Oregon, Washington + Beyond

Things to avoid:

• Avoid fluorescent/neon colors – they can distract from your faces, the scenery and can reflect onto your skin which can be very unflattering.

• Avoid bold/distracting patterns – don’t get me wrong I love patterns and prints, but try to keep it simple for photos.

• Avoid vertical stripes – they can be unflattering and do not translate well in photographs.

• Avoid big watches, rubber bracelets and and bracelets with words on it- These can be very distracting, especially if they do not mesh well with the other colors around. 

• Avoid matching each other – and avoid wearing the same colors, for example both wearing white tops and black bottoms. It can come across cheesy in photos. If you are wearing a light top, have the other person try wearing a darker top.

• Avoid too much make up and orange spray/self tans – If you are getting your hair and/or make up done, make sure to be specific as to what you want, and tell them to keep it natural! For spray tans, try to choose an olive tone one, and get them about a week before photos so it can fade a little.

• Avoid bringing too many choices – its good idea to bring 3 – 5 outfits to chose from but bringing your whole wardrobe isn’t necessary. 

 

Things to shoot for (pun intended): 

• Wear neutral colors – white, cream, grey, tan, black, dusty blue, caramel, are a few of my favorites. Although, keep in mind that there are neutrals of every color! Just try choosing a mild hue instead of something bright or bold.

• Wear outfits that compliment each other and your location. Let me know if you have any questions about this one :)

• Wear different textures- this one is important because it can help to break apart a solid color, and make the photos more interesting in general! 

• Wear layers – or at least bring them. If you are wearing a loose fit dress, try a belt with it. Flowy is good, but sometimes can also look unflattering if we can’t see some of your figure.

Other tips:

• If don't know what time to book your session for, and you are wanting golden hour pictures, I recommend booking your shoot about two hours before sunset (check on your Weather app ). 

• For ideas try looking at your favorite clothing store’s website and their lookbooks. May sound simple but it can be helpful.

• Here are some of my favorite clothing stores: Madewell, Free people, Zara,  ASOS,  Anthropologie, American eagle, SHEIN

• Bring comfortable shoes!  This is super important! To get an awesome view we may have to walk through rocks, hills, or just uneven ground. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes to walk in if you plan on wearing heels.

• Be on time or a little early! If you are on time or early you will have time to be relaxed, put on some lipstick, listen to music and talk before being in front of the camera. I schedule my sessions exactly at the time for optimal lighting. If you are late, you just missed out on that perfect light!

• Come prepared – bring extra shoes to walk in. If it’s winter and snowy be coats and blankets you wouldn’t mind being photographed in.

• Be confident and have a positive attitude – If you are confident it will look so much better then if you are constantly worrying or doubting yourself. I will help give direction but the best photos are the usually when you are moving, interacting and not super posed and stagnant.

I hope this was helpful! Feel free to email me with any other questions or concerns. I can’t wait to work with you! :) 

- Madie