DRESS FOR SUCCESS | WORKFLOW WEDNESDAY | MARYLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

As we approach our reUNITED conference next weekend, I’ve been doing a lot of preparation for our attendees. We have so many surprises, amazing lectures, treats, and more in store. My heart is overflowing with excitement. This time next week, I’ll be picking up peonies and packing up swag to head to West Virginia. It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we had our first conference in Charleston, but such a wonderful feeling to know we will all be together again, SOON. With lots of familiar faces and some new ones, it’s sure to be three inspiring, jam-packed days.

This is the first segment of Workflow Wednesday and today, I wanted to tie that in to next week’s event. We have set aside some time during the conference for a massive head shot swap, and we’ve encouraged our guests to dress for their brand. To some, that might be easy! To others, maybe not. If you’re someone who’s struggled with what to wear, or feel awkward about being on the other side of the camera.. here are some tips!

“Dress shabbily and they’ll remember the dress; dress impeccably and they’ll remember the woman.” – Coco Chanel

What to Remember:

• YOU are your brand.
• Your brand is represented in your visual appearance and communication. What you wear and what you say, matters.
• We are judged on our appearance. It’s not fair, but it is life.
• Style, trends, and seasons change. Think “timeless” when planning your wardrobe.
• Your fashion sense should represent your artistic style.
  • Choose a photographer who has a similar style so that your headshots look cohesive via your marketing.
  • Take a deep breath and let it go when it’s time to shoot. Trust the person you’re working with and let them guide you. Remember that discomfort can show in photos, so the best thing you can do is let go and give in to their process.
• If you have branding words, does your wardrobe represent that?
• Look confident, but still be comfortable.
  • Do dress consistently when meeting clients. They will look for you based on the images you provide. Put simply, don’t advertise yourself one way and then show up to a session looking like the hot mess express.
• Does your outfit say professional and approachable?

How to Pick Your #OOTD:

• White is always welcome. Neutrals are classic and can keep you from going overboard.
• Use your core color.
• Utilize metallic tones in jewelry, or color-block another brand color with neutrals.
• Textiles are great within reason. Stick with one bold print and dress around it.
• More is less on camera. Don’t forget accessories to polish your look.
• Include, but sparingly:
  • Signature pieces like your camera, favorite bag, laptop, etc..
  • Personal relations like your spouse or pets.
• See my Pinspiration board here.

“There is nothing interesting about looking perfect – you lose the point. You want what you’re wearing to say something about you, about who you are.” – Emma Watson

I hope this helps! I’ve included some of my own headshots from a recent session with Natalie Franke Photography. These truly captured me, my style, and my joyous side. I loved adding these to my website, and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with to wear next weekend!

Want to see something covered on the Workflow Wednesday segment? Leave a comment on the blog and let me know!

– Ash