Photo Session Prep Guide

Clothing is a form of expression, and the clothes that you pick to wear will reflect your personality in the images. My best piece of advice when choosing clothes is the simpler, the better.

1. FOR A SLIM LOOK—form fitting is definitely best. Look for figure-hugging clothes. Make sure it moves well with your body. Avoid blousy or boxy tops as they will make you look bigger on camera. 
2. THINK TEXTURES—Textures like lace, ruffles, and ruching add visual interest without overwhelming. Look for textured tops in solid colors. Avoid patterns as they may detract from your face. 
3. 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.) 
4. LOOK FOR LAYERS—Add a form-fitting jacket or slim fit knit cardigan to cover and slim arms. 
5. SLEEVE LENGTH—Consider longer sleeves. 3/4 length and long sleeves are universally flattering and slimming. Sleeveless is great on toned arms or pair with layers (see above) to slim arms. Avoid cap sleeves. 
6. BRING COORDINATING BOTTOMS—Many shots are 3/4 length. Bring pants or skirts that match your favorite tops; that way if your knee or hip is in the frame, you’ll be stylishly covered.  
7. 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 pictures. 
8. JEWELRY—Select jewelry that speaks to your style. Subtle? or bold? You choose. 
9. NAILS—Come with clean, manicured nails. Hands come into the frame a lot with headshots. Neutral colors, simple buff, or French manicure are recommended. 
10. UNDERGARMENTS—Bring appropriate undergarments. For example, strapless bras so your straps don’t show, seamless panties and shape-wear in appropriate colors.

GUYS:

1. FOR A SLIM LOOK—form fitting is definitely best! Look for slim-fit shirts and jackets. Avoid boxy or loose tops as they will make your look heavy on camera. 
2. AVOID PATTERNS—Stay away from patterned shirts and graphics as they may detract from your face. The one exception is ties– print ties will add a great touch! 
3. COLOR—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.
4. 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.
5. CASUAL 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. 
6. PROFESSIONAL LOOK—A collared, button up shirt and suit jacket is your best friend! 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. 
7. 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. 
8. SOCKS & SHOES—Bring coordinating shoes and socks. Sometimes feet come into the frame with cross-legged poses.
9. ACCESSORIES—You may want to do shots with or without glasses. Even holding glasses can create a statement. Bring rings, watches, and cuff links as desired. 
10. NAILS—Come with clean, manicured nails. Hands come into the frame a lot with headshots. Tend to your fingernails and polish your wristwatch and rings too if you wish.