What to Wear


What you decide to wear is a personal decision and should reflect your brand and your unique story. That being said, there are some general guidelines to follow! In general, you want to look polished and confident, while still allowing your own personal style shine through and come across as authentic and approachable. When choosing colors, keep in mind your hair and skin tone as well as your brand colors (if those are established). Even more importantly, your clothes should flatter your body type and fit you well.




WArdrobe tips



A few questions to ask yourself: What type of image do I want to convey? What are the top 5 adjectives that would describe me? Don't forget to bring accessories (sunglasses, coat, scarf, jacket, jewelry, fun shoes) to personalize things!



  • Keep it fitted - too large or baggy clothes will make you look bigger than you are!
  • Consider bringing two different outfits/looks for more variety.
  • Don't forget props! If you decide you want a lifestyle session, think about a laptop, favorite book or journal, get creative!
  • AVOID - distracting logos / wording, busy prints, neon colors.
  • Neutral colors are great as well as rich/jewel tones.
  • Colors similar to or complimentary of your eye color will make your eyes pop and draw viewers into your photo!
  • For the ladies: scoop or v-necklines create an illusion of length and rea more flattering than high necked tops.
  • For the men: If you are wearing a suit it should be tailored. Think contrast (dark sport coat against white shirt). A tie isn't necessary but you may want to bring one in case. Your undershirt shouldn't be visible.

Hair, Makeup & Other Prep


Pamper yourself



Consider having your hair, nails or makeup professionally done. This is not necessary, but it can make a big difference in how you look and feel the day of. If that's not possible or not your preference, be sure to leave plenty of time to do your own hair and makeup how you like it best!



  • Opt for a style that adds body and volume to your hair
  • Bring some hair spray to lock your style in place and tame any stray hairs or wispies. But don't overdo it - too much hairspray can make your hair look dirty and stiff!
  • Be sure to moisturize leading up to and the day of the shoot-but avoid wearing sunscreen on the day of!
  • Exfoliate and pluck eyebrows 1-2 days BEFORE your shoot, not the day of to avoid unwanted redness. Haircuts should also be done a few days in advance.
  • Shave the night before not the day of.
  • Do your best to look like YOU - don't go heavy on the makeup - but stay true to yourself (if you usually wear bright lip colors, go for it)
  • Makeup: make sure your foundation matches your neck
  • Don't cake makeup over blemishes a that is more difficult to retouch
  • Feel free to powder your T-zone if you feel you need to - but don't go overboard - too much powder shows on camera in micro hairs, eyebrows, eyelashes, etc. Also, go easy on contouring!


Props - yay or nay?



Some things to consider





Props are a great way to allow your audience to connect to you personally. And by "prop", I'm not just talking about silly hats or furniture- a prop could be anything that helps tell your story - from another person or pet, accessories that show your own unique flair, items you use in your work, or even a place.



Here are just a few ideas of props that can help tell your story!


Incorporate your brand colors. A scarf or boots, couch cushions/blankets/pillows, journals/notebooks or even a customized cover for your laptop or phone that ties your branding colors in is a subtle way to keep your brand top of mind!


Share your passions. Do you LOVE a certain sports team? Or love to read a particular genre of books? Are you a family history buff or love to cook? Did you recently pick up watercolor painting? Chances are there are many people in your audience who share those same interests and will feel more connected and loyal when they see you love these things too! So find some ways to incorporate these personal things into your photos!


Products you offer. This may seem obvious, but showing photos of you or other using something you offer - reading a book you wrote, using that perfect kitchen tool, feeding your pet that awesome food you created - is a perfect way to show the advantages of having that product!


Invite a family member/friend/pet. Show off the "why" for your business and help your audience connect with you on a deeper level about your mission, vision and goals.


Shoot at your favorite places. Do you have a cabin in the woods or favorite beach you love to frequent? Or maybe you've got a talent for gardening or a favorite restaurant where you came up with your genius idea. These sentimental or unique locations can be a perfect place to convey an aspect of your personal story.


Detail Shots. Your face doesn't have to be the central focus of all your photos. The almost cliche "hands holding the fav coffee mug" or "fingers typing on the laptop" are so often used for a reason. Think of other objects you may want photographed that represent your interests - favorite plants or a passport if you love to travel, paint brushes in a jar if you love to paint, old photos of ancestors if you're a fan of genealogy, etc.



Vanessa Kay Brand
Photography



341 Monte Vista Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627