Tips for Photography Wardrobe Styling on a Budget

Consider how clothing layers can completely change an outfit and vibe. This can add great dimension to your photos.

A professional photo shoot is worth investing in - quality matters, and whether you’re looking for branding photos for your business or personal portraits for your family, choosing an experienced, qualified photographer can make all the difference in getting photos you love. When it comes to your wardrobe for the photo shoot, on the other hand, you don’t have to spend a pretty penny to look fantastic. Try these tips for putting together a photo shoot wardrobe that looks great on you AND your wallet.

Choose Staples with Layers

If you’re going for a few different looks in your photo shoot, you don’t have to have multiple full outfits. You’d be amazed by how different the same dress can look if it’s styled two ways with different layers and accessories. Choose basic staples for your wardrobe and then bring a few layering options to play with.

Explore Your Photographer’s Client Closet

Some photographers have what we call a “client closet,” a selection of items that our clients can wear during their photo shoots. This can be a perfect way to supplement your wardrobe for your photos! When we’re working together to plan your photo shoot outfits, you can see the selection I have and incorporate these pieces into your outfits.

Reimagine Your Existing Wardrobe

So many of us have pieces in our wardrobe that are “almost” perfect for a photo shoot…but there’s just something about them we don’t love. You might be surprised by how much you can change their looks by just styling them differently.

Sometimes the most simple option of a nice shirt and slacks can do wonders for photos! Keep it simple and authentic to how you would actually show up in person.

Have a dress that’s beautiful but is a little too big or too drapey? A clip in the back can solve that, or a belt around the waist. Maybe you have a top that has a fantastic color and neckline but it’s sleeveless so it’s too casual on its own. Adding a blazer on top of it can make it perfect.

Check Out Your Local Thrift Store

If you’re not finding the right pieces in the options you already have, there are always treasures to be found at your local thrift stores! Go on a shopping excursion and see what high-quality pieces you can find at a great price.

Looking Your Best Without Busting the Bank

A lot goes into a successful photo shoot that paints you in the best light, and whether these are portraits you’ll hang in your home or branding photos you’ll use to market your business, you want to love them. Your wardrobe is part of this, and that’s why wardrobe planning is part of the full-service photography experience I provide. I’ll sit down with you and talk through how you want to look in your photos and even help you look through your closet to put together the perfect outfits for your shoot, without the need to spend a dime on new pieces.

To learn more or to start planning your photo session, contact Jaimié Birtel Photography and let’s chat!