Yana Skakun
Style Advice
What to Wear
“What should we wear?” is the question I get most often before a session. The answer isn't complicated — but the right choices genuinely make a difference to how your photos look and how confident you feel. This guide covers everything, session by session.
Family Sessions
Family Sessions — Outfit Guide
What works well
- Coordinate colours rather than matching exactly — pick 2–3 tones that work together
- Think soft neutrals: cream, sage, dusty blue, warm terracotta, whites
- Add visual interest with texture — linen, knitwear, denim, corduroy
- Dress children one step smarter than usual — they always look great in layers
- Avoid large logos, slogans, or cartoon prints that date quickly
- Check that everyone genuinely feels comfortable — fidgeting shows in photos
Better to avoid
- Everyone in identical outfits (too uniform)
- Neon or very bright colours (distracting on camera)
- Busy patterns or stripes on multiple family members
- Brand new shoes the children haven't broken in
Couples & Engagement
Couples & Engagement — Outfit Guide
What works well
- Complement each other — coordinate colours without being identical
- Layers work beautifully: a jacket, scarf or blazer adds variety across shots
- Consider bringing a second outfit for a different look mid-session
- Comfortable shoes matter — you'll be walking and sitting outdoors
- Solid colours with subtle texture photograph better than busy prints
- Dress for the season and location — autumn calls for warm tones, summer for light fabrics
Better to avoid
- Outfits that are too formal for an outdoor location (or too casual for a styled shoot)
- Matching outfits — it rarely looks natural
- Very short hemlines if you know you'll be sitting on grass or steps
- Statement jewellery that competes with your face in close-up shots
Headshots & Corporate
Headshots & Corporate — Outfit Guide
What works well
- Dress one level smarter than your typical workwear — but stay authentic to your industry
- Plain, solid-coloured tops work best: navy, grey, white, charcoal, burgundy
- A well-fitted blazer is universally flattering and adds authority
- Bring 2–3 outfit options — different necklines, colours, and levels of formality
- Ensure clothes are freshly pressed — creases and lint show clearly on camera
- Nail and hair prep matters more than most people realise
Better to avoid
- Busy patterns, thin stripes, or herringbone (they create a moiré effect on screen)
- Sleeveless tops unless your arms are part of the shot
- Very light grey if you run warm — it shows perspiration
- Outfits that don't represent your actual professional brand
Weddings
Weddings — Outfit Guide
What works well
- Bridal: choose a dress that moves beautifully — flowing fabrics photograph with dimension
- Bridesmaids: one colour in different styles can look stunning and more modern than identical dresses
- Ensure groom and groomsmen suits are freshly pressed the morning of
- Consider how accessories photograph — fine jewellery often disappears; bold pieces add detail
- Flowers and bouquets will be in many shots — coordinate colours thoughtfully
- Comfortable shoes are worth prioritising, especially if the venue has stairs or cobblestones
Better to avoid
- A dress with a very long train at a barn or outdoor venue without hard flooring
- Colour combinations that clash with your venue palette
- Overly matching groomsmen looks that feel dated
- Forgetting that your accessories, florals and stationery all appear in photos
For Every Session
Universal Rules
Always Do
- Iron or steam everything the night before
- Choose clothes you feel confident and comfortable in — it shows
- Consider the location and season when planning outfits
- Bring a small kit: lint roller, safety pins, touch-up makeup
- Try everything on together as a group before the day
- Prioritise fit over brand or price
Try to Avoid
- Wear brand-new outfits you haven't tested for comfort
- Choose stiff or restrictive clothing — you'll be moving, bending, sitting
- Forget to check the backs of outfits (especially for family portraits)
- Over-coordinate to the point of looking staged
Still not sure what to wear?
Once you're booked, I send a full personalised prep guide for your session type. You can also ask me anything beforehand — I'm genuinely happy to help you plan.
Book Your SessionGet in Touch
Ready to Book?
I'll take care of everything — including sending you a full style guide once your session is confirmed.