will reflect in your home and if you will love them hung on your walls.


All of these are just suggestions and tips that I have taken to use and help style and create more timeless and elegant photographs!

Indoor Sessions

You can always opt to keep it casual and cozy for indoor sessions! You'll still want to follow the do's and don'ts guidelines somewhat but make it cozy and homey. Maybe go for your favorite pjs or simple wear with socks and/ or go barefoot, no shoes looks very natural in home and indoor sessions.

Adding Props

Think along the lines of food, blankets, picnic rugs, greenery, baby wraps, maternity props, hats, or a cozy blanket. Props such as these are a great way to enhance a session and add something a little extra. Once you have chosen your outfits, you can source props that work well or have varying textures and colors that compliment your outfits.


Coordinate with your Surroundings

If your location you're doing photos is busy (ex. lots of flowers, greenery, etc.), go with a more simple and plain outfit selection. You don't want to blend in with your surroundings. We want to focus on you and your gorgeous faces, not lose the focus in the surroundings.



Family Style Guide Link:


For Families, I typically tell mom to pick her outfit out first and then plan the rest of the crew and their outfits from there. It will be much easier to plan the rest of the outfits after she knows what she will want to wear.


Here are some Pinterest Inspiration Outfit Plans for Families to visualize:

https://www.pinterest.com/morganpurcellphotography/photoshoot-outfit-inspo/


Mommy + Me:

https://www.pinterest.com/morganpurcellphotography/mommy-me-outfit-inspo/


In- Home :

https://www.pinterest.com/morganpurcellphotography/in-home-outfit-inspo/

Engagement & Couples Style Guide Link:


Most of the time couples opt to do two outfits. One “cute, casual, or comfy” outfit and one more formal outfit. This will give your session two different looks, and I recommend beginning with the “cute casual” outfit first (as this will help you to feel more natural as we all warm-up).


Here are some Pinterest Inspiration Outfit Plans for Engagement or Couples to visualize:

https://www.pinterest.com/morganpurcellphotography/engagement-inspo-style-guide/


Still unsure of your outfits?

Still can't decide if the outfits you have picked out will be best for your photos? No problem! Just send me pictures! I am more than happy to assist anyone with feedback on outfits to help you get the most flattering looks in your photos.