Portrait Session
Prep Guide
These are my top recommendations!
Bring more clothing than you think you'll need, even pieces you’re unsure about. People are often surprised by what looks end up being their favorites on-camera. I don’t have any clothing or accessories for you so we’ll only be photographing you in what you bring! The more variety we can photograph in, the more choices you'll have when it comes to image selection. The more choices the better! I have a rolling rack to hang your clothes and a steamer but please try to do your best to eliminate wrinkles beforehand so we can make the most of your session time.
A note on “slimming”:
I’m not trying to perpetuate the idea that “slimmer” is superior. But these recommendations are written for the vast majority of clients who’ve historically preferred to look slimmer in photos. If that doesn’t apply to you, feel free to disregard any slimming advice. However, please note that if you do want to look slimmer and you choose to ignore the below advice, you will appear heavier than you do in real life.
Matchmaking Clients:
If your matchmaker has given you any styling advice that contradicts mine, their advice takes priority for matchmaking purposes. But you’re welcome to also be photographed in outfits you’d wear for personal use of the images so bring whatever you’d like to be photographed in along with outfits for matchmaking purposes!
Women
For a slimmer look, form fitting is definitely best. Look for figure hugging clothes. Avoid blousy or boxy tops as they make people look bigger on camera.
Textures like lace, ruffles, and ruching add visual interest without overwhelming. Look for textured tops and/or dresses in solid colors. Avoid patterns as they tend to detract from the face.
Bring a variety of colors-- something light (ivory, white, pastel), something dark (black, charcoal gray, navy), something with a pop of color (something that brings out your eyes is best.)
Look for layers. Add a form-fitting jacket or slim fit knit cardigan to cover and slim arms. If you’re not self-conscious of your arms, feel free to show them off!
Consider longer sleeves. 3/4 length and long sleeves are universally flattering and slimming. Avoid cap sleeves if possible.
Bring coordinating bottoms -- pants or skirts that match your favorite tops; that way if your knee or hip is in the frame, you'll be stylishly covered. Bring coordinating shoes in case we do a full-body look.
Look for flattering necklines. Scoop, cowl neck, or v-neck are great options. Avoid high neck tops as they may make your neck look cut off in photos.
Select jewelry that speaks to your style. You can go bold or subtle or no jewelry at all. If you ever wear glasses, consider bringing them. Research shows that wearing glasses can increase perceptions of competence, trustworthiness, and likeability.
Come with clean nails as hands may come into the frame (you don't necessarily have to get a manicure but it's best not to have chipped polish.) Neutral colors, simple buff, or French manicure are recommended. But if a pop of color or sparkle shows off your personality, go for it!
If you don’t routinely get them, don’t experiment with spray-tanning prior to your session.
Men
For a slimmer look, form fitting is definitely best. Look for slim-fit shirts and jackets. Avoid boxy or loose tops as they will make you look heavier on camera. Avoid Patterns. Stay away from patterned shirts and graphics as they may distract from your face. The one exception is ties- print ties are okay.
Bring a variety of colors-- something light (white, gray, pastel), something dark (black, charcoal gray, navy), something with a pop of color (something that brings out your eyes is best.)
Look for layers. Add a form-fitting jacket to create a visually slimming look. Pair a v-neck sweater with your shirts to vary your look.
Going for a casual look? Consider long sleeves. A long sleeve knit henley looks much more polished and put together than a short sleeve t-shirt. We could also roll the sleeves on a button up, collared shirt for a more relaxed look.
Bring a collared, button up shirt and suit jacket. You can't go wrong with a white shirt and dark, fitted jacket. Go without a tie for a more relaxed look. Add a tie for a more professional look.
Bring coordinating bottoms. Many shots are 3/4 length. Bring pants or jeans that match your selected shirts; that way if your knee or hip is in the frame, you'll be stylishly covered. Remember to bring a belt.
Bring coordinating shoes and socks. In case we want to try a full-body photo.
Consider accessories. If you ever wear glasses, consider bringing them. Research shows that wearing glasses can increase perceptions of competence, trustworthiness, and likeability. Bring rings, watches, and cuff-links as desired.
If applicable, schedule a haircut for at least one week before your session or it could look “too fresh.”
5 o’clock shadows are totally fine! But if you prefer a clean shaven look, please arrive to the session clean shaven.