Why is style important?
Well I'm so glad you asked, putting this plainly, we are creating art. When creating art we are taking so many things into perspective to create a composition that flows, This can be color and value, proximity, texture, balance, contrast, pattern, and unity. Choice in clothing can play a big roll in some of these components in composition. My goal with this post is to guide you in a direction where you feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing while creating a composition that flows.
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Color and Value
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Color Palette Ideas
Below are some color palettes that might help you better visualize how to pair neutral colors with one or two accent colors.
Do you want to see more options?
Well, here are some more colors to help you choose.
Neutral Colors Options
Choose One or Two Neutrals Colors from above or something close to this color palette guide
Accent Colors Set One
and then also choose an accent color or two from set this set above (set one) Accent colors are optional. Just remember to choose complementing colors.
Accent Colors Set Two
or one or two accent colors from this set above (set two).
Couples with multiple outfits!
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Pack an additional laid-back ensemble, perhaps a pair of denim pants paired with a cozy sweater. Also, consider bringing a more sophisticated attire, such as an elegant, billowing dress coupled with trousers and a tailored jacket. Opting for these selections will ensure a diverse range of looks in your photo collection. It's always wise to wear the outfit you love the most last. Typically, it takes a moment to relax and feel at ease when being photographed, so the shots you cherish the most are likely to occur towards the end of the session.
Families!
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When bringing the littles to your photo session, expect to be engaging with them through various activities such as moving, sitting, or kneeling to be at their eye level. Dresses of any length can be beautiful, yet for those with young children in their photos, opting for a dress or skirt that reaches the knee or longer will allow easier movement with your little ones. For the kids choice of clothing, it's important to avoid attire that limits their mobility or outfits that may cause discomfort for them.
Shoes Matter!
Your shoes will be in your portraits, too! So make sure that you like the way they look with your outfit. Heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous. Closed-toed heels look great on camera because they carry out the line of your leg down to your toe. If your toes are showing in a peep-toe heel, you might want to schedule a pedicure before your session so you don’t regret letting your toes show. These little tricks make all the difference!
Accessories!
Enhance your photos with the right accessories—statement necklaces add a pop, while belts, bracelets, and earrings create visual interest without overwhelming. For a romantic vibe, consider fresh floral crowns for an enchanting touch. Perfect for adding depth and making group photos uniquely captivating
Makeup
Makeup for photography sessions is not solely focused on enhancing natural beauty or individual features; it plays a critical role in crafting a visual style that aligns with the specific theme of the photoshoot, ensuring models look their absolute best under diverse lighting scenarios. This guide offers essential photography makeup tips, providing expert advice on selecting and applying the best makeup for photoshoots. Whether you're dealing with studio lights or natural daylight, these makeup guidelines for photographers will help you understand how to apply makeup for photo lighting effectively, ensuring stunning results in every shot.
Please keep reading...
Cheeks and lips
Gentle contouring can help define the face's structure. However, avoid heavy contouring as it can look unnatural in photos, especially in natural light. Choose a lip color that complements the overall makeup look. Matte and cream finishes often photograph better than glossy ones, which can reflect light and distract from the overall face.
Color and Eyes
Eyes can lose definition under camera flashes or studio lighting. Use eyeliner and mascara to define the eyes. Waterproof versions can help avoid smudging or running under hot lights. Neutral and warm eyeshadows generally photograph well and help in accentuating the eyes without overpowering. Consider the subject's eye color and skin tone when selecting shades.
Finish
Opt for a matte finish to reduce shine. Cameras, particularly under bright lights, can accentuate shine and oiliness. If the skin naturally looks too shiny, use a mattifying primer or powder. Makeup products with SPF can reflect flash photography, leading to a white cast on the face. It's better to use these products sparingly or not at all during photoshoots.
Face Framing for Hair
Frame the Face: Choose styles that frame your face well. For example, a blowout for straight hair or defined curls for textured hair can enhance your facial features. If using hair accessories, choose subtle ones that don’t distract from the face. Think simple pins or a sleek headband.
Sticking to the basics
Ensure hair looks healthy and shiny. A deep conditioning treatment a few days before the shoot can add gloss and reduce frizz. Styles that allow hair to move freely tend to look more dynamic and natural in photos. Soft curls or waves add texture and interest. It's best not to make drastic hair changes right before your shoot. Stick with a style you know looks good on you.
Don't forget!
Make sure your dress is impeccably prepared for your photoshoot by steaming it thoroughly to remove any fold lines or wrinkles, a crucial step in photoshoot outfit preparation. Additionally, remove all tags and cut off ribbon hanger straps to avoid unintended appearances in your photos, ensuring a flawless look from every angle. Before the day of the shoot, try on the dress with the underwear you plan to wear to confirm there are no gaps or visible lines, an essential tip for preparing your dress for a photoshoot. These steps help eliminate dress wrinkles and lines for photography, ensuring your outfit looks its best under the camera's gaze.
Prepping your man!
For an elegant and polished men's look in portrait photography, opt for tailored trousers and closed-toe shoes. This ensemble focuses attention upward, emphasizing facial features for a striking effect in your professional photoshoot. Choose well-fitted dress pants or solid-colored trousers for a sharp image, while premium denim can offer a stylish, yet sophisticated, casual look. To ensure the viewer's eye is drawn to the right places, steer clear of distracting patterns like pinstripes or plaids, and mini
Getting the littles ready!
Preparing kids for photoshoots involves a mix of practical steps and creative engagement to ensure they are comfortable, happy, and ready to shine in front of the camera. Start by choosing outfits that are not only photogenic but also comfortable and familiar to the child, to help them feel at ease. Discussing the photoshoot in advance can also help to build excitement and reduce any nervousness. Incorporating their favorite toys or props can be a great way to keep their interest peaked and capture genuine smiles. It's essential to schedule the shoot around their routine, preferably when they are well-rested and fed, to avoid any crankiness. Finally, keeping the atmosphere light and playful is key; a few practice shots or a game can help kids acclimate to the camera and the setting, turning the photoshoot into a fun experience rather than a chore. This approach not only helps in getting those perfect shots but also ensures the photoshoot is a memorable and enjoyable event for the children.
Wrapping this all up!
I want this guide to make you feel you can wear what you want and be yourself. In creating this, I hope you can take your favorite clothing items that you know, love, and feel amazing in to make a composition that flows beautifully on your walls and makes beautiful memories that you can forever look back on! If there are any questions I can answer, please reach out, I'm here to help and guide you. I want to offer specialized guidance for those looking for specific color palettes in different seasons and locations; if you feel in need of this, I am just a text message, email, or phone call away. Happy styling!
