Outfit inspiration and styling tips
You may not be aware of this but what you wear to a shoot has a huge impact on the outcome of the pictures.
And it makes sense. What you wear really does affect how photos feel.
Planning outfits for your photo session can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The clothing you choose plays a bigger role than many people realize. Outfits influence how your photographs feel, how naturally you move, and how well your images blend with the landscape around you. My goal is never for your clothing to distract from the story. Instead, I want it to complement the connection, emotion, and beauty already present in the moment. Whether you’re planning family photos, a couples session, graduation portraits, or a branding shoot on Oahu, these simple guidelines will help you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.
Start With Comfort
Before anything else, choose something that you actually feel good wearing. If you're constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling uncomfortable, that will show in the photos. When people feel relaxed, they move more naturally and the photos feel effortless.
I'd never want to shoot families, couples, or anyone who would be uncomfortable in their clothing.
Believe me: it comes out on the pictures, and I truly just want you to feel comfortable and look back and think: yes that was me, instead of: "why was I wearing those clothes that I never wear?"
Chances are we are gonna be on the beach, even jump in the water for a swim so I would say bring a change of clothes and wear things that are appropriate and believe me I don't mean just swimming clothes are appropriate, fully clothed ocean swims are awesome and make for amazing pictures.
The most important thing to me is that you feel and look like yourself. A lot of people try to go shopping for new and nicer clothes, but if you feel like yourself in a pair of ripped jeans and an old band t-shirt then why not? You are always welcome to bring in options and I will help you to sort them out but here are a few things to avoid.
Look For Clothing That Moves
Flowy dresses, relaxed shirts, and soft fabrics work beautifully on the beach.
The wind creates natural movement, which adds life and softness to the photos.
Choose Soft, Natural Colors
Colors that blend with the beach usually photograph the best. Think cream, beige, sage, soft blues, sand tones, and warm earth colors.
These tones complement the ocean and sky without competing with the scenery.
Coordinate Instead Of Matching
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, try choosing two or three tones that work well together.
For example, someone might wear cream while another person wears sage or light beige. It keeps things cohesive while still feeling natural.
Keep Patterns And Logos Simple
Avoid big, loud logos and prints. The smaller or more subtle the better. Normally the above will distract from youre faces and steal the show. We want more minimalistic photos instead of loud and all over the place. I'd also avoid matching prints and colors, We can totally work with different colors but we do not want everyone looking the same.
Minimize Accessories
We want you to be the focus of your photos. Keeping accessories to a minimum will help to do just that! Too many accessories will take away the spotlight and may be overwhelming to the eye. If you choose to wear an accessory that makes a statement, minimizing your other accessories, as well as keeping your clothing patterns simple, will allow it to stand out without being too much.
For in home sessions I say the more skin showing the better. I don't mean borderline naked but more like let's avoid the 5 layers of clothes going on :). It will look a lot more comfortable and intimate than "nice clothes". If you want to wear your boo's hoodie with undies and some socks. I am here for it, you're home therefore you should be comfortable.
Props!
When I am talking of props I am talking about accesssories that show off your personality. Be it a skateboard, a surfboard, a bike, a domino's pizza and some wine? Why not? A camera, a
blanket, books, journals, your pet. You name it!!! There are zillions of options and of course, you can always text me and ask for more ideas. I will be happy to provide some props, too.
Hair and Make Up!!!
A lot of people ask me whether or not they should get their hair and make up done by a pro and my answer is always: whatever makes you feel better and like yourself. I, myself don't think it's necessary whatsoever, because in my personal opinion I would rather look like myself instead of a super glammed up version of myself. I lover adventure shoots where we can go hike up a mountain or throw ourselves in the ocean, so I would say the make up and nice hairdo would be in the way of that.
The Best Photos Happen When You Relax
Most sessions end up feeling more like a walk on the beach than a photoshoot. We might walk along the shoreline, sit in the sand, or let the kids run around and explore. When everyone relaxes and enjoys the moment together, that’s when the most meaningful photos happen.
My photography services are 100% tailored to your needs and ideas. If you are someone who feels that adventure shoots are not your thing then please let me know in advance so I can prepare myself with different location and props.
I can't wait to bring your vision to life and create magic with you. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. I am here for you.
Mahalo,
Olya
Seaside Photography Hawaii
