Photographers, if you’ve ever looked at your client closet and thought, “Why do I own six nearly identical cream dresses…and why do they all wrinkle just by existing?” Welcome. You’re among friends. I’m going to explain how you can use Nuuly to save money (and much-valued storage space).

Building a client closet is one of the fastest ways to elevate your brand, increase sales, and make clients feel taken care of. But it can also get expensive, cluttered, and outdated faster than you can say “Wait, are puff sleeves out now?” (Side note: I hope they never go out of style because I love a puffy sleeve. The puffier, the better, am I right?)

Enter: Nuuly

My secret weapon for a flexible, fashion-forward client closet without the commitment (or the storage bins).

Let’s break down exactly how I use Nuuly as a professional photographer and how you can, too.

What is Nuuly?

Nuuly is a monthly clothing rental subscription. For one flat fee (just $98), you rent six items per month from brands like Free People, Anthropologie, Farm Rio, Hutch, and more. You wear them, photograph them, spill coffee on them (not recommended, but life happens), then send them back.

No dry cleaning. Or long-term commitment. And no buyer’s remorse.

For photographers? It’s basically a styling dream.

Why Nuuly Works So Well for a Client Closet

1. You Can Offer Variety Without Overcommitting

Instead of buying pieces and hoping they photograph well across multiple body types, seasons, and sessions, Nuuly lets you test-drive wardrobe.

• Not sure if that bold floral reads “editorial” or “grandma’s couch” on camera? Rent it.
• Curious how a silky wrap dress moves during a maternity session? Rent it.
• Want elevated options for branding clients, moms, or seniors without buying for all three? Rent it.

If something becomes a client favorite? Then you can decide whether it’s worth purchasing permanently.

2. Your Client Closet Stays On-Trend (Without Trying)

Fashion changes. Fast. And nothing kills a luxury vibe faster than dresses that scream 2019 Target maternity section, am I right?

With Nuuly:

• Your options rotate monthly
• You can adapt to seasons, color trends, and silhouettes
• You’re never stuck with outdated pieces you feel guilty about not using

Clients don’t want more clothing—they want current, curated, and intentional styling. Nuuly helps you deliver that effortlessly.

3. Nuuly is Perfect for Statement Pieces

I love using Nuuly for:

• Flowing dresses with movement
• Bold patterns or prints
• Structured jackets for branding sessions
• Cozy sweaters for in-home or studio lifestyle family sessions

These are the items that make images pop—but aren’t always practical for everyday wear. Renting them makes far more sense than buying something that only works for one specific look.

How I Incorporate Nuuly Into the Client Experience

Here’s where the magic really happens.

1. I Don’t Call It “Renting”

Clients don’t need to know (or care) where the clothing lives when it’s not with them.

Instead, I position it as:

“Access to my curated client wardrobe and styling support.”

That’s it. That’s the vibe.

2. I Pre-Select Pieces for Each Client

Before a session, I’ll:

• Ask for sizes and preferences
• Rent pieces specifically with that client in mind
• Build outfits around their home, location, and session type

This makes clients feel incredibly seen—and removes decision fatigue entirely.

Luxury isn’t about more options. It’s about fewer, better ones.

Alternatively, you could create a “List” in your Nuuly profile and send the link for your clients to preview your favorite items for upcoming sessions. I suggest creating differing lists for different seasons. Clients can view all Nuuly items without needing their own account or logging in to yours!

3. I Use It to Add Value (Not Nickel-and-Dime My Clients)

I don’t charge separately for client closet access. Instead, it’s baked into my session fee and experience.

Why? Because:

• It differentiates my brand
• It supports higher artwork sales
• It reinforces that I’m full-service

Clients come to me because they don’t want to figure it all out. Nuuly helps me deliver on that promise—beautifully.

Practical Tips for Using Nuuly as a Photographer

A few things I’ve learned along the way:

• Order early so you have time for try-ons and backups
• Photograph the pieces on a hanger or styled flat lay so clients can preview options
• Stick to versatile colors if you plan to use items across multiple sessions
• Keep notes on what photographs well and what doesn’t
• Get something you LOVE and couldn’t bear to send back? Buy it from Nuuly at a discount! I’ve purchased Free People & Anthropologie dresses for as little as $30!!

Final Thoughts: Is Nuuly Worth It for Photographers?

If you:

• Offer a client closet and save money
• Want to elevate your client experience
• Offer styling support without a massive upfront investment
• Keep your work feeling fresh and fashion-forward
• Reduce clutter and sunk costs

Then yes. Absolutely!

Nuuly allows you to act like a high-end, fully styled brand without owning everything yourself.

And honestly? Your future self (and your closet) will thank you.

Want to check out Nuuly for your business (or yourself)? Use my referral link to save $20 off your first Nuuly!