What would you like to wear?

Most women seem to get stumped with this question because let's face it, we never really know what we're going to wear to anything let alone pictures of ourselves. Sometimes we need that friend's honest advice or a sibling's annoying push for the fancy dress to help us look out best (I am that annoying sibling to my sister Brittany ;).

Real talk:

Have you ever looked in the mirror before going out.. loved your hair and felt amazing but later that same night, looked at a phone picture and thought what the heck happened? yea. me too.

I've been photographing women of all ages for almost 9 years now and one thing I have always discovered is that the outfit is EVERYTHING in camera. Well that and hair and makeup... but the outfit sets the entire mood of an image so choose wisely. I want you to have the most amazing pictures so that's why I'm being honest with you. I'm here to spill all my secrets in what I have learned about styling a photoshoot. If you choose to be photographed by me you'll get up to 5 outfit changes so let's break it down.

1. COLOR

I like to tell clients to choose something light and then something dark to begin building your "set wardrobe".

LIGHT colors mean white, blush, cream, grey or nude shades.

DARK colors mean black, navy or charcoal.

Once you have the basic light & dark outfits organized, you can move on to adding colored pieces to your set wardrobe. Here are some ideas of colors that photograph well. :

• Jewel tones-Think deep pigmented colors like emerald, amethyst, and citrine yellow.

• Fall colors- Burnt orange, Burgundy, navy, forest green and plum

• Muted colors are flat, subdued versions of some of the colors already listed. I use muted tones when I'm trying to interpret soft moods..Gentle, approachable, calm. Muted tones can also draw the viewers focus to something else in the image like movement or expression.

*I love photographing neutrals and muted tones- it's my preferred color palette. Neutrals and Muted outfits are easy to coordinate with my backdrops and compliment all skin tones.*

Most likely you already have an idea of what colors you like on yourself. You probably figured that out over time studying your skin's undertones and the way it either clashed with certain colors or favored others. If you're not sure what colors look good on you, ask a spouse or family member what colors they think compliment you well.

2. NECKLINE

This is an important one. My favorites for portraiture- sweetheart, off shoulder, V-neck and plunging V. I think these offer the most feminine silhouette.

High neck, one shoulder or turtleneck work well for long, lean bodies.

Crewnecks are usually for basic t-shirts or sweaters you may wear around the house or to run errands.. and I would usually say leave it at home because it simply doesn't photograph that well. But if you have a top that is a crewneck or boatneck and want to use this as a casual girl next door look - style it with pulled back hair and bold earrings.

3. PATTERN OR NO PATTERN

This can get tricky. The trick is knowing if you want the pattern to speak for you or not.

Sometimes a subtle pinstripe or plaid can work if it is complementing the mood of the image and doesn't over power the outfit. In general, patterns tend to distract viewers from the mood created by the backdrop, lighting, pose and expression. Fashion photography and bloggers use bold patterns and colors to get you to buy the outfits, but portrait photography focuses on the mood and beauty of the person.

Side note- if you are a fashion blogger needing personal branding images or content then you already know your strengths in patterns and can use them wisely.

4. TEXTURE & EMBELLISHMENT

Sequins, fringe, beading, faux furs, lace, satin and ruffles...

Any of these would instantly liven up any photo set. Textures will add that extra Oomph to your look. If you love the drama, start here and go for bold colors.

5. FABRIC FOR MOVEMENT

Another way of adding drama to your shoot is choosing fabrics that can move when you do! Think chiffon or fringe. Opt for a chiffon dress that we can toss into the air while putting wind in your hair for a Victoria Secret Runway kind of feel.

6. MOOD

What is the mood of your session? Why are you doing this? How do you want to be perceived?

If you want to embody a cheerful, light hearted, bubbly personality in your images you will want to stay away from dark colors and choose soft fabrics and silhouettes.

If you like the moody, seriously sophisticated look - embrace the darks and jewel tones and go for an off the shoulder neckline to bring in personality.

If you want a look that shows your professional standards, stick with the classics and choose structured pieces that reflect your brand.

There are so many variables to this but you get the idea.

7. MONOCHROMATIC

I saved the best tip for last. Dressing monochromatic means that you are essentially using one color to dress the body. Wearing all one color, or shades of that one color can lengthen the body dramatically in camera.

Let's say you have a soft pink, cashmere off-the-shoulder top... you would pair it with a similar shade of blush pant or skirt.

Or better yet, look for a satin slip dress in your favorite color and a bold earring in the same hue. Pair lights with lights. Pair darks with darks.

Jumpsuits and full length dresses are another easy way to lengthen your body using the monochromatic tip.

Ok I've given you a lot of things to think about. Now its time to choose your outfits! Have fun with this- go all out! I've created a Pinterest board just for you if you need more inspiration.