Styling 101: Wardrobe Tips from a Fashion Photographer

The Art of Fashion Styling: Transforming Your Photoshoot with Expert Tips

In the world of fashion photography, styling is a powerful tool that can transform a photoshoot from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're preparing for a portrait session or a branding photoshoot, incorporating great fashion styling can make all the difference in how your images turn out. In my 10+ years as a San Francisco fashion photographer and a 20 year career in the fashion industry, I've learned a lot about what outfits do and don't work in photo shoots. Let's explore how fashion styling elevates a photoshoot and provide practical tips for styling yourself to achieve the best results.

Coordinating outfits is a key piece in being photographed with another person. In both of these sets the models wore outfits that were unique but complimentary. The posing allows each outfit to stand out without them blending together.

The Impact of Fashion Styling on your Branding Photoshoot

Fashion styling is more than just selecting outfits; it's about creating a visual story that resonates with the intended audience. In editorial and commercial photography, stylists play a crucial role in setting the tone, mood, and narrative of the shoot. By carefully choosing clothing, accessories, and props, they ensure that every element complements the overall theme and vision. This meticulous attention to detail is what makes high-end fashion images stand out in publications.

Tips for Styling Yourself for a Photoshoot

Whether you're stepping in front of the camera for a professional portrait or branding session, here are some tips to help you dream into a creative vision and elevate your self expression with intentionality:

The soft draping of the shawl and the statement necklace highlight the subject’s creative side and allude to her study of different healing modalities. The couch gives the photo an approachable vibe, perfect for marketing her work as a somatic therapist

The look here is polished and professional, with a twist. This client teaches at Stanford University, which made the busy quad a great backdrop for our photoshoot. Her work also involves psychedelic research, referenced by the colorful pattern on her shirt

1. Understand the Purpose of the Shoot:

   Before selecting your outfits, consider the goal of the photoshoot. Are you aiming for a professional look, something casual, or perhaps a bold, fashion-forward statement? What are you trying to say about yourself in the photos? Understanding the purpose will guide your styling choices and help ensure the final images align with your vision. When photographing editorial shoots I often begin creating a mood board with 3 adjectives that describe the energetics of the fashion editorial. These can help shape the fashion photo shoot as I choose the models, fashion designers, beauty stylists, and photography studio to bring the vision to life and create captivating images.

2. Choose a Cohesive Color Palette:

   Selecting a cohesive color palette can create harmony in your photos. Consider colors that complement your skin tone and resonate with the theme of the shoot. Neutral tones are versatile and timeless, while vibrant colors can add energy and personality. Color can be implemented with the studio background, articles of clothing, makeup, or accessories. It can be a subtle pop that creates a through line in a series of images in an editorial fashion photoshoot, or it can be the central theme of a photo story.

3. Pay Attention to Fit and Silhouette:

   Proper fit and silhouette can significantly impact how you appear in photos. Tailored clothing that flatters your body shape can enhance your confidence and ensure you look your best. Avoid overly baggy clothing pieces, as they can be unflattering on camera. Fit clothing ahead of time, ideally a couple of weeks before your photo session so you have time to secure the right clothing pieces or get professional alterations when necessary. Be sure to iron garments ahead of the photoshoot and bring them to the studio on hangers. If you need to pin clothing to fit, do this ahead of time and know where the pins will need to go. Take photos of your fully styled looks before the session. Bring safety pins with you. My goal as your style guide is to have you plan all of your photoshoot outfits ahead of time, so that on shoot day we can focus on creating compelling images rather than trying to fit your outfits or make sloppy garments work.

4. Incorporate Accessories Thoughtfully:

   Accessories can add interest and personality to your look. Choose a few key pieces that complement your outfit, used thoughtfully. Consider the role they play in the story you want to tell. For example, a nature theme photoshoot can be enhanced with subtle natural elements like crystals, metals, and earth tones. A fashion shoot with a futuristic theme could be enhanced fashion pieces featuring geometric lines, and elements of surrealism.

5. Consider the Location and Background:

   When planning your outfit, consider the location and background of your photoshoot. The setting should enhance, not detract from, your look. For instance, a street style shoot might call for bold, eye-catching outfits, while a nature setting might work best with softer, more organic tones. Pay attention to color, both in your outfit and the background. A photo session in an indoor studio will give more time and space for outfit changes, whereas a shoot on location requires you complete your clothing styling ahead of time.

6. Practice Posing and Expressions:

   Styling is not just about clothing; it also involves how you carry yourself and how the garment moves in response to your movements. Practice different poses and expressions in front of a mirror to find what feels natural and flattering. A confident posture can elevate your entire look.

7. Stay True to Your Personal Style:

   While it’s important to consider the theme and purpose of the shoot, staying true to your personal style is key. Authenticity shines through in photos, so choose outfits that reflect who you are and make you feel comfortable to express more of yourself in a photoshoot. There is no right or wrong color to use, just work collaboratively with your photographer to use color intentionally and artfully.

   A professional stylist works to enhance the beauty of their clients. Being your own fashion stylist means choosing the details that go into a photoshoot as tools to further express yourself and make a statement to your audience. With this understanding, you can turn a piece of clothing into an essential aspect of the story you are telling in your content creation.

Using a bold color like yellow as a background color gives this monochromatic outfit choice a whole new energy, perfect for this branding photoshoot for a marketing CEO. The vibe is playful and bold.

Wearing all black on a white background draws the viewer’s eye right to the subject, perfect for this photoshoot where we created portraits to use on dating profiles.

Embrace the self expression and artistry of being your own clothing stylist

Fashion styling is a transformative element in photography that marries creativity with purpose. By incorporating thoughtful styling into your portrait or branding photoshoot, you can ensure that your images not only look polished but also tell a compelling story. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to achieving beautiful photos that capture both style and substance.

Wearing all black allows music artist Waterstrider to stand out against the colorful sunset and skyline

The gossamer quality of the model’s shirt adds to the feeling of softness captured with even lighting, a foreground diffuser, and her expression

Elevate Your Personal Branding Photoshoot: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the digital age, personal branding has become a vital tool for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to stand out in a crowded marketplace. One key element of personal branding is the personal branding photoshoot. A well-executed photoshoot can help you produce visuals that communicate your personality, professionalism, and the unique value you bring to your field. As a personal branding photographer, I wanted to share with you some tips for getting the most out of a personal branding photoshoot.

Define Your Brand Story

Before you even think about the photoshoot, take the time to clarify your personal brand. What do you want to convey to your audience? What are your core values, skills, and unique qualities? Your photos should tell a visual story that aligns with your brand's message and identity.

Plan Your Wardrobe

Your choice of clothing is crucial in a personal branding photoshoot. Select outfits that reflect your brand and make you feel confident. Consider the color palette, style, and accessories that align with your image. Your outfit can play a big role in conveying your personality, so take this opportunity to be expressive and catch the attention of prospective clients. As a brand photographer, I have a specific style of shooting studio portraits for my branding clients. I can photograph someone on the same background with the same lighting and see the what a big difference a cool outfit can make. Wear something interesting and elevated for a better end result.

Find the Right Photographer

Investing in a professional photographer is a must for a successful personal branding photoshoot. Look for a photographer who specializes in personal branding and has a portfolio that aligns with your vision. Schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas, style, and expectations.

Location Scouting

Choose locations that resonate with your brand and message. Whether it's an urban environment, a rustic setting, or a modern studio, the location should complement your brand's aesthetic. Discuss potential locations with your photographer and consider factors like lighting and accessibility.

Lighting Matters

Lighting can make or break your photoshoot. Natural light often works best, providing a soft and flattering glow. Your branding photographer will advise you where the light is the most flattering.

Props and Accessories

Consider using props and accessories that enhance your brand story. These could be items related to your profession, hobbies, or anything that adds depth and storytelling to your images. Props can help convey a specific message or create a unique atmosphere.

Work with a Makeup and Hair Stylist

Professional makeup and hair styling can make a significant difference in your photos. A makeup artist and hairstylist can help you look your best and ensure you present a polished and consistent appearance throughout the photoshoot.

Pose and Express Emotion

Practice in front of a mirror before the photoshoot, and come prepared with at least 4 poses you can use in the photoshoot. Try something new with each camera click, giving variety and a natural quality to the shoot. The more you keep moving, the less in your head you will be, and this is where the magic happens. A good photographer will pose you and refine the poses you offer, but empower yourself to bring something to the table here that is authentic to you. That way you ensure that the images are really resonant with what you envision.

Create a Shot List

To ensure that you capture all the necessary shots, create a shot list in advance. This list should include various poses, outfits, and locations you want to include in your photoshoot. Share it with your photographer to discuss your goals for the photoshoot, and to be sure you’re on the same page going into the shoot day. It will serve as a valuable reference during the shoot and talking about it ahead of time will ensure that everyone is prepared for the photoshoot and expectations are realistic.

Relax and Enjoy the Process

The most successful personal branding photoshoots happen when you're relaxed and having fun. Trust your photographer's expertise and guidance, and allow your personality to shine through. Remember that a natural, confident demeanor will help you connect with your audience on a deeper level.

The best thing you can do in a photoshoot is to let go of how you think you should look, and be yourself.

Promote Your Brand

Once you have your stunning personal branding photos, it's time to put them to good use. Share them on your website, social media profiles, and use them on your marketing materials. Your well-executed photos will help you connect with your audience and leave a lasting impression.

Elevating your personal branding photoshoot requires careful planning, attention to detail, and collaboration with skilled professionals. With a clear brand story, the right wardrobe, a talented photographer, and careful consideration of location, lighting, and props, you can capture images that authentically represent your personal brand. Remember to relax, enjoy the process, and leverage your stunning photos to enhance your personal brand's impact in your industry.

Are you ready to book your personal branding photoshoot? If so I’d love to hear from you!

8 Photoshoot Posing Tips

The number one request I get from new clients is to help them with posing. Posing for a photoshoot can be a little intimidating, especially if you're not used to being in front of the camera. With the right mindset and a few tips, you can make the experience enjoyable, capture some great shots, and tap into the beauty of your own self expression.

Set Your intention

What is your purpose in doing this photoshoot? What goal is it moving you towards? Connecting to your purpose can support you through challenging feelings that come up during the creative process.

be calm and confident

Confidence is key when it comes to posing for photos, so take some time to relax and get into the right mindset. Take a deep breath, smile, and remind yourself that you are beautiful just the way you are, and that the photoshoot is about more to you than just the way you look.

Model Salimatu in a relaxed pose that exudes confidence while still looking natural.

Communication is key

it's important to communicate with your photographer. Let them know what you are comfortable with and what you are not comfortable with. Be honest about any insecurities you may have, and ask for their advice on how to pose to accentuate your best features. Your photographer is there to help you get the best possible shots, so don't be afraid to ask for their input.

Commit to the process

Focus on the photoshoot and the direction you’re receiving from the photographer. Avoid responding to discomfort with fidgeting or giving up. Remember your intention and commit to the process.

Practice posing ahead of time

When it comes to posing, there are a few basic rules to follow. First, stand up straight with your shoulders rolled down and back, engaging your core. This gives length to your neck, definition to your waist, and a solid base from which you can experiment and try different things. Next, find your best angles by trying to create different silhouettes with your body in front of a mirror. Experiment with different poses and angles to see what works best for you. Try turning your body slightly to the side, rotating your shoulders, tilting your head, or creating different shapes with your arms and legs. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final result.

The way this photo is posed creates shapes and lines that add interest for the viewer, while still focusing on the intention: the love and connection of the couple.

Fine tune the details

When I talk about being comfortable in front of the camera, I mean emotionally, not physically. Effective posing usually requires tensing muscles and holding postures for awhile. Some details I suggest paying attention to in your mirror practice time:

• Keep a small amount of space between your arm and body. This will show off the true shape of your arm rather than flattening it and making it look bigger. If your goal is to make the arm look bigger, such as in a fitness photo, try pressing it against your body.

• Flex your wrists whenever posing with your arms involved. Even a slight flex is the finishing touch to create an elegant pose. To better understand this, check out how your limp wrist looks in the mirror.

• When you’re posing in a chair, turn your ankle in slightly. Think: Radio City Rockettes or 1950’s bathing beauties.

• Practice creating triangle shapes with your arms and legs. Notice in your mirror practice how you can similarly create triangles with negative space.

When you put it all together, you can get a pose like this!

Use your face

Another tip is to focus on your facial expressions. Smiling is always a great option, but don't be afraid to mix it up with different expressions. Try experimenting with different moods and add a serious, sultry, or playful expression for some variety to your photos. Stay in one mood for awhile during your shoot, but try several different expressions of it before moving on to a different energy.

Interactive Photoshoot outfits

Let’s talk outfits! Choose clothing that flatters your body and fits well. Avoid anything too baggy and anything that flares at the waist, as this can be unflattering in photos. Opt for something that allows you freedom to move around. Accessorize with jewelry, hats, scarves, or other items to add some interest to your shots. Think of having outfits that give you something to interact with during a photoshoot, like a skirt with which you can create some movement. Also, think of something that adds additional interest to the photo. I suggest avoiding anything too “everyday.” Think of the photoshoot as a special occassion, and elevate your presentation.

Not only does this red dress draw your attention to the subject, is a big part of what creates the dramatic mood of this photo.

In conclusion, posing for a photoshoot can be a fun and rewarding experience if you approach it with the right mindset and follow a few basic rules. Be confident, communicate with your photographer, find your best angles, focus on your facial expressions, and choose the right outfits and accessories. With these tips, you can have the skills needed to share your amazing self in a portrait or branding photoshoot. When you’re ready to rock it in front of the camera, I hope you’ll reach out to me for a photoshoot!

Practicing what I preach in a self portrait photoshoot

Startup Stir in San Francisco

Startup Stir has opened a chapter in San Francisco, and I'm so stoked to be photographing their events! They have created a monthly networking and enrichment event series aimed at empowering entrepreneurs. Last month's event featured a dynamite and eclectic panel of all women speakers, including social media marketer Angie Hilum and Kali Williams of Hack the Patriarchy and The Opinionated Woman podcast, all offering guidance in the challenges women experience on the entrepreneurial path, and how they've taken them on to become successful in the Bay Area. As an entrepreneur myself, it was so helpful to understand the landscape of business through the eyes of successful females, and to feel supported among such strong and creative women. 

When people come together to educate and inspire each other, a whole new kind of community is formed. It is one that fosters safety and trust without the competition and strategic sabotage so prevalent in the business world. The work before us to accomplish our goals becomes more manageable when we know we're not alone, and we're given the tools to navigate it one piece at a time. The resulting fun was inspiring, uplifting, practical, and empowering.

Startup Stir has another event coming up May 18th at the fabulous General Assembly space in downtown SF. You can learn more about them and stay up to date on their upcoming events in San Francisco and Boston via their Facebook page here. You can also learn more about the co-working and events happening at General Assembly at their website. Here are some photos of the last event. I hope to catch you next week for another inspiring evening!

Valentine's Day wedding on Commodore Cruise Lines

A winter wedding in Northern California is a risky proposition, but the sun shone shone through an uncharacteristically rainy season for Hayley and Arthur's Valentine's Day wedding on Commodore Cruise Lines. What a sweet and loving couple! One thing I love about being a wedding photographer is seeing how couples celebrate their love and bring together their families. It's hugely inspiring. 

This couple had been together for over 7 years, but planned their whole wedding in just a few weeks. When the time is right, just go for it. A great option for accommodating a last minute wedding without sacrificing style and character is to book your wedding on Commodore Cruise Line. They have different size options to accommodate large and small wedding parties, and you can book any day of the week...a great option if your family and friends reside nearby. The wedding begins with a dockside ceremony, and then you celebrate onboard with dinner and dancing, all while enjoying stunning bay views and cruising the open water. If San Francisco's city lights and beautiful bridges weren't spectacular enough, throw in a full moon and lunar eclipse in Leo. The love and magic had everyone shining that night.

Congratulations Hayley and Arthur!

Winter Wonderland

I visited winter this week for a ski trip in Tahoe and had a romance with the landscape. So much stillness and poise demonstrated by the simplicity of frost on trees. The animal of me wanted to touch and hold all of it, to run through wildly in a demonstration of my own passion. My fingers dissolved the perfect crystals I saw on pine needles. My steps sunk many feet into soft snow. So I listened to the trees and they told me "Tread lightly. Lay still. Experience cold." I let myself lay feather light, upward gazing, teary eyed, so silent. I let my fingers turn painful and my legs wet as my heat merged with the frost. Mesmerized by the blinding white sea atop the dark and dense mountain earth, I felt the medicine of this cold and this quiet, the transmutation of heaviness and complexity to something light, clear, simple, holy.
I'm back home to Marin flowers blooming in January, but a piece of me is still dancing in white swirls of snow. Thank you, winter.

New setup and a sneak peek

I wrapped up 2016 with the final piece I needed to complete my kit, the Sigma 24-70mm 2.8. I'm loving this new glass! I used to shoot with a zoom lens as my primary, but switched to working with fixed focal lengths as I explored wider apertures and the dreamy feeling of bokeh created with my Nikon 85 1.4. After having my gear stolen last year, my wide-portrait zoom was the one I hadn't yet replaced. I don't know I did without it for so long! The versatility offered really allows for a faster shoot and more variety. 

As the year started I bought myself a very special gift...a studio background setup! I haven't done studio work since 2007, and am really excited to see how my studio work develops. 

Here's a sneak peek from my first shoot with the new gear: Jason Simms for Ratchet+Wrench magazine.

Best Wedding Photographers in Oakland List!

A big thank you to the team at Expertise for the shout out on their list of the best wedding photographers in Oakland! I love what I do and it means a lot to get some love in the local scene for what I've been dreaming together here.

Now that wedding season has wound down and the hectic holidays have passed, I'm excited to be editing more of the weddings I shot this year and will be sharing them with you soon! Stay tuned...

Best Wedding
Photographers
in Oakland2016

Ring the bells that still can ring

Elisabeth and Sergio's wedding at San Francisco City Hall began with a swarm of friends and loved ones unexpectedly showing up to support and celebrate their last minute nuptials. What was to be a handful of family members turned out to be a few dozen glittering faces, and what was to be a quiet Monday ceremony was full of laughter and cheers.

The wedding, a week post Election Day, was just what we all needed. For the couple, it was to be reminded of the love that creates safety, support, and purpose in this ever unpredictable world. For me, to experience once again that above all that is happening, our experience is so much about where we show up and what we align to in all the big and small ways we serve the world. The smiles, the falling tears, the caring of children, the little ways they honored their ancestry and cultural traditions...it was like God was tapping me on the shoulder and saying "Look here. This is what is real right now. This is all there is for you right now. Be here now."

The officiant opened with a quote from the recently departed Leonard Cohen, my all time favorite songwriter. I met Leonard Cohen on an iconic night during arguably the most formative and memorable time in my life. It was the culmination of an era of exploration, magic, dismantling the old conditioning, and opening to endless possibility. I found myself hugging my idol on a perfect downtown Chicago night, as dizzy from the music as from the moment. Coming back to it now feels almost prayerful. These precious, sacred moments. They go by so fast. 

Thank you for having me along for the ride, and making me feel at home in the midst of all of the people passing by. Through all of the generosity I am ever moved to find myself exactly where I need to be. Photographing the ceremony is my favorite part of being a wedding photographer, so it's a pleasure to share a post focusing on those. Really, I shoot so many it is hard to choose which to share. I love the nuances of emotion that make each photo unique.

"Ring the bells that still can ring

Forget your perfect offering

There is a crack in everything

That's how the light gets in."

On first looks and wedding jitters

Therese and Brian's San Ramon wedding was a beautifully classic affair. The details were so stunning for this wedding: simple, polished, and elegant touches that made the whole day shine. 

The bride was so very nervous throughout the morning as everyone quietly prepared her for her ceremony. It was beautiful to see how she melted into smiles when she got the chance to be with her groom. The nerves were met with loving support and it was beautiful to see her come out of her shell. All the stress of planning and organizing can definitely get to you, and in the end we do all of this work to celebrate the love!

If I could offer one piece of advice to someone planning their wedding it would be to find a way to connect with each other throughout the day of your ceremony. It can do so much to bring you both back to the love. The vows and commitments made on your wedding are of a life changing significance, it's true. The pressure can feel amplified with family visiting from far away, old friends coming to honor your new chapter, religious officials and the whole nine! In the end, all of these serious things are just there to anchor the sweetness, the lightness, the joy, and they harmony between two people. Some couples opt for a first look before the ceremony to see each other for the first time on their wedding day somewhere private, without the eyes of everyone on them. I have seen that this moment can do wonders for dissolving the wedding jitters, as you get a chance to laugh together and reunite with the support you have from your partner before entering into the ceremony. For those couples who want to meet their spouse-to-be on the altar for the first time that day, exchanging a wedding gift and note is a beautiful way to express your sentiments at the moment when your loved one will need to hear it most. 

Here's to Therese and Brian, and to coming to that magic moment of feeling yourself, feeling your love, and feeling the beauty of your wedding!

Venue: The Bridges Golf Club, San Ramon

Groom gets ready with his best man

Shoes by Calvin Klein

Shoes by Badly Mischka

Therese looking fierce and saucy

Amazing floral cupcake tower wedding cake!