When getting ready for a photo shoot, one of the most daunting questions is, “What to wear?” Aside from making sure you’re comfortable, many other factors come into play when making sure that your outfit choice is the right one. The first step in answering “What to wear?” is asking yourself, “What do you want from the photo session?” A lot depends on your taste in fashion, what you will be using the pictures for and how you think that fashion will look in 20 years. It’s so important to feel comfortable during your session and by following these tips, you’re guaranteed to get the results you’re looking for.
Stick to Basics
When beginning to choose outfit options, stick with basic color palettes and try to avoid any clothing with logos, graphics, characters, labels, etc. Clothes like this tend to take away from the “finished” look of a professional portrait.
Accessorize
Once you’ve got your basic color palette figured out, you can add accessories to add a little punch. Scarves, hats, hair bling (flowers), jewelry, sweaters, vests, and jackets can take an ordinary image and push it over the edge to feel so much more complete. However, you do want to make sure that the accessories don’t overwhelm you or the photos. Choose your accent colors and fill in the outfits with those punches of colors and accessories. Bringing a variety of accessories can help give you multiple looks without having to do many wardrobe changes. Having accessories also gives you something to interact with in the photos, which can change the entire mood of the session (in a good way!).
Layer it Up
Layers and textures are beautiful and create interesting photos. Textures can be any type of materials like tweed, crochet, embroidery details, lace, hand knit items, ribbons, ruffles, etc. Also, having different layers of clothing and accessories can add another dimension to the overall texture of the image. Enhancing the texture can be done beautifully with colorful clothing or just pops of color here and there as well, but it is important to follow your own vision and style.
Shoes Matter
Shoes matter. It’s best to avoid sneakers, unless they’re a funky pair that fit with the feel of the session. The choice of shoes can make or break an outfit. Think about coordinating those bright and colorful shoes with other accessories and clothing in the photo, especially if you are doing a session with a group. For example, you can match one person’s shoes to another person’s scarf.
Think Timeless
Try not to date yourself. It can be good to choose clothing that is timeless, depending on the intent of the photos. Whatever your style is, make sure your choice won’t look terribly dated years from now. Things like softer, neutral tones (with pops!) and classic shapes with added interest in the accessories and layers can result in beautiful and timeless images.
Location, Location
Think about your location and make sure your wardrobe compliments the surroundings. Also, consider how well the colors and patterns in the wardrobe will stand out against the backdrops of your location.
If you’re looking for some visuals on good outfit choices, check out our Pinterest board.
