In my 10 years as a family photographer I have come to LOVE utilizing a client closet! This is a great way to make the session process easier for families and maintain a consistent look within my work.
What is it?
A family photographer’s client closet is a collection of clothing that can be used by my clients at no cost to you! I have collected mostly dresses in all sizes so you don’t have to go out and buy a dress that you may not end up wearing again. I have specifically picked things that photograph well and that people also like to wear. I have a handful of neutral shirts/pants/shorts for boys as well. Those things typically are cheaper and more likely to be used again though so I don’t prioritize them!
How does it work?
About 1-2 months before your session I will check in on styling. If you have an idea in mind, great! If not, I am available to coordinate as much of the process as you would like. Generally I start with mom. (If mom doesn’t feel 100% then the photos won’t get printed.) I will get an idea of what you enjoy wearing and what direction your session vibe is going in. From there I will use IG messenger or Marco Polo to show you what I have in your sizes. After we have mom’s options sorted we can move onto everyone else. I tend to have a mix of solids and patterns in my client closet to suit many different styles. If I don’t have something you love, I am open to shopping around! I can also shop specifically for your family if that sounds like the less stressful option. Once we have some options I will stop by for you to try things one. If your session is happening soon, I will leave everything with you. After your session I have a changing tent for everyone to change out of borrowed clothes (to make the return process smoother).
What types of clothing do you have?
Here is an example of a lot of the things in the client closet!
For Photographers: How to start a client closet
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when starting a client closet. Don’t buy anything until you have someone committed to wearing it for a session. It is SO EASY to spend hundreds if not thousands on clothes that no one ends up wearing. After you have successfully ran a few sessions with a few pieces you will have a better idea what people want to wear and borrow and what you like to photograph. Each year I make note of what I wish I had on hand and purchase during black friday sales.
Where do I shop for items?
These are a few of the places I shop most for client closet items! Indie Blue, Raised by Water, Vici, H&M, Zara, Joyfolie, Target for basics.
One very big reason I have a client closet is to use for portfolio building. I am quite frequently throwing together sessions last minute to do something creatively or to fill an empty spot in my calendar. Having clothing on hand helps make this really easy!
