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STYLE GUIDE

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How to prepare for your session

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A strong portrait begins before you arrive at the studio. Wardrobe, color, and small details have a significant impact on the final result. This guide will help you make simple choices that translate well on camera.

The principle is straightforward: fewer distractions, more presence.

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Colors that work best

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Portraits read strongest with clean, neutral, timeless tones.

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Dark neutrals — convey authority and elegance: black, navy, charcoal, deep green, dark brown

Light neutrals — bring luminosity and freshness: white, ivory, beige, sand, light grey

Solid colors — work well when paired with neutrals: deep red, slate blue, olive green, terracotta

Avoid: large prints, visible logos, fluorescent colors, fine stripes, busy patterns

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Recommended wardrobe

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You don't need many options. Two or three well-considered looks is ideal.

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Women — structured pieces tend to photograph particularly well: tailored blazer, simple dress, white or beige blouse, feminine suit, blazer over a neutral top. Keep jewelry minimal. Solid colors over prints.

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Men — the key is a clean, well-fitted look: full suit, blazer with a dress shirt, blazer over a neutral tee, white or light blue shirt. Everything should be pressed. No visible logos. A blazer almost always works.

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PolaroidS

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Polaroids are simple reference shots that show your natural appearance — no styling, no production.

Wear: a white or black t-shirt, jeans or neutral trousers, no prints. Keep makeup minimal or none. Simple hair. The goal is to see you as you are.

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Personal preparation

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Small details make a real difference.

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Everyone: wear clean, pressed clothes — avoid wrinkled fabric. Get a good night's sleep before the session.

Men: trim or shave cleanly. A recent haircut (3–5 days before is ideal) photographs well.

Women: light or professional makeup. Under-eye concealer. Moisturizer on skin and lips before arriving. Clean, well-kept hair. Nails in neutral tones.

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What to bring

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Plan on two looks. A rough framework:

Look 1 — formal or professional

Look 2 — smart casual

Look 3 (optional) — more relaxed or creative

We'll assess which works best once we see them against the light and background.

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During the session

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You don't need to know how to pose. I'll guide you through the entire process — posture, gaze, small adjustments — until we find what works for you. Your job is to arrive and be present.

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The result

The goal is portraits that are clean, timeless, and intentional. Images that work across: LinkedIn, professional profiles, press and editorial, presentations, portfolios

© Copyright javi alvarez

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