Styling forGirls

Besides the session itself, styling is the most important part of planning. This cannot be overstated :)  Putting some thought into this up-front will really pay off. I’d love for you to give this a read to get the most from your session.

Style & Fit

First and foremost, wear something that makes you feel beautiful and confident! Up your game from what you might typically wear and don't be afraid to step beyond the norm. By incorporating both timeless and trendy looks with an elevated, polished style, your photos will look incredible.

COLOR PALET

  • Neutral staples like off-white, cream, black, navy, etc. (I recommend staying away from bright white).

  • Include pops of color in rich or muted earthy tones or pastels

  • Avoid bright primary or neon colors and/or bold/busy prints.

  • Keep in mind this is just a general guideline.

3-4 OUTFITS

  • 3 well-styled outfits. The 4th outfit depends on the location, accessibility to changing, and other variable circumstances

  • 2 of your outfits should be elevated from what you’d normally wear

  • The third should be a well-styled but more casual/everyday outfit (same for the optional 4th)

  • To maximize variety in your session, it’s important the outfits are very different from one another. I would rather have you invest in 3 GREAT outfits that you’re super excited about, than work in a 4th.

  • You can also add variations to your outfits by adding a jacket, or other layer that can be taken on or off.

WHAT TO WEAR

  • Flowy maxi dress or skirt. Something that allows and shows movement for those fun candid shots.

  • Straight skirt, with a slit (the slit allows movement and is great for posing)

  • Short dress or romper

  • Pockets are always a bonus for more posing options (even on dresses!)

  • Dress Pants, heels, silky top or sweater. Something classy and sophisticated for those editorial shots

  • Jeans, cut off jean shorts, or mini skirt

  • Off-the shoulder, strapless, halter tops, puffed sleeves, modest plunge, spaghetti straps, etc. These will add more style and interest vs just a plain crew neck.

  • Cowl or turtleneck for fall/winter

  • Choose outfits with a modest length and neckline to accommodate various poses.

  • PLEASE be sure bra straps won’t show and/or wear a strapless bra/pasties.

  • Altar’d State, LuLus, Zara, Free People, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, Asos, and Aritizia all offer great on-trend looks with a mix of timeless styles.

ACCESSORIZE! (Even if it’s normally not your thing).

  • Rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. will complete your look with a polished style.

  • Hats, belts, sunglasses, boots, etc. can easily taken on or off for different looks and serve as props, for additional poses.

  • Adding jacket, vest, or other “topper” for different looks and offers more posing options. This will be especially important for fall and winter sessions.

Props & Pets.(optional of course). If you’re an athlete or musician, let’s showcase that in a few of your photos. Props can just be something minimal that add a fun vibe. Sunglasses, bubble gum, cute clutch, Starbucks cup…seriously, anything goes here. If you’re really into your pet, feel free to bring them for few shots!

Hair and Make-up.  

  • I recommend full makeup (with a very natural look). If makeup isn’t your strong suit, this would be a great opportunity to pamper yourself. Most cosmetic counters offer MUA and can be scheduled in advance (Sephora and Ulta are great options). Pricing can range from Free (with a small purchase) to around $60.  They're usually willing to apply false lashes for you (if you purchase from them).

  • If using a professional artist, please request a classic, timeless look with natural tones, that accentuate your natural beauty.

  • Feel free to use falsies or extensions which have the benefit of being clump and smudge free, but nothing too dramatic or thick, which can actually hide your gorgeous eyes.

  • If you've never applied false lashes before PLEASE practice until you are confident in this before your shoot. No visible glue, seams, clumping, or lifting in the corners

  • For natural lashes, choose a mascara the doesn’t clump, flake, or smudge.

  • For hair, I recommend natural body, beachy waves, or a beautiful blow-out. This will look gorgeous in your photos. If your hair is typically straight, adding some body and volume will create more movement.

Putting it all together.  

It’s important that the location and wardrobe styling make sense. The tones in the environment and wardrobe should compliment each other. I’ll be working with you on this once I receive your questionnare which will tell me the vibe you’re going for.

Once you’ve got your outfits nailed, Try ALL of your outfits on first and be sure everything fits well and is comfortable. If anything is bugging you about your outfit prior to the shoot, choose something else. I’d love to see them at least 3 days prior to our session.  This helps me creatively map out your session based on the scenes I think will work best with your outfits, and which ones to start and end with. It’s ideal if you try them on and take a selfie in a full length mirror (or have someone else take the pic for you). This also gives us some wiggle-room on time in case I can offer some additional suggestions for your outfits.


And finally… (important tips).

  • No Wrinkles Please: PLEASE have your clothing well-pressed and choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Wrinkles look sloppy, create a visual distraction.You’re making an investment in your senior session and I know you’ll want to look your best.

  • No Text or Logos. Please avoid graphic-tees (especially with writing or large logos). While it might be on-trend, it just becomes a visual distraction. We definitely want to keep the focus on YOU. The exception to this, of course, is if the logo text has significance (like a team or club you belong to), in which case, it’s totally fine!

  • Hands & Nails: Your hands will be used a lot in posing and they will definitely show. You don’t need a professional manicure, but be sure they look clean and manicured. A neutral polish is perfect.

  • Extra Shoes: Bring an extra pair of grubby shoes for accessing difficult areas where there might be rocks, water, prickly grass, etc. Once we’re in position, you can put on the right shoes.