Flattering is our goal. No one understands the need to capture a stunning image better than your photographer, and that means limiting distractions and drawing out your real confidence.
Flattery is less about making you look like someone else and more about capturing what you’ve got. We teach ourselves to be incredibly self-critical, focused on our flaws, and perpetually driven by impossible-to-reach, self-imposed standards. Of course, capturing your natural beauty isn’t going to occur if we are dreading what we expect to see.
We need to change those expectations because whoever said professional studio photography was only for models definitely wasn’t a photographer. At a well-experienced photo studio, flattery becomes an art form. It’s a balance between honesty and interpretation. It’s about working with your strengths, your energy, and your confidence, which we know is within you.
We can guarantee your photographer doesn’t see your flaws. All your photographer sees is endless possibilities for a beautiful image.
This is not a cliche. This is what creativity really means. A skilled photographer looks beyond what you see in the mirror. In the studio, under soft, flattering lighting, they see connection, warmth, and a story to be captured.
In every session, we celebrate diversity in our bodies and encourage you to look beyond traditional beauty to see yourself and those you love as you truly are. Still, there are a few helpful styling choices that can help you feel more confident in front of the camera, ensuring your clothing supports you, not distracts (more styling tips).
If you are sensitive about your upper arms, we suggest choosing loose sleeves that fall to your elbow or wrist. Flowy, creaseless fabrics that drape softly can be very forgiving and comfortable.
If your hair is long, wear it down to flatter your décolletage and jawline. Drop earrings and necklines that flatter, such as crew-necks, v-necks, collared button-ups ups or turtlenecks, help draw the eyes up. Avoid off-the-shoulder looks and wide scoop or boat necks if this is not an area you wish to highlight. Scarves, blazers, jackets, and shawls also work beautifully.
If you prefer not to accentuate this area, avoid clingy jersey and stretchy fabrics. Instead, accentuate the waist and wear loose and flowing skirts or trousers that fall just before the curve in your hip in crisp fabrics such as cottons and linens, or floaty fabrics.
High waistlines, pleated skirts, slim to straight cut denims, flowing trousers, A-line, empire line, and baby doll cut dresses all create beautiful classic lines that photograph naturally in a photo studio setting.
Avoid Brand-names, neon trims, uniforms, bright primary coloured shirts, and large printed numbers. These can distract from your image and perhaps create clashing colours in your home.
Soft, pale, or warm neutrals work well with jeans and trousers for a casual look. However, if you’ve got a bright print style button down shirt you love, a stunning suit, or a fancy pair of shoes, throw them in the mix, just check in with anyone you may be bringing to the shoot, to make sure your looks are complementary to each other.
Simple washed denim and tailored slacks with minimal detail and pockets can be more flattering on the thighs and around the waist. Avoid overly heavy pockets on the outside of your trousers.
Don’t ever be afraid to be a part of your own visual story. Collectively, our humanity is what is interesting and worth documenting.
You are not the only human to be older than you were yesterday, more cuddlier than you were in your youth, shorter than your neighbour, taller than your partner, skinnier than your friends. If you have a nose, thick eyebrows, hips, curly hair, white hair, or no hair; if you are curvaceous or all angles, if you are somewhere in between, we know you still have a story to tell, people who love you, and relationships worth celebrating.
A photo studio is not for perfection; it’s a place for truth. Whether you are doing a solo session or a family photo shoot, what matters most is not how you look but how it feels when you see your final images and look at yourself with kindness.
Choosing outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable is key. When you feel good in what you are wearing it shows in the photos.
Pick a colour palette and let each person choose pieces that suit their individual style. This helps the group look cohesive without being overly matchy.
Very bright colours or busy patterns can distract from the faces and emotions in your photos. Solid colours and softer tones often work best on camera.
Think about the backdrop and the vibe you are aiming for. Neutral tones and classic pieces usually work well in both studio and outdoor settings.
Accessories can add personality but keep them simple. A scarf, hat or subtle jewellery can add interest without drawing attention away from the people in the photo.