THE GUIDE
MY MAIN FOCUS IS TO DRAG ATTENTION TO THE EMOTION AND THE STORY OF MY IMAGES.
That being said, you should know right off the bat that I won't tell you exactly what to wear. This isn't about perfecting a photo for instagram or limiting your choices but rather easing the process of deciding what to wear for a photoshoot session while keeping in mind outfit choices that will make your pictures look like art rather than just photos.
With no further ado, let's go!
Comfort First
Wear what makes you feel confident and happy.
Being fully present—both physically and mentally—makes all the difference. If your clothes feel too tight, restrictive, or distracting, it’ll show in the photos. Choose outfits that allow you to relax and move freely so we can create the most meaningful, natural images possible.
Bring Options
Mix and match saves the day.
If you are unsure of what to wear, and you have a car, bring 2–3 outfits you can mix and match. If something doesn’t work with the setting or light, we’ll have backups.
•Outdoor Shoots: Be prepared to change in cars or discreet spots. I do, however, encourage you to text me your options and I’ll help you pick, if you are unsure (I was told I'm good at styling haha).
•Indoor Shoots: Lay out your outfit choices ahead of time so we don’t lose time digging through closets.
Let Your Personality Shine
Bring your energy.
I don't want to limit you or erase your personality from the images if you are a person who dresses with bold colour choices (I also love colours and how they inspire me to create more playful and very often exciting shots). However we can definetly create exciting images if you have a more simplistic approach to dressing up.
People usually tend of choose between:
Simple Outfits: Minimal colour, muted layers, easy on the eye. Adding sometimes a single item that leans towards a bolder side.
Standout Outfit: Bold colours, interesting textures, layered or accessorized for visual punch.
***Avoid fluorescent tones like hot pink, red, orange, or yellow—they can reflect onto skin and look unnatural in photos (unless we ar aiming for an editorial shoot).
Choosing Colours
Fewer colours = more timeless photos.
Neutral and muted tones usually photograph best. They’re classic, don’t steal attention, and help maintain a cohesive look across your gallery.
Avoid matching, aim for coordinating. Matching outfits (white tops + jeans for everyone) feel forced.
Coordinating colours that complement each other create more organic, stylish results.
2–3 colours for two people
3–4 colours for groups
matching vs. colour coordinating
Dana & Chris
the white match
I love this shoot, but if I could change one things about it would be the matching of her white dress + his white t-shirt.
It gives off wedding vibes, when it was actually their engagement shoot.
Sunset w/ family
THE MATCHING TOPS
Yes, this image looks gorgeous, but the matching tops kills me every time haha.
Olivia & Zane
same tones
I'm being extra picky here, but I guess you can see that when the colours of different outfits have the same HUE/Tone, it will make your images less dynamic.
matching vs. colour coordinating
Matt & Monica
4 colours that worked beautifully
Dark Green, beige, light blue, and black, contrasting against a dark red backdrop.
Because they are all darker + neutral tones, it all worked out quite nicely!
Park w/ family
4 people, 5 colours
I absolutely love how this shoot played out. We went from a park to the beaches and the colour coordination did not dissapoint.
Her green jumpsuit pairs well with the spring greenery of the park, her son's orange t-shirt with the red of his wagon, and her partner was wearing a black tee with brown shorts.
Renata & Filipe
MOODY and romantic
Nothing here is distracting, therefore, their personalities shine through their outfit choices!
Textures, Shapes & Location
Outfits should complement the environment.
Think about your shooting location:
Texture-rich spots (like forests, rocks, or urban settings): Go simpler with your outfit to stand out.
Minimal environments (fields, beaches, studios): Go bolder to add interest and depth.
Patterns & Logos
Emotion > Distraction
Say no to:
•Chunky patterns, thick stripes, or overly busy prints.
•Large or branded logos (unless it’s part of a fashion/editorial concept)
These things steal attention from what matters: your face and expression.
Movement & Materials
Let it flow. Literally.
Go for flowy materials that move with the wind and your body.
Stiff fabrics = discomfort = stiff photos.
Dress for the weather. In cold months, think cozy textures (wool, flannel). In heat, go for breathable (linen, cotton).
Accessories & Props
Bring what matters to you.
Accessories add flair and personality. Props help tell your story.
YES to: hats, jewelry, scarves, sunglasses, pets, instruments, bikes, vintage cars.
NO to: generic props like balloons, chalkboards, or large initials.
The Practical Stuff
•Remove your watches before the shoot, especially smart watches, as they tend to be quite big and distracting. Smartwatches as also a timestamp in your images, and we want to ideally, keep the images timeless.
•Iron your clothes. Prominent wrinkles are a distraction, and I can't touch this up in post.
•Wear shoes that are comfortable for you and compliment your outfit. If we are going hiking, pick athletic sneakers. If it's a glamorous vibe, heels or anything that makes you feel GLAM!
•I will ask you to empty your pockets—partly to avoid distractions, but mostly because I love connecting with you, and I hope you feel connected to the moment too. I carry a small bag with me where I can keep your essentials like phones and wallets, so please try to keep it minimal so everything fits. You're also welcome to bring a small bag of your own to hand over to me during the shoot.
•Hair and makeup are not a service offered by me. Some people feel the most like themselves with messy hair and no makeup, and some others feel super confident all glammed up. Feel free to do whatever will make you feel your very best!
•If you opted for an indoor shooting, tidy up the space and clean mirrors ahead of time ;)
•Last but not least: moisturize your skin before our shooting. There is absolutely nothing I can do about it during editing.
Here is why you should empty your pockets! S.O.S.
