What to Wear

Clothing is not a costume. It should feel like an extension of who you already are — elevated, comfortable, and yours.

The most common question I receive before portrait sessions isn't about location or timing. It's about what to wear. And while I'm not a stylist, I've photographed enough sessions to know that the right choice in clothing can quietly transform an image.

Here's how I think about it.

Lean neutral, lean textured.

Bold prints compete with the photograph. Solid colors — ivory, stone, warm white, charcoal, olive, rust — tend to age well and photograph beautifully in almost any light. Texture is your friend: linen, cashmere, denim, raw silk. They catch light in a way that flat synthetic fabrics don't.

Coordinate, don't match.

If you're photographing as a family or couple, the goal is visual harmony, not uniformity. Choose a palette — two or three tones that live comfortably together — and dress within it. One person in ivory, another in warm beige, a child in a soft blush. You'll look cohesive without looking costume-y.

Dress for the location.

A wildflower field calls for something soft and flowing. A downtown setting might carry a more structured look. Think about where we'll be and what feels natural there. If you're unsure, send me a message — I'm happy to look at your options before the session.

Wear something you can move in.

This matters more than most people expect. We'll be walking, sitting on the ground, spinning, laughing. If you're uncomfortable or constantly adjusting, the camera will catch it. Choose something that feels like a second skin.

A note on footwear.

Shoes appear in more photos than you'd think. Avoid anything that's distracting unless it's intentional — chunky sneakers in an otherwise elegant look, for example, can feel jarring. Neutral, low-key footwear almost always works.

And finally: bring something to change into. Even a simple top swap gives us variety and lets you exhale between looks.