There is a lot that goes into making beautiful photos. I believe it’s a pie chart of components, pieces that include lighting, location, color palette, wardrobe, emotion, attitude, technical skills, and gear. There are parts of it that I can control– like my knowledge, my gear, I can suggest the best time of day and even good locations. But then there is the planning that lands on my clients– They have the capacity to make a good shoot become an incredible shoot. I really want to help educate people so that they are the HAPPIEST they can be with their session, finished photos, and overall experience!
So that is why I send a portrait style guide to my clients now. It’s a resource of information to help them think about things that can make their shoot stunning. It talks about clothes, what looks flattering, color pallets, how to coordinate with your partner or family. BUT. I don’t want people to get the impression that they have to spend a ton of money to look GREAT in their photos!!
I truly believe that a little bit of prep work goes a long way. To illustrate this, I decided to record a video of my friend Emily and myself going to the thrift store with a $15 budget for clothes and props. I know that Fit&Flare looks soo good on camera, so that is what I kept in mind as we tried on outfits. Fit&Flare can be high waisted jeans, a dress cinched in the middle, a skirt with a shirt tucked in– these just tend to be flattering on most body types!! Especially on camera! Then I had the actual session filmed as well so you could go behind the scenes with me and get a glimpse of what a session looks like!!
We went over our budget by $2, but we ended up with a green tunic, shoes, earrings, a hat, a tool skirt, and white shirt. I hope you guys feel inspired to rummage through your closet for your own hidden gems, or hit up your local Habitat for Humanity! Don’t get discouraged thinking you need a ton of money to look like a million bucks. Seriously, it’s all in the prep work and forethought.
