Tip #1. Love it. Most importantly, bring stuff you love! Stuff you feel comfortable in. Stuff that makes you feel amazing. Lack of comfort and confidence really affects your photos. Remember all those ’90’s portraits when guys were looking all awkward because they were forced to wear a suit and tie? That will not be you! I want you to look and feel amazing… I want you to rock the camera! (note: Don’t worry if mom makes you bring your track suit. We’ll appease her briefly and get on with our thing.)
Tip #2. Bring more than we'll need. We may not use them all, but why limit ourselves on what we have to work with? Bring lots of options so that we can choose colors + styles based on our surroundings and backdrops.
Tip #3. ‘Timeless’, ‘Sassy’, ‘Bold’. Focus on a word that describes the look you want while digging through your closet, and pick out the clothing that speaks to you.
Tip #4. Accessorize. Yep, this goes for guys too. Seriously, accessories are key. They make a plain outfit look rad. Consider some of my favorites… fedoras (or other awesome hats), belts, sweet shoes, a bow tie, vest, cowboy boots, crazy cool earrings, sunglasses, big bracelets, hair flowers, gloves, watches… bring it! Let’s play!
Tip #5. Color. Definitely bring some black and some solid colors, but also please bring a few pieces with vibrant color. Blues, Yellows, Greens, Reds… I love color that pops! It could be an accessory… big yellow earrings, a purple belt or hat. It could be shoes… yellow Converse, red boots (personal fave). It could be a jacket, lipstick or a shirt. Just bring a few pieces to add a splash of color to make your photos POP!
Tip #7. Texture. Texture can come in so many forms… a large knit sweater, ruffles on a skirt, lacy stockings, polka dot rain boots… it simply adds an extra element. If you’ve got some texture, bring it.
Tip #8. Buy something new. Splurge. I give you permission. Whether you love Free People, Brany Melville, vintage… buying something new can make you feel amazing… and that’s exactly what we’re going for. This is a big event. If a new outfit will make it that much better… do it.
Tip #9. Don’t forget the SHOES!!! I have to be perfectly honest. I’m a shoe-aholic. It’s true, and I especially love boots. But I also have to be honest and say… if a senior misses out on just one thing, it’s bound to be shoes. Guys… Shoes can totally make your outfit. They pull everything together. Don’t skimp on the shoes! One pair is NOT enough… bring many pair of shoes. And I stress… SHOES!!!
Tip #10. Don’t Be Shy. You know how you see models in magazines wearing something ridiculous that you’d never wear in real life, but it look super cool in the picture? Point given. Bring your normal every day clothes, but don’t be shy to bring something crazy and outrageous!
Tip #11. Variety. I love mixing and matching rags, prom dresses, and everything in between. Bring a variety to work with… clothes, accessories & shoes. You’ll be happy you did. Just remember… Love what you bring to wear. Wear what makes you feel confident. Have fun. And, yeah… bring your prom dress.
