Making the most of your photoshoot — creating 5 looks with 2 base outfits

As a stylist, I work with a photographer (hi Pura Vision!) on the regular to take photos for my website, blog and social media. It’s important that I make good use of my time (and the photographer’s time) and money by getting the most out of these photoshoots.

My go-to photographer recently started mini sessions: 30-minute photo sessions with one outfit change (two outfits total). I love this idea because it is a fast way to create great looks without lots of time and money. The big challenge for me is getting the most out of two base outfits so that I have lots of material and looks that don’t get boring for my followers and clients.

In a recent mini session, I tried creating multiple looks with two base outfits. It worked really well, was fun for me (and the photographer, I think!) and gave me lots of awesome material. If you’re a blogger, business person or someone looking to maximize photos that you’re paying for - making the most of your outfits is essential to get lots of great photos.

Here are my top tips for creating lots of looks for a short photo session.

1. Choose two versatile base looks: a dress or jumpsuit in a solid color or subtle print that can easily be layered (see tip #2). Jeans or pants can pair well with a memorable top and lots of different shoes.
2. Think about layers: put a sweater over a dress or jumpsuit, then take it off and put a jacket or cardigan on instead.
3. Choose accessories to complement the looks you want to create: shoes are key here - switching up shoes and jewelry finishes each look and gives different focal points, therefore increasing the versatility of the photos. Ditto with scarves, hats, and handbags.
4. Keep hair and make-up simple/classic: keep your hair in a style that works for all the looks or can be quickly adjusted for each look. My hair is straight and fine so I like it back or down - low fuss makes the transitions quicker between looks (see tip #5).
5. Plan for quick transitions: use a big bag or a laundry basket to keep your pieces (relatively) organized so you can access quickly throughout the shoot. Putting a necklace or other jewelry in the shoes that you will wear with that look is an easy way to remember those pieces quickly.

Lastly, a full run-through of your looks isn’t necessary, but trying on most of your looks in advance of the photoshoot will help you understand which look is the best to start and end with (e.g. finish with the look you want to wear the rest of the day so you don’t have to double back to the bathroom to change again). Also, having all the pieces in order of use in the laundry basket makes things easier too - when you’re planning and trying on, use that time to put your laundry basket together. Too easy!

Still not sure how to create lots of looks? I can help! Contact me today.