your STYLE GUIDE
THE ART OF SHOWING UP
Together we’ll shape the direction of your session. We’ll discuss the mood, the tones and silhouettes that actually flatter you.
We’re in this together and you’re not doing this alone.
“KNOW FIRST WHO YOU ARE, THEN ADORN YOURSELF ACCORDINGLY.”
EPICTETUS
what to WEAR
Let’s keep this simple and intentional. We’ll plan for up to 3 looks. If you’re unsure, bring no more than 5 options, and we’ll refine everything together when you arrive.
If it feels like too much at home, it usually becomes clear the second you step into the space. Styling should be cohesive, not complicated. Black, white, cream, soft gray, and muted blue tones photograph beautifully. Jeans are great, but stick to light wash or a dark wash. Monochromatic looks consisting of different shades of the same color photograph beautifully and allow you to stand out.
COLOR PALETTE
What you wear isn’t just about how it looks. It shapes how you feel, how you move, and how present you are in the moment. It’s completely okay if you’re unsure as we’ll refine everything together in real time. You don’t need to have it perfectly figured out before you arrive.
WARDROBE
CONSIDERATIONS
THE MEN’S WHITE BUTTON DOWN
Fit should be slightly oversized, relaxed, effortless. It should fall off the shoulder just enough and cover your hips without swallowing you whole. Look for a men’s slim fit for that balance.
DENIM, TROUSERS OR SKIRTS
Go for movement and shape. Wide-leg denim, slightly distressed, or a tailored wide-leg trouser works beautifully. Longer skirts in silk or satin that allow for movement work well.
BLAZER
Choose black or white in an oversized fit. Boyfriend or tuxedo styles that fall past your hips create that effortless, editorial feel without trying too hard. A lace or solid low cut camisole is preferred instead of a button down shirt. A bralette or nothing underneath (gasp!) will also photograph beautifully.
SWEATERS
Turtleneck or off-the-shoulder, depending on your mood. Stick to black, cream, or soft gray. Soft textures photograph in a way that feels quiet and intimate.
STATEMENT ITEM
This is where you can have a little fun. A leather jacket, something vintage-inspired or pieces with personality. Think less costume, more edge. A subtle nod to that 90s glamour energy, but refined.
SIMPLE KNITS
A fitted tee or tank in black or white. If time allows, we’ll use these for a more relaxed, expressive series at the end. This is usually where people loosen up… and where some of the best images happen.
SHOES
We prefer the barefoot look but occasionally will include a pointed toe heel (black or nude only). Please come with pedicured toes.
THOUGHTS ON
HAIR & MAKEUP
HAIR
Hair should move. That’s the simplest way to think about it.
Styles that feel soft, touchable, and a little undone photograph in a way that feels effortless and modern. Hair that is too structured or overly set can start to feel stiff in images. Soft waves are always a beautiful choice. They create movement, catch the light, and frame your face without overwhelming it. Aim for soft bends that curl away from the face, natural volume, something you can run your fingers through without thinking twice. And because we live in Houston… bring a curling iron for backup. Humidity has its own personality, and we’ll adjust as needed.
If your natural texture is curly, let it be what it is. We’re not trying to fight what already works. We’re refining it. What we want to avoid are tight, overly defined curling iron curls that are overly styled or fixed in place.
MAKEUP
Keep this grounded in who you already are.
Clean, timeless, and intentional will always photograph better than anything trendy or overworked. Heavy makeup tends to sit on top of the skin instead of becoming part of it. On camera, that can read as flat, textured, or distracting.
Skin should looks like skin, just more even and luminous. Eye should have soft definition that brings focus without overpowering and stick to tones that complement your natural coloring, not fight against it.
This is not the moment for bold color choices, dramatic contouring, or anything that feels outside of your normal rhythm. If it’s not something you would typically wear, it will feel unfamiliar. If you find yourself going back and forth in the mirror, adjusting or questioning it, that’s usually your cue to pull back.
Less, done well, always wins here.
And one thing that makes a quiet but noticeable difference is how your makeup wears throughout the session. Bring a small touch-up kit with you. Nothing excessive, just what you know you reach for:
powder or blotting papers to soften shine
your lipstick, especially if you tend to reapply
a couple lip color options if you’re undecided beforehand
PREPARING FOR YOUR SESSION
CLOTHING
Steam or press everything ahead of time. A steamer will be here for touch-ups. Bring the right undergarments: strapless, seamless nude, and a black set. Pack everything the night before into a hanging garment bag. Give yourself a calm, unrushed morning.
BEAUTY
Keep this aligned with who you already are. No new experiments. No spray tans. No drastic hair changes. Avoid facials, fillers, or Botox within two weeks. Your skin needs to settle. Touch up roots if needed. If you’re considering extensions, plan ahead with your stylist.
Nails matter more than you think. Keep them clean and minimal. Nude, sheer, or classic French always works.
Exfoliate gently and keep your lips hydrated in the days leading up.
DETAILS
Stay out of the sun. Tan lines and burns don’t photograph well. Start stretching a few days before. Your body will thank you. Leave your skin alone. No picking, no over-fixing.
Take care of grooming. Wax, shave, whatever feels like you.
Drink water. More than usual. It shows. Go easy on caffeine and sodium the day before.
PORTRAIT DAY
Sleep well. Eat a nourishing breakfast something nourishing. Continue to hydrate and I kindly ask that you arrive on time.
When you’ve taken the time to prepare, to choose pieces that feel right, to think through the details, you’re not second-guessing, you’re giving yourself the confidence that will show up in photos.
You take care of yourself. I’ll take care of everything else.
INSPIRATION
All images leading up to this section are my work. The images below are here for inspiration only. It reflects how I see, how I shoot, and how your session will naturally come together. But to give us a shared visual language for what you’re drawn to. We’ll take what resonates and translate it into something that is entirely yours. Aligned with your features, your energy, and the way you naturally move.
