What to Wear for Your Fraser Valley Photography Session
Hi, hi! If you're here you're probably feeling a little overwhelmed, but I'm here to assure you, you dont have to be! Simply know, the goal is to feel like yourself. Your outfit should reflect your personality, make you feel comfortable, and complement the setting rather than distract from it. So, without further ado, let's dive into this!
Simple Guidelines for Choosing Outfits:
Start with Comfort and Confidence
If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show. Choose pieces you can move in, sit in, and relax in. When you feel good, it naturally translates into your photos.
Dress for the Location and Season
Think about where your session is taking place. Soft neutrals and earthy tones work beautifully in nature, while more structured or elevated outfits can suit urban settings. Also consider the season. Light fabrics work well in warmer months, while layering is perfect for fall and winter.
Bring Options
If possible, bring a second outfit. This gives variety to your gallery and allows for a slightly different look without needing a full outfit change for everyone.
Let Your Personality Lead
Your outfit should feel like you. Whether that’s more minimal, more expressive, or somewhere in between, your style should come through naturally.
Use Texture and Movement
Textures like linen, knits, or subtle patterns add depth without being distracting. Pieces that move, like flowy dresses or loose fabrics, photograph beautifully and add life to your images.
Understanding Colour:
Coordinating, Not Matching
Avoid everyone wearing the exact same colour. Instead, choose a palette of 2 to 4 tones that work well together. This creates a cohesive look without feeling too uniform.
Colour Theory in Action
Complementary colours sit opposite each other on the colour wheel and create a balanced, visually pleasing look. For example:
- Blue and warm beige
- Green and soft rust
- Cream and muted burgundy
Analogous colours sit next to each other on the colour wheel and feel soft and harmonious. For example:
- Cream, beige, and soft brown
- Sage, olive, and muted green tones
Matching vs Coordinating
Unintentional matching can look flat, like everyone wearing the same white shirt and jeans. Intentional coordination uses different tones, textures, and layers to create depth while still feeling connected.
Be Mindful of Patterns and Logos
Avoid bold logos, busy prints, or neon colors. These can pull attention away from you. If you choose patterns, keep them subtle and balanced with solid pieces.
Layering for Colder Seasons
Layers like jackets, cardigans, scarves, or coats not only keep you warm but also add dimension and variety to your photos. So be sure to dress for the weather in cooler seasons!
The Details Matter:
Accessories
Keep accessories simple and intentional. Think delicate jewelry, hats, or minimal pieces that complement your outfit without overpowering it.
Shoes
Shoes are often overlooked but make a big difference. Stick to neutral, clean options that match your outfit and the setting. Avoid overly bright or worn-out footwear.
Props
If you’d like to bring something meaningful, simple props like a blanket, flowers, or personal items can add a nice touch without taking over the moment.
Hair and Makeup
Keep it true to you. Aim for a polished version of your everyday look. Avoid trying something completely new right before your session. Soft, natural makeup and simple hairstyles tend to photograph best, but the most important thing is that you feel like yourself.
Final Thoughts:
At the end of the day, the goal is to feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself. When that comes through, your photos will feel natural and timeless. Your session should reflect your real life, not a styled version of someone else’s. These tips work for family, couples, lifestyle, and personal branding photography sessions throughout Abbotsford, the Fraser Valley, and surrounding areas.
Quick Recap:
- Choose outfits that feel comfortable and true to you
- Dress for the location and season
- Coordinate colours instead of matching exactly
- Use texture and movement for added depth
- Avoid bold logos and busy patterns
- Layer for colder weather
- Keep accessories and shoes simple and intentional
- Bring an extra outfit if possible
- Keep hair and makeup natural and familiar
If you’re still unsure, that's okay!! Feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help guide you in choosing outfits that photograph beautifully and feel true to you.
