I love straight-on portraits. Lightly styled, with the right outfit, makeup, and hair done, a direct portrait lets the person be the whole story. This editorial session in downtown Los Angeles was exactly that.

Navy Satin, Big Curls, and a Simple Backdrop

We kept the styling simple. She wore a navy satin wrap dress with a pleated neckline and a gold buckle belt, and her long curls had tons of volume. Warm, neutral makeup and peach nails finished the look. The setting was a set of concrete steps in front of a gray door, and I love how the deep navy looks against the soft gray and white concrete. It lets the outfit and her hair do the talking.

What to Wear for an Editorial Portrait Session

For an editorial portrait, choose solid, rich colors over busy prints, and pick one standout fabric like satin, silk, or velvet. Keep accessories simple, like a single belt or a pair of earrings. Have your hair and makeup done before the shoot so the look feels finished on camera.

Using Flash in the Daylight

I used flash in the daylight for this shoot. It gave her skin a clean, even glow, brought out the shine in the satin, and kept the colors rich while the background stayed soft.

Does Flash Work in Daylight?

Yes. Bright sun creates harsh shadows under the eyes and chin, and flash fills those in. It keeps skin tones clean, makes colors look richer, and means you don’t have to face the sun and squint. The result looks polished without looking overlit.

A Natural in Front of the Camera

This was her first time in front of the camera for a shoot like this, and she was a natural. I directed her through a few simple poses, sitting on the steps, leaning in, and hand to chin, and she made each one her own. Some frames are serious and direct, and then there’s that smile.

What If It’s Your First Photo Session?

You don’t need any modeling experience. I give simple direction on where to sit, how to angle your body, and where to place your hands, and we adjust as we go. We start with easy poses and build from there, just like we did on these steps.

Portrait and Editorial Sessions in Santa Monica and Los Angeles

I photograph portrait, branding, and editorial sessions in Santa Monica, West LA, South Bay (LA) and throughout Los Angeles, including downtown. Whether you have done this before or it’s your first time, I will guide you through posing so you can relax and enjoy the session.

You can see more of my portrait and fashion work here. To learn more about my sessions, visit my photography services page, or contact me here to plan your shoot.