What should I wear to my photo shoot?
I think this is the most popular question I get! First thing to know, every photographer is different and what may work well for some styles of photography may not work well for others. Based on my last ten years of photographing in a number of locations with a number of different subjects and also creating a photography style that is specific to me, here are some thoughts that I have…
For colors, consider the style of shoot you are going for
If you are wanting to keep in line with a simple/minimalistic look, then I suggest neutral colors and textures. I’d think along the lines of colors that are more muted than bright. You can choose textures with a small pattern, but are not too flashy. Keep in mind that you and the emotion you portray are the main stars of your shoot, not the colors and patterns on your clothes.
Consider dressing monochromatically to elevate your look while keeping simple colors as your main palette. Read more here.
If you are wanting a shoot that is light, bright, happy, and energetic and you want to stand out from the backdrop, then choose textures and patterns that portray a brighter look. When it comes to bright colors, I do tend to edit with more muted tones. So any bright colors tend to be toned down a little when your photos are edited.
Keep in mind that bright neon colors (oranges, yellows, bright reds) and strong patterns (like smaller stripes that are close together) can reflect back onto your skin and cause odd discoloration.
Think classic and modern, but not trendy
We all know that styles and trends come and go. I mean, I feel like I have a new version of my style every year. What I wore for a shoot 5 years ago may not make it into my photo shoot this year.
But, that’s not the kind of style I’m talking about when I say “trendy.” What I’m talking about are the outfits you look back at and say “what was I thinking when I chose to buy and wear that?!”
If you have something in your closet that you aren’t quite sure about, don’t add it to your photo shoot wardrobe. Pick an outfit that you know will be a staple for the next couple of years, not one that you know you won’t like 6 months from now.
Be comfortable
I cannot stress this one enough! If you feel uncomfortable in your clothes, then you will look uncomfortable in your photos.
Choose something something that's easy to move in and comfortable for you to wear while sitting in a chair or on the studio floor.
I know that some outfits photograph better with a subject standing and sitting on a stool than they might with someone sitting on the ground. That’s totally fine! Bring options and we will plan different poses with the outfits you bring.
Shoes are completely up to you
This is 100% your personal preference!
A couple of things to consider:
If you’re coming in for a session with more than one person, the color and style of shoes can sometimes be difficult to coordinate with everyone. Barefoot can be a consistent and worry-free option.
I tend to take photos closer to the subject and less full-length shots. Your feet may or may not be in the photos.
If you’re going barefoot, make sure you take a quick minute for maintenance on your toenails and nail polish before the shoot.
I am always barefoot in life and tend to be barefoot in photos. And, honestly, I have the strangest feet! I just don’t make it a thing I worry about.
Movement
If you have a flowy dress or fluttery kind of top, these can add some dimension and variance to your look. Don’t shy away from a piece of clothing that has a little movement and fun personality. I love some twirls!
This can also be something to add to your session if you are feeling nervous or like you may be awkward in front of the camera. Add a piece of clothing that moves can take the focus from you. But don’t worry, I won’t let you hide behind your swinging dress for long!
Headshot Sessions
There are several things to consider when putting together your headshot wardrobe. Follow this link to my blog post specifically written on what to wear for your headshots.
Maternity Sessions
There are so many options for what you can wear to your maternity session, so I wrote an entire blog post on it! Click here to see all of my ideas and opinions.
Senior Sessions
Every senior session is different and every subject has a unique personality I love to highlight!
Follow along here to read about all things outfits, accessories, and my advice on what may work best.
Family Sessions
Aim to coordinate, not match
For family shoots, this is a really great way to complement each other without looking like a traditional white shirt and khaki bottom beach session. Sometimes, it's easiest to figure out what one person will wear and go from there. If you have little ones, think of outfits that can move in and out of positions with ease and also not get too wrinkled.
Another strategy is to think of where you may put these photos after the session. Is there a room in your home that you’d love to hang a large framed family photo or even create a gallery wall? Coordinating with these rooms can also help with your outfit choices.
Branding Sessions
Bring options so that YOU have more options! This is the time for you and your business to shine! So, plan on a couple of different outfit options that portray how you want people to see you and your business.
Is it casual and fun? Friendly and approachable? Modern and professional? Think about the content you want to have on your website and your social media and bring outfit options that you feel represent you and your company. Photographing different outfits with various backdrops will give you even more content marketing options for your social media and website.
I’ve written an entire post on how to best prepare for your branding session with a whole section on outfit ideas. Click here to read more!