These elements are key to the entire session and have the greatest impact on how the photos will turn out. Being comfortable in what you’re wearing is the most important thing to consider when you’re choosing an outfit. If you know you don’t like certain angles of the outfit or don’t feel comfortable sitting or walking in it, these are signs to go a different direction. We will most likely be moving a lot, and in a variety of climates and environments. If you can’t walk naturally in your shoes or sit comfortably in your pants, it’s going to be hard to be candid.

I suggest trying on your outfits at home and making sure you can comfortably sit, jump, and run (and also feel confident doing so!).

Colors vary for every setting, and are dependent on background, light, and skin tones. Typically, I suggest muted colors. This doesn't mean only neutrals! It can mean bold colors, but not highly saturated. Avoid stark primary colors, but variations of them can be beautiful. Rusty reds, mustard yellows, and forest greens are some examples of these variants. Since there is a high chance we will be shooting in a natural environment, consider using earth tones. Don't think of it as 'color coordinating' with one another, because that generally results in matching. Try to think of it as complementing one another. If one of you is in a solid tone, try pairing that with a neutral pattern, texture, or layers. 

Colors can add significantly to the mood of the photos than you may initially think. Imagine how different colors might show up in each photo, and the mood they’ll create, whether they’re in high contrast to the environment or blend in.

We are most likely shooting in an outdoor setting, which means we will be working alongside all of the elements. Consider where we will be walking, sitting, etc. Barefoot on the beach is one of my favorite looks, but barefoot on a rocky trail would be painful and unrealistic.

Temperature also matters. If it’s cold outside, anything other than bundled would be uncomfortable. But if we’re going on a 6-mile hike, too dressed up would be unrealistic. Consider our adventure and how you can style it accordingly.

Avoid loud, demanding patterns as a whole. They tend to be overly distracting and detract from the emotional impact of the imagery. If you do go for a pattern, make sure it's only one of you, and the other is simple! Too many patterns can make the image feel hectic and overwhelming. Flannels, muted prints, and earth-toned floral patterns are all great examples of things that work well. They can photograph beautifully and bring some dynamic elements to the photo. If you're unsure about your pattern, please don't hesitate to ask me.

Texture is amazing. Clothing like denim, crochet, and anything distressed all bring style and natural pattern to the photo in a subtle way, without overcomplicating it.

Continuing the conversation on shooting within our environment, or a subtle theme that we determined, it’s important to think of poses you’re drawn to as you compile inspiration.

Choosing an outfit with the thoughtfulness that both feels effortless in the landscape, and also allows us to pose and engage in a way that fits the narrative we are building.