Part I: Philosophy of Styling
Why is it important?
If you’re reading this, we must have booked a session together and I’m so excited to meet with you! Something I hear often from my clients is “Wow, I love the way their shoot turned out, I want my photos to look like that!”
There are a lot of moving parts in a photoshoot, from the location, the lighting, the photographer you choose, and their editing style, but one thing that sometimes gets overlooked is clothing. While some may say that outfits don’t make a difference, and a good photographer should be able to capture your bond together regardless of what you’re wearing, I actually only agree with the latter half of this sentence.
Yes, a skilled emotive photographer should absolutely be able to deliver you an album full of love and beautiful moments, no matter what you’re wearing! But what if your outfit could become one more moving part in the journey that takes your photos to that next level? In that respect, clothing entirely does make a difference! From choosing colors that mesh with the backdrop, to patterns that bring the focus to you rather than become a distraction, our end goal is to find something for a cohesive shoot that also makes you feel amazing!
When it comes to buying new clothing for your shoot, my philosophy is this; it’s not mandatory, especially if you already feel you have some items in your closet that fall into the spectrum of tips I’m going to be going over. My key takeaway is this: photoshoots are already an investment, so whether it’s something you already own or something you decide to purchase, we should put thought into your outfits to make sure every aspect of our shoot only adds to the overall results!
If you’re reading this, we must have booked a session together and I’m so excited to meet with you! Something I hear often from my clients is “Wow, I love the way their shoot turned out, I want my photos to look like that!”
There are a lot of moving parts in a photoshoot, from the location, the lighting, the photographer you choose, and their editing style, but one thing that sometimes gets overlooked is clothing. While some may say that outfits don’t make a difference, and a good photographer should be able to capture your bond together regardless of what you’re wearing, I actually only agree with the latter half of this sentence.
Yes, a skilled emotive photographer should absolutely be able to deliver you an album full of love and beautiful moments, no matter what you’re wearing! But what if your outfit could become one more moving part in the journey that takes your photos to that next level? In that respect, clothing entirely does make a difference! From choosing colors that mesh with the backdrop, to patterns that bring the focus to you rather than become a distraction, our end goal is to find something for a cohesive shoot that also makes you feel amazing!
When it comes to buying new clothing for your shoot, my philosophy is this; it’s not mandatory, especially if you already feel you have some items in your closet that fall into the spectrum of tips I’m going to be going over. My key takeaway is this: photoshoots are already an investment, so whether it’s something you already own or something you decide to purchase, we should put thought into your outfits to make sure every aspect of our shoot only adds to the overall results!
basic tips.
Feeling overwhelmed? Planning an outfit (or outfits!) doesn’t need to be scary; I’m going to supply you with some easy-to-follow tips, some Pinterest boards to see some visual examples in action, and a list of cute shops if you decide you’re interested in shopping around.
COLOR.
Let's Talk Maternity!
If you’re here for another session you can skip right on past! When it comes to maternity, something I like to address is the difference between one of those tight, bright spandex dresses, as opposed to a regular dress that's also bump-friendly. The problem with the cheap brightly-colored spandex dresses is that they can sometimes look a little out of place. The other problem is that many of them are skin-tight, and while some might think this is necessary to show off the bump, your average lacy sundress does this far more gracefully — Don't worry, Baby won't get lost!
My goal for our shoots is also to have you in something you would actually love to wear again (whether you were pregnant or not!) that makes you feel beautiful. Many dresses out there that aren’t necessarily marked "maternity", but rather are simply bump-friendly, meaning they have a nice flowing skirt that can easily accommodate a growing belly. Many of these cute “bump-friendly” outfits are all around us — you’ll see a bunch of examples of all sorts of ideas in my maternity Pinterest board!
Family Coordination!
If you’re a momma reading this and you’re nervous about styling your whole family, don’t be! Dressing multiple people can seem a little intimidating, but I think the link to my family Pinterest board below will really help to give a visual aid. Remember, it’s still all about the basic rules; neutrals are your friend, and maybe one or two theme colors to add a bit of a pop. The only thing to avoid is being too matchy-matchy -- for example, everyone wearing khaki pants and white polos. Rather, it’s about choosing a color palette to follow along with, but everyone still gets their own outfit.
I also like to go for casual and cozy rather than your “Easter Sunday best”, so I try to stay away from the starched button downs, stiff khaki pants or formal dresses. Almost always, simple is better. Shirtless with overalls, a little comfy romper, with little muddy toes are my favorite because I love photographing kids doing what kids do best! And remember, you can always ask me for advice, because I’m happy to send ideas, or even help pick out outfits.
COLOR.
- Neutrals: They’re such a fail-safe! This could be anything from cream, beige, grey, nudes, taupe, brown, black, and I count denims and khaki tan in here as well. (Note: I recommend creams over bright whites because sometimes these can mess with the exposure in-camera).
- Colors: Earth tones are beautiful and photograph the best! Burgundy red, rusty orange, mustard yellow, olive green, forest green, sage, teal, dusty blue, navy, mauve or dusty rose. Gold or silver look great too! When it comes to pairing these, I like to pick one or two of these as pops of color, and then pair them up with neutrals.
- One thing I like to avoid during shoots is anything that’s going to look a bit too loud or distracting; because most of my sessions tend to take place out in nature, I like to choose colors that will blend with that cohesively, rather than disrupt. For example, I don’t mind a bold, bright red in a city/urban backdrop, but out in a meadow a dull salmon or a wine red might blend a little bit better, while still being a pretty focal point. Other loud hues I try to avoid are: bright pinks, purples, aqua or cobalt blue, or any other neon, unnatural colors that might clash with the scenery.
- Textures often act beautifully as patterns! Ripped denim, canvas/linen shirts, chunky knitted sweaters, crinkled fabric, velvet, corduroy, leather, lace, shimmer, all of these things contain “patterns” within the fabric itself that add subtle interest and detail.
- For actual patterns, I typically like to keep things on the simple side: ditzy little vintage florals, embroidery on a flowy blouse, or muted colors of large plaid flannels always look great. As for what I try to avoid, usually any bold, striking patterns, especially when the patterns colors are very contrasting. Usually, color plays a role in this as well — a subtle green and black plaid is going to perform much better than a stark white and blue plaid. Stripes can sometimes work when done right, you’ll see a few examples in my boards!
- Another thing I love to incorporate into shoots are finishing touches like hats or jewelry. These can really accent a shoot by adding a bit of subtle interest in the photos. Semi-precious stones, shimmery gold, even men’s watches!
- Shoes: the one thing I try to stay away from are high heels, particularly stilettos. Most of the terrain we’ll be on will make shoes like this very difficult to walk in, and sometimes may even look a little out of place in nature. If you’re really into heels, I would recommend something a little more chunky, and maybe even an extra pair of shoes just to walk in. Otherwise my favorite shoes for sessions are boots and booties, sandals, oxfords, mules, or even just bare feet! For men I usually recommend some dressy sneakers or boots with suede, canvas, leather, etc. Again, super formal dress shoes might look a little out of place if we're out in a cornfield!
- This is a little bit more focused on dresses specifically, so if you’re a jeans and sweater gal this may not apply! Something I usually advise is to aim a little bit more towards flexible and flowy, rather than overly form-fitting or short (i.e. pencil dresses). This is because during our shoot I want you to be able to be fully-immersed — run, twirl, be picked up, sit, or lay down!
- Flowy dresses also look great with a breeze, and even more so if there’s a little transparency in the skirt to catch some light. Hello cinematic!
- The nice thing about a more flowy dress is you can do all of these things, feel comfortable, and not have to worry about how the fabric is hugging you. The last thing I want is for you to be thinking about your dress for the whole session! Another downside to short/tight dresses is that they can really limit the variety of poses we can do, and we’re not aiming to get the same angle of you in one standing pose for an hour. These can also run a greater risk of possibly highlighting certain areas about yourself that you might not want in your final photos (underwear/bra lines, etc), so by wearing a less fitted dress, we can have more fun without those concerns!
Let's Talk Maternity!
If you’re here for another session you can skip right on past! When it comes to maternity, something I like to address is the difference between one of those tight, bright spandex dresses, as opposed to a regular dress that's also bump-friendly. The problem with the cheap brightly-colored spandex dresses is that they can sometimes look a little out of place. The other problem is that many of them are skin-tight, and while some might think this is necessary to show off the bump, your average lacy sundress does this far more gracefully — Don't worry, Baby won't get lost!
My goal for our shoots is also to have you in something you would actually love to wear again (whether you were pregnant or not!) that makes you feel beautiful. Many dresses out there that aren’t necessarily marked "maternity", but rather are simply bump-friendly, meaning they have a nice flowing skirt that can easily accommodate a growing belly. Many of these cute “bump-friendly” outfits are all around us — you’ll see a bunch of examples of all sorts of ideas in my maternity Pinterest board!
Family Coordination!
If you’re a momma reading this and you’re nervous about styling your whole family, don’t be! Dressing multiple people can seem a little intimidating, but I think the link to my family Pinterest board below will really help to give a visual aid. Remember, it’s still all about the basic rules; neutrals are your friend, and maybe one or two theme colors to add a bit of a pop. The only thing to avoid is being too matchy-matchy -- for example, everyone wearing khaki pants and white polos. Rather, it’s about choosing a color palette to follow along with, but everyone still gets their own outfit.
I also like to go for casual and cozy rather than your “Easter Sunday best”, so I try to stay away from the starched button downs, stiff khaki pants or formal dresses. Almost always, simple is better. Shirtless with overalls, a little comfy romper, with little muddy toes are my favorite because I love photographing kids doing what kids do best! And remember, you can always ask me for advice, because I’m happy to send ideas, or even help pick out outfits.
Part II: Inspiration Boards
Below are the links to my Pinterest boards for maternity, casual and formal engagement, family, accessories ideas, and even an extra one for more guys’ clothing. These will help to give you a little bit of a visual of colors and textures in action, because some things are a little easier for me to just show you rather than describe! I’ve tried to curate a bunch of styles in here in the hope that everyone can see examples they love. My advice is to take note of a few looks or pieces that really speak to you, that way when looking through your closet or while shopping you can have an idea in mind of what sort of elements you’re aiming for. Also please note, most mood boards were curated for aesthetic rather than price, so don’t feel I’m trying to make you buy insane luxury pieces – I am totally the queen of glass and plastic jewelry in my own wardrobe. You may feel free to buy whatever you want to, I’m just here to supply visual ideas!
Remember, you can always ask me for help or feedback if you’re unsure of an outfit. I’m always happy to curate outfits for you as well!
Maternity: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-maternity/
Casual Couples: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-casual-engagement/
Formal Couples: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-formal-engagement/
Family and Kids: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-family-photos/
In-home Newborn: www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-newborn-home/
Guys/Masculine Fashion: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-for-the-guys/
Gals/Feminine Fashion: www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-ladies-fashion/
Accessories inspo: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/accessories-inspo/
Shoes · Hats · Jewelry · Crowns
Remember, you can always ask me for help or feedback if you’re unsure of an outfit. I’m always happy to curate outfits for you as well!
Maternity: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-maternity/
Casual Couples: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-casual-engagement/
Formal Couples: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-formal-engagement/
Family and Kids: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-family-photos/
In-home Newborn: www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-newborn-home/
Guys/Masculine Fashion: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-for-the-guys/
Gals/Feminine Fashion: www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/outfit-inspo-ladies-fashion/
Accessories inspo: https://www.pinterest.com/meofsharick/accessories-inspo/
Shoes · Hats · Jewelry · Crowns
Part III: Shop Recommendations
Now again, this is just a reminder that it is not mandatory to buy all new outfits for your shoot unless you actually want to. This is a carefully curated list of all of my absolute favorite shops and boutiques (many of them are photographer favs) if you’re looking to achieve the boho/indie and adventurous style you’ve seen in photoshoots and want to take your shoot to the next level, but aren’t quite sure where to look!
Feminine Fashion:
https://shopstevie.com/
Super Boho vibes! Great for casual or dressy couples, and bump-friendly dress options too
https://www.bohme.com/
Trendy Boho women’s fashion — Some bump friendly dresses — cute shoes, jewelry
https://balticborn.com/
Velvet, jewel-toned maxi dresses · Most are bump friendly, great for engagement too!
https://wearereclamation.com/
Beautiful designer, super dramatic options for both engagement and maternity if you want to go all out! Or, head to their rentals section on IG (@_thekindredsoul) for budget-friendly options.
https://www.jenspiratebooty.com/
Pricey, but beautiful unique boho options for dresses, kimonos, and stunning boho kids options for styled shoots
https://bellaellaboutique.com/
Very large, diverse dress selection, many can be bump-friendly
https://www.asos.com/us/women/
Great for FORMAL dresses – There’s a lot to look through, but great variety of unique dresses particularly in their “ASOS DESIGN” and “FROCK & FRILL” series!
https://roolee.com/
Love Roolee for both casual women’s fashion and dresses, bump friendly, and some kiddie fashion too!
https://lucyave.com/
Trendy women’s fashion · Bump friendly dresses · cute shoes, jewelry
https://www.fehrnvi.com/
Trendy women’s fashion · Bump friendly dresses
https://www.bridgeandburn.com/
Stunning cozy neutrals for women (and men)!
https://www.vicicollection.com/
Very flirty and flouncy dresses, bump friendly options
https://jessakae.com/
Girly, floral, country style dresses, many are bump friendly
https://www.freepeople.com/
Boho/eccentric fashion, BEAUTIFUL jewelry section!
Next: Kids!
https://chubbybubbybear.com/
Hands down, some of the cutest boho baby clothing I've EVER seen. Affordable too!
https://threepeasbabyboutique.com/
Similar style as Chubby Bubby Bear, also obsessed with their style.
https://reveriethreads.com/
Love love love: Trendy baby and toddlers, boho
https://katequinn.com/
Adorable vintage/nature patterned onesies (stuff for mom and dad too!)
https://thesimplefolk.co/
Minimalist Baby&Kids folk style
https://andostores.com/
Modern&minimalist baby and kids fashion
https://www.bohemianmama.com/
Trendy kids fashion (and babies) from curated boutiques
https://ryleeandcru.com/
Cozy adorable kids and baby clothing
https://www.wildwawashop.com/
Sweet cottage style rompers and sweaters (kids/babies)
https://oeufnyc.com/
Adorable garden&nature themed kids and baby clothing!
https://shop.misha-and-puff.com/
Three words – Tiny popcorn sweaters!!
https://gogentlynation.com/
More minimalist kids
https://brixtonphoenix.com/
Modern&chic newborn aesthetics
https://www.joyfolie.com/
Girls (children) dresses and mom’s dresses
Masculine fashion & General Stores
FOR THE DUDES: Personal favorites are Bridge & Burn, H&M, Express, Levis, Bonobos, prAna, Madewell, Banana Republic, American Eagle, and TARGET!!! Great for Ladies too, and sometimes kids!
Feminine Fashion:
https://shopstevie.com/
Super Boho vibes! Great for casual or dressy couples, and bump-friendly dress options too
https://www.bohme.com/
Trendy Boho women’s fashion — Some bump friendly dresses — cute shoes, jewelry
https://balticborn.com/
Velvet, jewel-toned maxi dresses · Most are bump friendly, great for engagement too!
https://wearereclamation.com/
Beautiful designer, super dramatic options for both engagement and maternity if you want to go all out! Or, head to their rentals section on IG (@_thekindredsoul) for budget-friendly options.
https://www.jenspiratebooty.com/
Pricey, but beautiful unique boho options for dresses, kimonos, and stunning boho kids options for styled shoots
https://bellaellaboutique.com/
Very large, diverse dress selection, many can be bump-friendly
https://www.asos.com/us/women/
Great for FORMAL dresses – There’s a lot to look through, but great variety of unique dresses particularly in their “ASOS DESIGN” and “FROCK & FRILL” series!
https://roolee.com/
Love Roolee for both casual women’s fashion and dresses, bump friendly, and some kiddie fashion too!
https://lucyave.com/
Trendy women’s fashion · Bump friendly dresses · cute shoes, jewelry
https://www.fehrnvi.com/
Trendy women’s fashion · Bump friendly dresses
https://www.bridgeandburn.com/
Stunning cozy neutrals for women (and men)!
https://www.vicicollection.com/
Very flirty and flouncy dresses, bump friendly options
https://jessakae.com/
Girly, floral, country style dresses, many are bump friendly
https://www.freepeople.com/
Boho/eccentric fashion, BEAUTIFUL jewelry section!
Next: Kids!
https://chubbybubbybear.com/
Hands down, some of the cutest boho baby clothing I've EVER seen. Affordable too!
https://threepeasbabyboutique.com/
Similar style as Chubby Bubby Bear, also obsessed with their style.
https://reveriethreads.com/
Love love love: Trendy baby and toddlers, boho
https://katequinn.com/
Adorable vintage/nature patterned onesies (stuff for mom and dad too!)
https://thesimplefolk.co/
Minimalist Baby&Kids folk style
https://andostores.com/
Modern&minimalist baby and kids fashion
https://www.bohemianmama.com/
Trendy kids fashion (and babies) from curated boutiques
https://ryleeandcru.com/
Cozy adorable kids and baby clothing
https://www.wildwawashop.com/
Sweet cottage style rompers and sweaters (kids/babies)
https://oeufnyc.com/
Adorable garden&nature themed kids and baby clothing!
https://shop.misha-and-puff.com/
Three words – Tiny popcorn sweaters!!
https://gogentlynation.com/
More minimalist kids
https://brixtonphoenix.com/
Modern&chic newborn aesthetics
https://www.joyfolie.com/
Girls (children) dresses and mom’s dresses
Masculine fashion & General Stores
FOR THE DUDES: Personal favorites are Bridge & Burn, H&M, Express, Levis, Bonobos, prAna, Madewell, Banana Republic, American Eagle, and TARGET!!! Great for Ladies too, and sometimes kids!
