Need some tips on how to look your best? You're in the right place! After photographing over 500 portrait sessions, we know what works (and what doesn't.) Below are our recommendations on what to wear, what to bring, and how to prepare for your session.
GUIDE
WHAT TO WEAR
Living in the Pacific Northwest, it's tempting to go to a spray tan or tanning bed prior to your photoshoot, but we recommend that you embrace you natural skin tone. Spray tans tend to look orange and blotchy in photographs, and tanning beds often lead to sunburn rather than a summer glow.
SKIN
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If you wear glasses that do not have non-glare lenses or are that turn dark in sunlight, we recommend asking your optometrist to lend you empty frames in a matching style. Alternatively, your optometrist can simply remove your lenses before the session and replace them afterwards.
GLASSES
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For Mini-Sessions and Portfolio Sessions, bring several clothing options with you so we can help you select the styles that will photograph best. If in doubt, bring it - we love to have lots to choose from!
OPTIONS
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Wear outfits that matches your personal style and fits the "look and feel" of your finished portraits. If you have a signature brand color, consider wearing clothing in a palette that matches or compliments it.
PERSONALITY
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Select clothing that fits you well, flatters your body, and makes you feel good. Clothing that is too big or too small will tend to wrinkle and be distracting in your photographs.
CLOTHING
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In general, neutral colors (blacks, grays, blues, and whites) tend to look the most timeless and flattering for business portraits. Choose clothing in solid colors (avoid stripes, herringbone, or distracting patterns).
COLOR PALETTE
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men
what to wear
If you are wearing a tie, choose a simple pattern that won't be distracting or look dated quickly.
TIES
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If you prefer a clean-cut look, please shave prior to your session as we cannot remove a 5 o'clock shadow from your photographs.
shave
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For Mini-Sessions and Portfolio Sessions, feel free to bring a mix of casual and professional outfits. Of course, be sure to bring shoes and dark socks to match each outfit.
options
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For professional looks, a suit or jacket with button-down shirt is always a classic. A properly fitted vest with long-sleeved shirt can also look very sharp. To avoid wrinkles, please have dress shirts starched and pressed, and bring them with you.
wardrobe
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Women
what to wear
Many of our portraits include hands and feet, so you may want to treat yourself to a fresh mani/pedi a few days before your photoshoot.
nails
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Pro Tip: Eyelash extensions are the hidden secret of every celebrity ... they give a subtle and natural boost of glamour without a heavy makeup look. Lash extensions are our #1 favorite accent for photographs- try them once, and you'll understand why! Unless you are an expert, we recommend getting them applied by your makeup stylist.
eyelashes
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Professional makeup is always a great way to look your best. We recommend that you get your makeup (and possibly hair) professionally styled at Salon Maison, the Pro Club, Obadiah Salon, or your favorite personal stylist.
professional makeup
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Makeup tends to show up less in photographs than it does in real life, so we recommend using slightly more blush and lip color than usual and apply powder to control shine. Bring along your makeup for touch-ups during the session, particularly lip color.
makeup
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For professional headshots, a jacket with blouse, a great long-sleeved top, or a dress with short or long sleeves all look fabulous. In general, we recommend avoiding sleeveless dresses and tops for professional headshots, although they can be worn for more casual looks during our Portfolio or Mini-Sessions.
wardrobe
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For Mini-Sessions and Portfolio Sessions, be sure to bring shoes and jewelry to accompany each of your outfits. Accessories like scarves and hats are great for adding texture and layers.