What to Wear for Your “One Hour, One Story” Session
(or: How Not to Fight Your Outfit While Being Photographed)
If you're reading this, chances are you're wondering what to wear for your photo session. And since the One Hour, One Story package doesn’t include wardrobe consultation (I save that level of fashion therapy for full branding shoots), I’ve put together this field guide to dressing smart — and staying sane.
Let’s start with the golden rule:
If you can’t sit comfortably or breathe fully, it’s a no. Clothes should work with your body, not against it. We’re aiming for presence and ease, not garment survival training. So skip anything too tight, too short, or too fussy. That fitted blouse that rides up when you exhale? The pencil skirt that punishes every attempt to sit? Leave them at home. Not because I judge them (or you!) — but because they’ll steal your attention and limit what we can do in front of the camera. Uncomfortable clothes lead to one of two things:
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You constantly adjusting and hiding parts you don’t want to show, or
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You standing stiffly because sitting just isn’t an option.
Instead, think movement. Think air. Soft silhouettes, relaxed fits, wide-leg trousers, flowy skirts — garments that let you stretch, lean, curl up, breathe. That’s where the magic happens.
Now, let’s talk fabric. I love a bit of visual texture, and so does the camera. Natural materials like cotton, linen, or viscose usually photograph far better than thin polyester knits. They hold their shape, catch the light nicely, and don’t cling to every curve and corner unless you ask them to. Your beloved acrylic sweater with the pilling? So comforting — but not for the camera. Let it enjoy a well-earned day off.
And what about colour? This part is easy: if you feel good in it — wear it. I’m not afraid of colour, and I don’t want you to be either. In branding sessions, I help clients build intentional palettes (yes, even with prints and logos — if they work with the story).But since One Hour, One Story is a shorter, simpler package, here's a fallback if you're feeling unsure:Soft, low-contrast combos like dusty pink, light blue, grey, white, and beige are always safe bets — they don’t compete with your face, and they tend to behave well in natural light.
But again: if you have a bright, bold outfit that feels like you — bring it. Joy is always photogenic.
Now, the “one outfit only” part. Technically, yes — you get one look with this package. But if you like the idea of variety (and who doesn’t?), here’s a secret: layering is your loophole. Wear your outfit in smart layers and we can remove them one by one — top layer, then middle, then base — and create three completely different looks in a single session, no wardrobe changes or bathroom acrobatics required. Just don’t try doing it in reverse — adding clothes during the session tends to be more logistical theatre than visual poetry. A good formula: Palazzo pants + sleeveless top + relaxed shirt + blazer or vest. That’s comfort, versatility, and three mini-stories in one. Multiple looks for the price of one — without breaking the rules (well, not too much).
In summary:
Wear what makes you feel good. Trust your body. Avoid anything that makes you wish the session was shorter. And remember: I’ve seen a lot of people in front of the camera — nervous, radiant, awkward, glorious — and I’ll never judge you for your wardrobe. But I will help you look and feel like yourself, on your very best day. Let’s keep it simple. Let’s make it real. Let’s enjoy it. (And yes, let’s make sure you can breathe.)
