the client closet

STYLING & THE CLIENT CLOSET

As a mom of three myself, I know how challenging it can be to find portrait-friendly outfits for the entire family! That's why I've created this in-depth guide to help you pull together pieces to create your dream portraits.

Whether you choose to use a dress from the AWP Client Closet or shop on your own, it's my hope that this guide helps you understand what to look for when selecting outfits!

Wardrobe

THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOUR PHOTOS

Here we go! This is either the most stressful or most fun part of the process (although I'm here to help you either way)... it's outfit time! 

Photography is kind of like walking into a bakery. There are many photographers out there who have all kinds of different styles - cupcake flavors, if you will. They're all great, but each one requires a specific recipe to get that end result you love! I am so honored that you've chosen my bakery, but I need your help to complete the recipe.

I have a very specific style and strive to be consistent with my images so you know exactly what kinds of photos you will be getting from your session - dreamy, light, airy, classic, timeless, and romantic.

So let's get baking.

Perhaps you've noticed that mostly everyone on my website or instagram feed is wearing light colors. There is a reason for this! A photographer's best friend is light. Light is the "paint" I use. I use it to get a very specific look - probably the look that drew you to my work in the first place! When you wear light clothing, the sunlight bounces around, reflects back into your face and anyone who is around you, creating a beautiful glow. It flatters your skin - making it creamier, and hiding flaws. 

**If you absolutely hate light colors, please go with muted jewel tones (such as plum or midnight blue), as opposed to anything bright and vivid, or neon. Sunlight combined with vivid colors (such as really bright blues, neon yellows, etc) makes for an unnatural color cast on your skin. With the lighting I use, if you are wearing bright green and it reflects back onto your face (and it will) it can make you look sick and we don't want that!

My aim when it comes to clothing, is to have it NOT distract from your faces and expressions. I want the focus to be solely on those dimples in your baby's cheeks, your son's freckles, your daughter's beautiful eyes. When you are wearing simple and timeless clothing, the attention isn't drawn to your clothing... but to those amazing features I just mentioned. This is a great thing! When you wear busy patterns, it competes for that attention and your eyes are naturally drawn there.

Light colors are a MUST.

The Aesthetic

Patterns

low contrast is always best!

We need to be very selective about the patterns we incorporate into our portraits. As a general rule, all patterns should be small in size, and very low contrast.

High contrast patterns (aka: light and dark colors close together) attract the eye and compete for attention... taking the focus from faces, which we don't want! This is one of those seemingly little choices that actually make a big impact!

Light and delicate patterns are easier on the eyes (and the overall color palette). The image on the right is an example of a portrait-friendly pattern. This dress doesn't attract the eye, leaving it free to focus on the most important things - the faces you love!

For the ladies, nothing helps create that timeless aesthetic like a long flowing dress. I highly recommend maxi or midi-length dresses. The floor length flatters every silhouette. When a little breeze flutters by, it helps create motion in the photo. Additionally, the long length makes crouching down easier, which you're likely to do quite a bit during a family session. Wearing dresses is not an absolute must, but it really does help create the aesthetic you often see in my work! 

For little girls, you can go very simple! Just a solid colored, plain dress can be perfect. You can also add texture with sweaters, boots, bows, etc.

Wardrobe Tips

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

find it fast

Props should be classic, natural, and only used very sparingly. Remember, I like to keep the focus on the face! That being said, I love including a meaningful prop or two, when the occasion calls for it.

For example, I LOVE LOVE LOVE floral bouquets, a beloved book, an ultrasound photo, or a sentimental toy (just for some of the shots). Little props that are simple and meaningful, can add some fun photos to a collage, and make for visual interest. If you do bring a prop or two, please let me know before we start so I can incorporate them when the time is right in your session.

Props

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

find it fast

While it isn't absolutely necessary, feel free to go all out! Professionally done hair & makeup does last longer than what you or I can do on our own, most likely. It also tends to hold up better for humidity and wind.

With the settings I use to shoot, please go a shade or two darker than usual with your usual blush and lipstick (these things will photograph lighter than they look in person). Additionally, be sure to keep hair out of eyes - especially for the little ones! A simple hair-colored barrette is my favorite, because it doesn't distract from their faces.

Hair & Makeup

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

for the ladies

find it fast

Anything neutral, light and NOT distracting works! In the Summer, I love bare feet if the terrain allows. As for babies who can't walk - if it's warm enough, let's see those cute toes! If it's cold out, neutral boots are adorable, or just about anything as long as it's not a bright color. If mom is wearing a maxi dress, often times we won't be able to see those shoes so no pressure there.

When all is said and done, I just want to make sure the shoes don't attract too much attention. We want that attention going to your faces!

Shoes

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

find it fast

Nothing Fits But
Morning Lavender
Baltic Born
Anthropologie
Mint Julep
J. Crew

Favorite Shops

Pink Blush
Amazon
Ivy City
Joyfolie
Free People

ACCESSORIES

WHERE TO SHOP

HAIR & MAKEUP

MANICURE

Outfits

find it fast

For shirts, I recommend a button-up dress shirt (rolled up to the elbows if the temperatures allow! It helps create a dressy, but not stuffy look). I would avoid polo shirts, at least for my particular style.

For bottoms I highly recommend keeping them a light color. This can make a HUGE difference in your photos. Khakis, tan pants or light grey will work. If you'd like to go the denim route, choose a very light wash. I highly discourage dark pants (black, navy, dark brown, etc.) because of the contrast it creates with other light colors. Your eye will go right to it!
*Adding layers and textures by way of blazers, suspenders, vests, etc. is always a good idea as long as the colors stay muted.

Wardrobe

WHERE TO SHOP

Outfits

for the gents

find it fast

ASOS
 Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton

Jack Threads 

Frank & Oak 

Nordstrom 
H&M
Urban Outfitters

Wardrobe

WHERE TO SHOP

Outfits

for the gents

Styling Tips

shop for mom first

Mom is generally the hardest to dress, so start there first! Once mom has something she loves, find coordinating pieces for the kids. Finally, tie everything together with something light and neutral for dad!

DON'T FORGET ACCESSORIES

Add a little visual interest with accessories. A wide-brimmed hat and trendy sunglasses add fun to your portraits, while vests and scarves help keep everyone warm in the cooler months.

BRING A BACKUP

For young children, I highly recommend having a backup outfit on hand just in case of spills or accidents. 

STOCK THE CLIENT CLOSET INCENTIVE

Don't want to purchase a dress you'll only wear once? I totally understand! See below for details.

The Client Closet is our newest incentive for AWP portrait clients! The wishlist below is a carefully curated, ever-evolving selection of pieces that are guaranteed to work perfectly for any portrait session. Shop the links below to remove the headache and overwhelm of trying to find pieces on your own!

If you don't want to purchase a dress you'll only wear once, simply send me an email with the dress and size you'd like, along with your mailing address. I'll purchase the dress and have it shipped to you before your session. After the session is complete, I'll take it with me to add to the Client Closet!

If you choose to take advantage of this option, I MUST have your dress choice at least 3 weeks in advance to allow time for shipping. Additionally, don't forget to bring a change of clothes to the session for the ride home!

Optional Incentive: Stock the Client Closet

NOTHIG FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, BLUSH

NOTHING FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, GREY

NOTHING FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, CREAM

NOTHING FITS BUT
SAKURA DRESS, BLUE ROSE

NOTHIG FITS BUT
HANA ONESIE, BLUSH

NOTHING FITS BUT
HANA GIRLS DRESS, BLUSH

NOTHING FITS BUT
HANA ONESIE, CREAM

NOTHING FITS BUT
GIRLS DRESS, BLUE ROSE

NOTHIG FITS BUT
SAKURA DRESS, PINK FLORAL

NOTHING FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, BLACK

NOTHING FITS BUT
YUKI DRESS, ORANGE POPPY

MORNING LAVENDER
LORAINE MAXY DRESS

NOTHIG FITS BUT
GIRLS DRESS, BLUE TOILE

NOTHING FITS BUT
HANA ONESIE, BLUE TOILE

NOTHING FITS BUT
HANA ONESIE, WHITE

NOTHING FITS BUT
GIRLS DRESS, FLORAL GAUZE

NOTHIG FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, ROSE GINGHAM

NOTHING FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, BLACK

NOTHING FITS BUT
KIKO DRESS, BLUE TOILE

NOTHING FITS BUT
SEINE DRESS, WHITE

BALTIC BORN
FABIAN DRESS, BLUE FLORAL

BALTIC BORN
VERONA DRESS, BLUE PRINT

BALTIC BORN
MARSEILLE, BLUE BLOSSOM

BALTIC BORN
MARSEILLE, CHERRY BLOSSOM

IVY CITY
DIANA DRESS, LILAC

MORNING LAVENDER
WENDY DRESS, NUDE TULLE

MORNING LAVENDER
WENDY DRESS, BLUE TULLE

PINK BLUSH
WHITE SMOCKED MIDI DRESS

IVY CITY
MINI DIANA DRESS, LILAC

IVY CITY
MINI MADISON DRESS

IVY CITY
MINI MADISON ROMPER

IVY CITY
MADISON DRESS

WANT EVEN MORE?

SHOP THE ARTWORK MENU

Includes 20 images on thick, archival quality paper with your choice of cover color and material, embossed cover, and matching digital files.

8" HEIRLOOM PORTRAIT ALBUM | $1250

Each client will receive a virtual gallery reveal and ordering appointment approximately one week after the event, to be held via Zoom. During this time, we'll review your gallery together, select your included images for your matted folio, and finalize any other purchases you'd like to make from the limited edition menu below.

We offer a highly curated selection of handcrafted, artisan heirlooms you can't get anywhere else. Sample artwork pieces will be onsite during the event, so that you can touch and feel the quality.

Printed on archival photographic paper, your choice of frame, and the matching digital file.

8x10" DESK PORTRAIT | $250

Print mounted to thick mat board, protected by a front glare-free glass, permanently sealed with a black backing paper. Pre-assembled into the frame of your choice and ready to hang. 

FRAMED wall portraits | FROM $750

Ideal for midsize vertical spaces, such as above a desk or side table. Includes nine of your favorite images matted together, in your choice of frame. Final size is approximately 24x30".

THE NINE UP FRAME | $1450

Matted folios hold two 5x7" prints in fine ragmat 4ply matboard. Includes two matching digital files and your choice of linen cover.

ADDITIONAL MATTED folio | $195

For those that want to handle printing on their own - includes unlimited print rights. The full gallery is also included with any artwork purchase of $750 or more. 

DIGITAL FILES

$99 each | $550 for full gallery

WHERE WILL the sessions TAKE PLACE?

I'm so excited! HOW DO WE BOOK?

I've rented a fully furnished studio in Annapolis, MD for these sessions. You'll receive the address and parking instructions prior to the event. 

I'm excited too! The Motherhood Series is truly one of the highlights of the year for me, and it always sells out quickly. Use the link below to reserve your appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

what should we wear? 

WHEN WILL WE SEE THE IMAGES?

I recommend shopping any of the dresses in the links above to fit the fine art aesthetic we're striving for. Don't forget, you can exchange any of those items for artwork credit after the session if you'd like! For little boys, I recommend dressing them in white linen shirts and light grey or khaki pants.

I'll get to work on processing the images right away. About one week after the event, we'll meet virtually via Zoom to view the gallery together, select images for your folio, and finalize any other purchases you'd like to make. 

LIMITED APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Reserve your appointment today at the link below. Looking forward to seeing you there!

BOOK NOW

©2023 | DESIGN BY STUDIO STEFAN  | PHOTOS BY AMANDA WOSE