So here's the fit...

They say life isn't a fashion show... which is exactly why your session should be. I mean, why not have some fun with it? Of course, comfortably. If that means wearing dinosaur costumes, by all means, do it! Besides, when it comes down to it, the emotion in the images of you being entirely yourself, is what is going to draw you and others into the image for years to come. I've created these guidelines to help you out here and there. Honestly, I am 98% of the time in leggings, a t-shirt and my birks so I'd be willing to bet your fashion sense is much better than mine, this is just a guideline! Please don't feel like if you don't follow these that your images are going to suck, that's totally not the case, haha. The most important thing is that these images represent who you are right now, 20 years down the road. It's not about the clothing, it's about the passion.

It's always good to have options!

When planning for our session, I always advise toward pulling a few options. I'd stick to 3 tops and pairs of pants! Be sure to think about how easy these things are to interchange with each other. In the instance that we are in the woods somewhere, you could be changing behind the spare towel from my car like we're kids at the beach again or in the car pulled off the side of the road. Of course, I will let you know beforehand what the changing situation is like. Sometimes, something as simple as adding a jean jacket or even a hat can make the biggest difference! If you don't really want to go through the trouble of changing or even picking outfits, just pick one! All I ask is that you shoot me a picture of it beforehand so I can be sure it flows with our location.

This is you, now.

These images are going to be something like a time capsule of who you are, right now. The love you hold. The smile you show. They’re all little details of you. Flow is so important. I want you comfortable in any situation we find ourselves in. If every day you wear crocs and an old t-shirt with paint on it because that is what you’re the most comfortable in, wear that.

Colors

Because so much of my inspiration when shooting comes from nature and the outdoors, I am obsessed with neutral color tones. The mustard yellows, olive greens, burgundy reds and deep, royal blues. Of course I love color-play. I love mixing outfit colors to colors of the scenery we’ll be shooting in but if you felt like mixing those mustard yellows with pops of turquoise, it would look fabulous. I’m a lover of emotion shooting and bright colors tend to take away from facial expression. Basically, steer clear of bright, neon colors and we will be the best of friends! Of course, if you really want to wear that pink shirt, just shoot me a message or a picture of it first!
 
 
 

Patterns

I’m going to start this section off by saying, big chunky patterns are 99% of the time a no-go. Simply because of the fact that almost always, they take away from the image and emotion rather than adding to it. Typically, pairing patterns isn’t the best idea unless they’re extremely subtle. It makes the images just feel super busy and distracting. Oh! Before I forget, the iron is your new best friend. Be sure to get out those wrinkles before your session so they don’t take away from what matters in the picture, you.

Accessories & Props

Nope, not talking about a big chunky chalk board or any over sized letters representing your last name. I'm talking about the really fun things that can be as subtle as a hat or scarf! Another favorite accessory could be a camp fire, your pup, even a picnic! They don't have to be cheesy and something you saw on a hallmark card the other day in the store. Make it your own. Wear t-shirts you got at your first concert. Blankets to get cozy in. Hats that make you feel fancy. Things you think would be unique to you.

Hair & Makeup

We both can agree we want you looking and feeling your best for your session, so when it comes to hair and makeup this is what I will say, “whatever makes you feel like Beyonce”. If that means going and getting your hair and makeup all done, then do it! If that means slapping on one coat of mascara and tying your hair back, do that! If you do decide to get your hair and makeup done, I advise doing so an hour before our session. A, so that you can be sure you’re happy with how it looks and b, so that you’re sure you won’t be late to your session. Also, I’m super pale, so if you’re like me and like being tan for photos I recommend getting something super natural and also a couple days before our session so any marks or orange-ness washes off.

In Home Sessions

When shooting in home, all of the above is true, except I always say the more skin showing, the better! No, I don’t mean roll around naked with each other.. but you’re in your home, so get comfy! I always tell my clients to act like I’m not even there. I know I walk around my house with no pants on, so if you do too, then do it!

Airstream trailer parked in Joshua Tree, sunset in the background