PHOTOSHOOT WARDROBE GUIDE
Hello, beautiful human!
I could not be more excited to photograph you! This guide is your one stop shop for preparing for your photoshoot session! My hope is that getting ready for your session will be almost as fun as the session itself.
As always, if you need anything please reach out!
Feel free to revisit this guide as often as you need!
How Do I Decide on What to Wear?
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First & foremost.
If you don’t love it, don’t bring it. Seriously, save yourself the bag space and weight. If you’re not feeling yourself when you put it on? Leave it at home. If you don’t love it in real life? You won’t love it in photos either. Pick garments that make you feel confident and comfortable in your body. Nothing photographs as beautifully as confidence - it’s corny but it’s so true!
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Lingerie is not a must
Don’t be afraid to get creative! If you’re not naturally a lingerie gal - that isn’t going to magically change when you show up at the studio. Whilst I love a good fancy-schmancy piece, I also love getting creative with high-waisted jeans, oversized white button downs, statement tops, or cozy at-home outfits. Remember that these images are about seeing yourself for who you really are. It’s not about pretending to be someone else as we play dress-ups for the afternoon. Bring those pieces that really make you feel like you. The best outfits are the ones that really bring forth your personality!
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Visual Interest VS. Visual Overwhelm
Visual interest is what makes your images one-of-a-kind. Visual overwhelm is what can make your images feel busy and cheap. Some of my suggestions for visual interest include: ruffles, textures, sequins, jewel tones, fringe, glitter, sheer fabrics, movement, statement lips, and natural elements like flora & fauna. Visual overwhelm often occurs with things like: neon colours, busy patterns, animal prints, too many layers, or mismatched sets.
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Come with options
When you are in hair and makeup, I’ll go through your wardrobe options and ask if there are specific ‘must-wear’ pieces. A good rule of thumb is to bring 7-8 different looks. We will narrow it down from there together to create a balanced selection that features a cohesive variety for your final collection of photographs. We will confirm what you are comfortable with in terms of nudity before we begin so please do not feel the need to shy away from more revealing pieces that make you feel amazing.
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Bring a variety of styles!
Make sure that you pack a good range of outfits and lingerie styles: cool blazers, jeans, pretty princess dresses, bodysuits, matching sets, robes, even swimsuits (the camera can’t tell!), etc.
Also bring variety in aesthetics: something more soft and romantic, something more sleek and editorial, something casual, something fun… You get the idea!
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Make it personal with your props
Heirloom ring from your grandmother? Bring it. Special or meaningful brooch that you got from overseas? Bring that too. I love it. The dainty chain that you were on a daily basis? We will shoot with that too! Jewellery is an amazing way to make your images true to you.
Still in doubt?
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Simplicity.
Remember that simplicity rocks. We love working with pretty scarves, sheer fabrics, satin/silk fabrics, white button downs, jackets, coats, or anything you love. Don’t overcomplicate things!
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Try something timeless.
Treat yourself to a new, classic bra and panty set. You can go as fancy or as simple as you’d like, but everyone looks good in black (or white). This classic and timeless set will truly let your energy be the focus of your photographs.
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Consider artistic nudes.
Yes, nudes count as an outfit choice, just in case you were wondering.
Purchasing for my photoshoot?
Have yourself properly fitted.
I recommend going to a local lingerie boutique to have yourself properly fitted prior to your session. Myer/David Jones/other professional bra fitting services (e.g French Bikini, Brava Lingerie, She Science) are wonderful places to start with. If you’re interested in ordering online, True & Co. has a exceptionally helpful website and quiz that will help you determine what styles and sizes work best for you (lnk here)
If you do buy online, please order at least a month before your session to ensure that your garment arrives in time for your session. However, why not take this opportunity to go and visit some amazing boutiques in your local area? Make a day of it! Go by yourself and take a moment to indulge in some self care or invite your dearest friends to hype you up!
Get creative.
Have you always dreamt of running through a field of flowers in a princess gown? Or perhaps you have always wanted to feel powerful in a three-piece suit? Whatever your wish might be, I want to help you turn that idea into a reality. Now is the time to invest and indulge in your imagination, your hopes, and your desires!
I love getting to take photos of women glowing as they get to wear something special (that fits them perfectly) that they’ve always dreamt of wearing! ✨
REMEMBER:
My posing and shooting style is very easy-going and effortless. You do not need to spend hundreds of dollars on designer lingerie for your session to be a success! As you have probably already noticed, I am very relaxed and easygoing. We will have heaps of fun in making you look and feel like the empowered goddess that you already are.
Brands my clients love:
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Agent Provocateur
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Aimee-Cherie Intimates
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Bambi The Label
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Bluebella
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Bras N Things
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Chouchou Intimates
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Dyspnea
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Empress Mimi
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forever and a day
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HARA The Label
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Hopeless
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Honey Birdette
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Jackfruit The Label
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JBC Lingerie
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Juem
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KAT THE LABEL
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Kiss Kill
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La Perla
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Lonely Lingerie
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Love Stories Intimates
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Maikī
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Nette Rose
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NUNEONI
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Playful Promises
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SAVAGE X FENTY
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Saturday The Label
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SHADIE BY EA
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Smitten Kitten Lingerie
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Teale Coco
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Vanyanís
How do I flatter my figure?
Honestly, it’s all in the posing! I’ll have you positioned in ways that create curves in all the right places so opt for pieces that make you feel incredible and I will do the rest. I am proud to take photos of women in all shapes and sizes. Feel free to browse my Instagram to find previous shoots of mine with women who share a similar body type to you.
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YESSS QUEEENNN! We celebrate them here!
Opt for form fitting outfits! Bodysuits, swimsuits, slips, cocktail wrap dresses are all amazing options! Make sure whatever you bring properly fits you at the most narrow part of your waist so that we can reaallllyyy celebrate those curves! -
Opt for g-strings rather than a full coverage panty. Choosing something with a high cut (and not just a high waist) will create extra curves too. Play around in the mirror with different styles but remember! I can create a killer bum shot with even the smallest of booties! 🍑 It’s ALLLL in the posing!
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Opt for a high cut on lingerie - think Pam Anderson in Baywatch. Aim for panties that cut allllllll the way up past your hips. This creates the illusion of legs that go on for miles and miles.
AGAIN, with posing, I can make you have one of those legs for days! -
Absolutely no worries! Opt for pieces that fit snuggly at your waist and I will do the rest. I know all the poses to help you find, embrace, and elevate your natural curves.
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Bodysuits and bralettes for the win! They look super cute and pretty too! Underwires or Balconettes are lovely options but you can also forego the bra altogether! There are ways to accentuate any level of cleavage. Don’t feel the need to get the biggest, most padded, push-up bra! The itty bitty titty community rocks!
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All boobies are bootifullll! Choose a bra with some support or a snug body suit that will “scoop” the girlies into place! And trust me, I’ve got you with some killer posing and lighting! You’re going to have a whole new appreciation for your girls once you see your images!
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My personal belief is that scars tell a story. Sometimes clients wish they didn’t have to be permanently reminded of that story, and other times, clients embrace their scars as a part of them. For this reason, I will never edit out a scar or stretch mark unless you specifically request it. At the end of the day? This photoshoot is to celebrate YOU. My ultimate goal is that you leave your session feeling more confident than when you walked in.
Pimples, bruises, and mosquito bites? Anything that will not be there in 2 weeks time will be retouched out.
I need some advice with the girlies!
Whether you have a lot on top or an itsy bit... Here are tips to flatter any bust.
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High Necklines
Not all garments are created equal and when you’re smaller on top you want to take advantage of that fact. Try going for a high neckline halter when you’re looking for pieces to rock. This type of lingerie will emphasize your sultry shoulders and bring attention up to your eyes. Keep it simple with a top and panty set like this or this, or you can try a lace halter bodysuit like this.
Bodysuits
And speaking of bodysuits, boost that booty with a fun and playful bodysuit that can highlight your ass-ets while turning up the sexy. Sheer and lace designs will really be great for this look; pair it with some sexy heels (remember to skip the strap backs) and you’ll be a total showstopper. For this look, try a lace bodysuit with a plummeted neckline like this.
Bralettes
One of the biggest things you can bank on when you’re smaller on top is the detail work of the lingerie you choose to flaunt. Bralettes are a great example of using this fact because they come in so many beautiful shapes and sizes. Whether you’re going for lace, satin, applique, or velour there are so many great options for making this style truly your own.
Things to Avoid if Smaller on Top
All this being said…there are some styles that you should most definitely stay away from when you’re smaller on top. Save yourself the heartache and back away from the corsets and bras with cups. They’ll only be doing you a disservice and nobody has time for that.
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Shapewear
Shapewear is going to be your best friend when it comes to boudoir. Choose carefully, though. Not all shapewear is designed with you in mind, so try to stay away from thongs when you’re choosing your outfits. Something I strongly suggest is to invest in some Spanx. Yep, those Spanx. Not only are these a flattering addition to any woman’s wardrobe, but they can actually be worn under your lingerie to shape and smooth your curves. Can’t choose which bodysuit to go with?
Garter Belt
My advice for garter belts would be to grab a thicker belt like this to get the most flattering outline.
P.S. You can sneak a pair of Spanx under these as well!
Bodysuits
Bodysuits are great because they let you express your sensuality without worrying about those little areas you’re self-conscious about. When you’re looking for the perfect bodysuit, play around with different textures and colors to see what’s the most flattering. While black will be a forever classic, you might just find that bright red perfectly matches your playful personality.
Mid to High-Rise Underwear or Two-Piece Sets
Let’s talk two-pieces! These can be a little trickier for curvy girls, but if you’re set on grabbing some pics in them, there are definitely options. My first suggestion would be for you to try a garter belt (with or without stockings) or to go for a retro look with some high-rise undies and a gorgeous bra.
Whichever outfits or styles you choose? Remember that it’s your confidence that shines the brightest during the shoot. When you’re comfortable and what you’re wearing is a representation of you - it gives you that much more sass and power. Still not sure which option is for you? Let me help!
What about my hair?
Should I try something new with my hair?
I know all this talk of self care has you feeling like a whole new you, but now is not the time to be adventurous at the salon. Schedule your regular service a few days or a week before your session. We want you to leave the salon feeling prepared, fresh, and confident for your upcoming photos.
What about hair extensions?
This is the one topic my clients ask about the most.
Here’s the thing: If you have thin hair, extensions are incredible! If you have short hair but want long hair, extensions are incredible! If you just want to look totally glam, extensions are INCREDIBLE!
Still not a fan of extensions? That’s totally okay! My hair and makeup stylist is incredible and can work with all kinds of hair types and lengths. But while we’re on the topic…
There are several types of extensions. They range from expensive to not so expensive. If you do decide to purchase extensions, the type my hair and makeup artist recommends are clip in extensions.
Here are their pointers:
Only get REAL hair. Don't purchase synthetic hair because synthetic hair won't hold curls.
Wash and dry your extensions before you arrive for your shoot. Just use regular shampoo and wash them just like you would wash your own hair. If you don't wash them prior, the extensions won't hold curl and they will end up looking like stringy spaghetti.
Take the extensions out of the package and make sure they match up with your real hair BEFORE you come to your shoot.
What about my make up?
My hair and make-up artist is MAGICAL and she will make you look and feel beautiful! There is no need to bring your own make-up, unless there is a certain lipstick, eyeshadow, blush, etc. that you prefer and love! We got you!
Every woman’s body is a work of art and your beautiful images will be proof of that.
Lastly, what are you worried about?
It happens all the time. A client’s session is getting closer and closer and she begins to panic. I get a frantic email or text that asks me to talk them down and out of her head. They want to reschedule, their lingerie still hasn’t arrived, they’re about to start their period… Any reason/excuse? I’ve heard it all and I have just the thing to erase those nerves!
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Breakouts always come at the worst time! The secret to every one of my clients having picture perfect skin? Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep!
I retouch bruises, blemishes, breakouts, or really anything that is not supposed to be there in two weeks time. I will not let a pimple steal your shine! -
DO NOT STRESS. It’s not going to ruin the day. Opt for tampons or a cup (rather than a pad) since it’s easier to hide in photos. And if needed, we will be having as many bathroom breaks as you need.
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PSA - You don’t have to be a supermodel to do a photoshoot or look good in photos!!
I don’t expect you to know how to pose. Not even the tiniest bit. I will be posing you from your facial expressions down to your fingertips. I will get into the poses myself and have you mirror me. It’s not your job to take amazing photos, it’s mine as your photographer. I’ll be cheering you on the whole time! You’ll be feeling amazing by the time you walk out of the studio! -
If you think that I only photograph models, I understand (because all of my clients are drop dead gorgeous and look so confident in-front of the camera) but truth be told: they are everyday women. Nurses, school teachers, doctors, bartenders, university students, etc. They typically have zero modelling experience and they all love their images. I like to say that no one is immune to my magic (not to mention my contagious laughter), but really my magic is actually just making you feel really comfortable. Because when you are comfortable? You set the stage for being confident. And when you are confident? YOU ARE GORGEOUS. I just need you to show up to the session with an open mind and to trust the process. I’ve never met someone that I couldn’t capture beautifully. Including you! 💕
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I’m so ready for the day that women are comfortable in their own body at any size, age, background, ability, etc. I long for the day that women embrace their bodies in all their feminine glory. I can’t say that enough, but I know that it will be a process. It may be a long journey from some. I know that it is impossible to reach a place of perfect self-love every single second of the day. We are all on this journey together. No matter how much I cheer you on and tell you that you are beautiful - it doesn’t undo the decades of conditioning that came before.
I take your feelings, concerns, and worries very seriously. Before your session, I will walk you through what to expect and how to request a different pose. I truly believe that every woman’s body is beautiful. The studio is truly a body positive and accepting space.
My goal is not to ‘take off twenty kilos’ with the way that I pose you. That said, I will light and pose and photograph you in a way that does your body justice.
I have been photographing women for a long time (all who were extraordinary in their own way). I’ve learnt all the tricks to ensure that I am featuring the attributes that each woman loves most about herself. My hope is that we can also create images that allow you to frame your ‘flaws’ in a different light, but your comfort level is always the most important part of your session.
