The 2024 Paris Session Style Guide
Your Portrait Session in Paris
Planning your session
Choosing a perfect time, location, outfit + More
This guide is packed with my best tips, tricks and insider secrets for scheduling and styling your portrait session - and everything in between. Your only job is to be yourself, laugh a lot and let me create photos you’ll love forever. I can’t wait to get you in front of my camera!
The City of Light is oh so generous with her beauty and grace, offering her perfect settings for your photo shoot whether we are in the spring, summer, autumn or the winter.
The Hausmannian architecture, immaculately-kept public gardens, quaint cafés, the meander of the Seine, fragrant boulangeries and bakeries and cheese shops, the iconic Eiffel Tower and the famed Louvre, bustling Montmartre and stately Sacré-Cœur, les grands magazines, the romance of the Opera…so many options, so little time!
I get it! Having your picture taken might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime. And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera. But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought! The most common thing I hear from guys before portrait sessions is this: because of a bad experience in the past, they don’t like taking photos or don’t feel like they’ll be good at it. By the time the session is over, though, most guys can’t believe how fast it went and just how much fun they had! Plus, just as I promise the kiddos, the better you are the day of, the better reward you'll have after the shoot! Don't worry, I'll help negotiate on your behalf!
a note to the
Gentlemen
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When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time with me!
posing philosophy
In my experience, every woman (regardless of her size or shape) has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about. Recognizing the areas you’re self-conscious about when selecting your outfits is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos.
There's very little more romantic or flattering than a long, flowy dress. Dresses and skirts tend to look most stunning on camera because they really flatter the female body! If you choose to wear a dress or skirt, I recommend choosing long, flowy ones because they’re flattering on all body types, look amazing on camera and bring extra movement and dimension to your photos.
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Colors
Accessories
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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When choosing colors for your outfits, I recommend selecting lighter, neutral tones and more muted shades. Bright, bold or neon colors are distracting and take the focus away from where it should be: YOU! You can never go wrong with light neutral colors like cream, taupe, camel or light gray. The camera loves shades of soft pinks and muted blues, mixed with a lovely, natural green. This softer, more pastel-leaning color palette looks beautiful against the sophisticated beauty of Paris!
color palette
Colors
Accessories
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
For shoes, keep in mind that heels elongate women’s legs and force constant tension in the calves –– which makes them look more toned. Closed-toe heels, in particular, look great on camera because they carry out the line of your leg all the way down to your toe.
Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images. Whether it’s a necklace, belt, bracelet, earrings, hat, or scarf, bringing an accessory or two can bring great visual interest to your photos, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention when paired together. For example, if you go with bolder earnings, you might want to choose a more humble necklace, or maybe even no necklace at all. Fresh florals can be a really romantic touch as well!
Accessories
for the ladies
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Colors
Accessories
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
Professional hair & makeup is on the top of most of my clients’ checklists because it looks amazing on camera and removes the stress of getting ready on your own. This is the time to treat yourself! Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better for humidity and wind.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
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Colors
Accessories
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
There will probably be times during your session when I'm focusing on your hands, i.e. holding hands or at a café with an espresso - which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!).
And while you're at it, it’s a good idea to have your rings cleaned or clean them yourself before your shoot! To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
Manicure
for the ladies
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Colors
Accessories
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
Even though taking photos might not be his favorite thing... YOU ARE! Most men aren’t overly excited to take photos, mostly because they don’t have an expectation of what’s to come and why it’s so important to you. This is why I recommend sitting down together for fifteen minutes to educate and empower your man. Tell him why you chose me and my style of photography. Show him your favorite session that I’ve done, explain why you love the photos so much and express to him how much this session means to you. Trust me, if he loves you, he’ll bring his A-game and light up the camera for you!
before the session
for the gents
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Wardrobe
Details
Layers
Prep
The same way that a dress is the most flattering silhouette for the female body, a blazer, sport coat or jacket has the same flattering effect for men. You can’t go wrong with a dress shirt, slacks and a blazer.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on his skin.
Long sleeves are more flattering than short sleeves on men. The other benefit to long sleeves is that we can roll the sleeves up for a slightly more casual look, which gives you two looks with one shirt.
Wardrobe Tips
for the gents
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Wardrobe
Details
Layers
Prep
When selecting an outfit for photos, the most important part is the fit. For men, it’s important to have a jacket that fits snugly (but not too tight), and pants that are the correct length.
Long pants with closed-toed shoes is the most sophisticated and masculine look for a man. They draw attention away from your legs and feet, and place it where you want it: on your face! So, for your session, it’s best to leave the shorts and sandals at home. Dress pants, colored pants or nice dark-washed jeans work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, whether you’re wearing slacks, colored pants or dark-washed jeans. As opposed to athletic shoes, dress shoes, help elevate your photos and will give them a more editorial look.
Details Matter
for the gents
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Wardrobe
Details
Layers
Prep
The next time you walk by a store like men's clothing store, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, it’s worth a moment of discomfort for photos that will last you a lifetime. Adding extra layers will bring additional dimension and visual interest to your photos. If the temperature permits, you could even consider adding a v-neck sweater with a pop of color from a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath, or bringing a leather or denim jacket with you. Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with layers!
Layered Looks
for the gents
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Wardrobe
Details
Layers
Prep
Make sure that the children can move freely in their outfits and that they aren’t going to be pulling and scratching at their new clothes. You want them happy and comfortable, not grouchy and miserable during the shoot! Kids who help dress themselves will not only be much happier campers when shooting time comes, but you’ll let their own beautiful personalities shine through in the images. Also, try not to make kids change outfits more than a couple times – another reason all those layers and accessories can be handy. The same goes for you – make sure that you select an outfit that makes you feel stunning and relaxed. Beware of new clothes bought “to grow into”; shirts hanging from shoulders and cuffs turned back can look untidy, better to wear an old favorite.
Wardrobe Tips
for the littles
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Colors
Don't Match
Session Prep
No Stress
Outfits
The goal for coordinating a family’s outfits is to visually break up the colors and shades so that you’re not all wearing the same color on top and bottom (like everyone in blue jeans with white shirts). The more you can mix it up, the better! I encourage you to think about planning each outfit with “dominant colors” and “accent colors” in mind. A dominant color is the color that you see the most in an outfit, while an accent has a smaller piece of visual real estate. When you’re planning each family member’s outfit, if you can aim for each person to have a different dominant color, and then tie in and vary the accent colors, it’ll look great all together.
Coordinating Colors
for the littles
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Colors
Don't Match
Session Prep
No Stress
Outfits
Please do keep in mind that your outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In fact, I recommend that you avoid thinking about “matching,” and instead think about what “fits” together. This will create more visual interest, and allow each personality to shine through.
If you have multiple children, don’t feel like you need to put them all in the same type of outfit. For example, if one of your daughters wears a dress and flats, the other can wear a skirt and boots, if that’s more her style. If one of your sons wears a bowtie, the other can wear suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring even more visual interest to the photos.
Don't Match
for the littles
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Colors
Don't Match
Session Prep
No Stress
Outfits
Before your session, pack a bag with water and your kids’ favorite snacks. If they’re too young to follow directions, bring any objects that you think might help me get their attention (like small toys or stuffed animals) when it’s time for them to look at the camera. It also helps if your kids' bellies are full and they’ve had some good rest before the session.
If your little ones are old enough to understand you, explain how much the photos mean to you so they know to be on their best behavior. A lot of families pick something fun to do –– as a treat after the session –– if their kiddos are good listeners. Like letting them choose the next activity, a special kid-themed tour, or checking out the best ice cream in Paris!
Session Prep
for the littles
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Colors
Don't Match
Session Prep
No Stress
Outfits
After you do your best to prepare them, give yourself (and them) some grace! I have a lot of experience working with kids, so if they’re “in a mood” or aren’t cooperating perfectly for some reason, rest assured that I’m not judging you (or them). I’ve seen it all and know how to get great photos no matter what! My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family! This season of life feels long right now, but in the grand scheme of things, it's short. So even if things don't go exactly as planned or as you'd hoped in terms of your kids’ behavior, one day, you’ll be so glad you took these photos.
Stress-Free Zone
for the littles
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Colors
Don't Match
Session Prep
No Stress
Outfits
This stunning location gives us a perfect, straight-on view of the Eiffel Tower. It is by far, my most requested shooting location! But be aware, it gets crowded earlier than any other route! So be prepared to wake up early as it is only possible to shoot there the first three hours after sunrise. You'll thank me in the end, though, because when you visit it again in the evening, you'll understand why it's so much more magical at sunrise!
location inspiration
trocadero
My gentlemen love this stunning two-level bridge, also known as the Inception Bridge! I love this alternative view of the Eiffel Tower as we have everything all in one little area - the Eiffel Tower, of course, but also amazing Parisian architecture, the metro passing above us, the Seine River flowing below, and a great way to add something modern to your shoot with the incredible bridge itself! Plus, we can shoot there later in the day! So this location is ideal if you MUST sleep in!
location inspiration
Bir Hakeim
The Louvre brings history alive! Every time I stroll through the corridors or wander across the courtyard, I start to imagine who might have walked these halls before me. The architecture is divine, and has such an enchanting old Parisian feel. Plus, on Tuesdays, the museum is closed, so we will have far fewer tourists in the background. If we get there early enough, we might even have the place to ourselves!
location inspiration
The Louvre
This fun spot is like my little Parisian secret - no joke, I once took a friend who was born and raised in Paris, and he'd never once seen it! The Palais Royal has everything you love about Paris in one palace garden: modernity vs. history, amazing fountains, perfectly trimmed trees, and gorgeous blooms! The Palais Royal opens at 7:30 am and with its close proximity, is a perfect second location if we are starting at the Louvre!
location inspiration
Palais Royal
I'll give you a high-five if you can give me a little Amelie reference! Montmartre has everything I ever imagined Paris to be with its winding cobblestoned streets, artists painting at Place du Tertre and the wisteria growing as we head down Rue de l'Abreuvoir on our way to the most epic view of the Sacre Coeur. This village within Paris is absolutely exceptional as we start in front of the basilica on a hill and watch the golden rays bathe the city.
location inspiration
Montmartre
The Marais has long been the home of the French aristocrats, and you can tell by some of the stunning historical buildings that are still standing today. As we wander through these historical streets, we will see noble-built urban mansions, the Royal Square, and today's Parisian chic and stylish with gorgeous boutiques and fun cafés. The Marais is the Instagrammer's dream and the perfect place to capture your solo trip!
location inspiration
The Marais
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For most of my sessions, outdoor, open-air environments are always my first choice. I love shooting in wide-open spaces because the light is divine, especially during golden hour. There are great options all around the city, so even if you've never seen me photograph in a specific spot before, I'm always up for exploring a new spot together! My clients have secured permission to some pretty amazing places in the past. If you get stuck or need inspiration, check my Instagram page and keep browsing through this guide. I have some great go-to locations that we can always hit, too. Just let me know which photos you love, and what type of location you’d like to feature, and we will go from there!
off the beaten path
Fun Photo Shoot Locations
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is there such a thing as
I believe that natural light, from the sun and its reflections, creates photographs that feel fresh, timeless and truest to you. I schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to a session, please know that the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
To get the most out of your session, please plan a buffer when getting ready so you can arrive a few minutes early to your session and be ready to start on time.
a "Good" Time to Take Photos
time and light
In spite of the heat, I'm a big fan of Summer sessions! The light is so striking, and the longer days provide for earlier start times (with fewer tourists)! If you’re taking your photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a some water to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
summer
Sunny Days That Never End
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Fall is one of my favorite seasons in Paris as the leaves start changing colors, and the Summer heat dies down. But the tourists are still here a-plenty, so if you will be booking a fall photo session, I recommend booking early in order to get that prime sunrise slot!
Fall
Colorful Leaves + Snuggles
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If you’re planning to book your session during the winter, I recommend dressing in layers and bringing a jacket that you don't mind being in the pictures so you never have to worry about being too cold. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running.
winter
Hot Cocoa + Cozy Coats
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What to do if it rains?
The weather is so fickle in Paris! I’ll check in the week of your session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. However, even if the forecast shows a 100% chance of rain, we can't tell what we will get until the morning of.
I can definitely be flexible with you and always leave slots open in case of rain, but if your itinerary is packed, take a chance! We have what I call café weather. Often times, we can pop into a café, and by the time we are finished with our drinks, the shower has passed! Worst case scenario, we can always change the location!
Or if you're up for it, we can embrace the weather - bring a fun umbrella and sneak some romantic kisses in the rain!
weather
Inclement
I believe in beauty, creativity, and the collaborative process. My job isn’t to tell you what you need, but rather to listen to your vision and walk beside you to make that vision become a reality. As a creative consultant, I love to tell stories vibrantly.
I love what I do almost as much as I love working with my incredible clientele. Listening to your ideas is truly what makes me successful; if it weren’t for the ideas my clients bring to the table, my work would not be one tenth of what it is today.
Storytelling
My process is simple: to listen, to create a plan, and then take action together alongside my clients. This is a true collaboration! And the more you want to be involved, the better I believe the final outcome will be! My clients say that I’m highly communicative, and I think this is such an important part of the creative process. Whether you live a three minute walk from me or halfway across the globe, open communication is critical to thefinal result.
Collaboration
If you still have some niggling questions that aren't answered in our communications or this guide, I am more than happy to schedule a free initial consultation so that we may get to know each other better and I may learn more about your vision and the scope of the proposed project. Most of my client collaborations begin with a video chat. I will come with an open mind and an enthusiasm for hearing your ideas!
Communication
shoot
A Successful
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Those last details.
Before the shoot, try to avoid late nights, fatty foods, chocolate, and alcohol (I know, it's France!). The day before the shoot, don’t forget to hydrate a lot! And why not try a face mask the night before? Then get lots and lots of sleep!
I recommend having everything laid out the night before to make sure that everything is ready to go and you don't have to think about anything - especially for an early session!
Quick tips for your final prep
a couple days out
I know I just gave you a lot to think about. I created this guide to help make your portrait session experience something you’ll look back fondly on for years and years to come. At the end of the day, though, the location you choose and the outfits you select won’t matter nearly as much as the memories you make together. I want your session to be a time for you to just be yourselves and enjoy it. Have fun together. Laugh a lot. And I’ll take care of the rest! If there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation please don't hesitate to reach out.
Email Me
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Final
Timeless and romantic images for the modern francophile