Couples Styling

Thank you for choosing me as your photographer. I am SO EXCITED to work with you!!

Rest assured, you’re in good hands! Location, posing, all my pro tips to make you guys look amazing, and of course ensuring this is an amazing experience for you both - that’s all on me. But before your session even starts - THE MOST important part you can be working on is STYLING. This can’t be over-stated. ;) Putting some thought into this up front will really pay off.

My sessions are typically 1.5 hours with time for 1 outfit. If you’d like 2 outfits, you’ll want to add an additional 30 min.

If it’s just one outfit, I’d go with something a little dressier/more elevated. Ladies a dress or skirt (a slit up the side makes for great poses). I recommend something a little longer so we have more flexibility with poses. Guys a button up linen shirt and nice jeans or khakis, ect. If you are working in a second outfit, that can be more casual but well-styled. Two outfits is great for variety in your gallery as well as in the poses we’re able to do.

Look Good. Feel Good.

The ideas above are just my recommendations. Ultimately, you should each choose outfits that make you feel great and go well together. TRY EVERYTHING ON BEFOREHAND and be sure your clothes are comfortable and fit well. We do a lot of moving around, so this is key ;)

Girls, be sure include classic, simple jewelry to complete your outfit. (diamond studs, or hoops, simple necklace, etc.). Guys, always wear a belt and throw in a watch or bracelet.

Nordstrom, Madewell, Aritzia, Altere’d State, Abercrombie, Express, Free People, Anthropologie, Lulus, and H&M are good options that offer a great mix of classic and on-trend styles.

Color Palet

A neutral pallet is a win every time. These are timeless and will go with any environment as well as your home and venue decor. Tip: Off-white, tends to photograph and compliment skin tones better than true white. Pops of color can be amazing too! Rich earthy tones, or muted pastels work great with our PNW backdrop. Please avoid neon colors, and bold/busy patterns.

Note: If these are engagement photos, you can incorporate small doses of your wedding colors, OR, just keep your clothing super neutral. This will create a cohesive vibe for your save-the-dates, wedding invitations, etc. They’ll also incorporate perfectly into, shower, rehearsal, and wedding-day decor.

Putting it all together.  

I’ll be working with you to ensure the location and wardrobe styling make sense together.

Once you’ve got your outfits nailed, I’d love to see them at least 3 days before our session.  This helps me creatively plan for posses and the general vibe. Plus, it leaves us a few days of wiggle room in case I have any additional suggestions you could incporatate. I’d love for you to try them on and snap a pic and text them over to me at 253.209.4054.

And finally… (important tips).

  • No Wrinkles. PLEASE have your clothing well-pressed and choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics.

  • No Text, or Large Graphics.

  • Hands & Nails. Whether you're a guy or girl, don't forget your hands. Your hands will be used a lot in posing and they will definitely show. Guys, be sure your nails are clean and trimmed. Girls a light, neutral polish is perfect. If this is an engagement shoot, be sure your ring is sparkling clean! :)

  • Guys. Remember to wear a belt - even if you don't really need it.  Its purpose is more for style than function ;) Be sure your socks and shoes coordinate well with your outfits. And, don't forget to throw in a bracelet or watch. Even if these aren’t something you’d normally wear, they’ll complete your look.

  •  Arrive clean shaven. If you have facial hair (beard, goatee, etc.) make sure it's well defined, with the surrounding areas cleaned up (including neck hairs). Facial hair that's not well-defined just ends up looking scruffy.   

  • Girls. Choose outfits that will accommodate various poses comfortably. If you’re wearing a bra, be sure the straps are concealed or look at strapless alternatives.  It's a good idea to bring an extra pair of shoes just for walking around, as some areas may be a little tricky to access with heels/sandals :) 

Ladies. Hair and Make-up.  

For hair, natural body, loose curls and/or beachy waves are best from a photographic standpoint. If your hair is typically straight, adding some body will look amazing in your pics. Again, most girls are comfortable doing this on their own. But feel free to make an appointment with your stylist if needed.

Even if you don’t normally wear makeup, I recommend it for this occasion. I know you’ll look and feel amazing. We want a classic, timeless look with natural tones. Professional makeup is NOT necessary, and most of my clients do their own. But if this isn’t your strong suit, check with places like Sephora and Ulta.  Pricing can range from Free (with a small purchase) to around $60.  They typically do a really great job and, best of all, they're usually willing to apply false lashes for you (if you purchase from them).(See more below on this). Please tell your makeup artist you are going for a very natural look.

Lashes should also have classic, timeless look. Nothing too dramatic. Just be sure to choose a mascara the doesn’t clump, flake, or smudge. Feel free to have lash extensions or falsies, but PLEASE keep them at a natural length and style, with no visible signs of lifting or glue.