MLP Style Guide: How to choose your photoshoot wardrobe
Alright, so you’re officially booked for your photoshoot (eeek!), and I am so excited for your session. In all the excitement, I’m sure that now you’re starting to think about the other little details… like what the heck to wear! The idea of picking out your wardrobe can feel a little daunting, but I’m here for ya.
When it comes to planning that dreamy photoshoot that floods your head once you start planning, your style is a huge part of it. The “style” that makes your photos is based on a few things. First and foremost: your connection to each other, the laughs, the love and the beautiful in-between moments. After that, your location and your outfit choices will bring everything together.
So let’s dive in. This guide is designed to help you pick the perfect style for your photoshoot.
Think Logistics
We spent time making sure that you had a great location, so let’s make sure that your wardrobe reflects the area.
Now, I love rocking heels as much as the next girl, but if you can’t move easily in them, I’d steer away from them. Besides, if we are on a sandy beach or a grassy field, they’re probably not practical. Your favorite pair of boots on an adventure session, or barefoot on the beach makes a lot more sense.
A thick knit sweater is probably not what you wear in the middle of summer if you want to avoid sweating your whole session… or if it’s time for your holiday photos in November, you don’t want to be in a t-shirt with goosebumps and shivering.
Make sure you can move comfortably
“Today, we are going to embrace whatever Mother Nature throws at us,” is one of the first things I say before every photoshoot. The wind, the rain, the adventure– we are embracing all of it for this experience.
Clothing that shows off the motion adds tons of dynamic energy into your photos. A flowy dress or skirt that catches the wind and blows behind you will have a magical effect. Letting your hair fly across your face gives you the candid, raw emotion instead of stiffness.
Color
When it comes to color choices, I am allll about the neutrals. Blacks and whites, tans and grays will never go out of style. Want to add a pop? Use additions of earthy tones (olive green and soft blues), even your denim jeans can be your color.
I recommend avoiding neon or overly bold colors. You want your love to be the focus of the images, not your neon t-shirt. That doesn’t mean you have to avoid color all together– but think of the neutral alternatives. Love blue? Use a navy or dusty blue. Orange more your style? How about rust. I suggest keeping the colors toned down for the best results.
Coordinate over matching: When you’re picking out outfits for multiple people, always focus on some coordination and contrast instead of being too matchy-matchy. This will add some depth and interest to your gallery. (The exception being if you both decide to wear all black or white.) Pro Tip: the best way to do this is pick two or three colors that are across the color wheel from each other.
Pattern
Patterns are a fun way to add some pop to your wardrobe, but they can get really distracting really quickly. The best way to use patterns in photos is to keep it small and simple.
For the sake of subtlety, I also recommend using pattern on minimal pieces. Your connection should be front and center in your images, not polka dots. (See how pretty the patterned dress is below? If his shirt was also patterned, it might be overwhelming. This is a great example.)
Accessories
If you want to add that “pop” to your style, accessorize, and then accessorize some more. Fun jewelry, your favorite jacket, or hats and scarves are such a great way to add a little trend or add that extra individuality to your gallery.
“Props” always sound a little cheesy, but think of the activities you love doing together. Do you write music, and want to play a song for your love? Bring your guitar. Do you want to cuddle up to a picnic on the beach? Grab a blanket and your charcuterie board. This can be a fun way to keep your photos candid, and make your experience unique.
Logos
I generally recommend avoiding logos. However, if the phrase fits your style, shoot me a picture and we can take a look and see if it will work for your session. If you’re a fashion guru, I’m sure you know that rules can always be broken. With that being said, a giant Nike swoosh is most likely not the style we are going for here.
Final Notes
So that was a ton of information… let’s recap.
- Stay comfortable
- Make sure your outfits make sense with the location
- Stick to neutral colors and earth tones
- Have fun accessorizing
Your photos always look the best when you are genuinely having fun with your love. Show up ready to move, play, and adventure a little bit and we will have a blast. And remember, none of these are hard and fast rules. You are always welcome and encouraged to play with these suggestions a bit and add your personal style into your gallery.
Still a little unsure?
Do not hesitate to reach out, and send me a snapshot of what you’re thinking, or for some more advice. I kind of have an eye for these things (😉), and I have the experience to know what will help your gallery turn out as dreamy as you want it to.
If it helps to get a second pair of eyes on your wardrobe thoughts, I’m here for ya!
You can always bring options. If we are moving around during your shoot, having a couple outfits to compliment the scenery and switch it up, or bringing layers for more variety never hurts! (P.S. If you decide to do this, just be prepared to get a little adventurous. You might end up changing in your car for a quick switch.)
