WHAT to WEAR Guide
WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR TO THE PHOTO SESSION?
Regardless of the session type, wear what you feel great in!
We stay away from cliche poses and busy backgrounds so it's a good idea to stay away from cliche clothing options and busy patterns.
Bring the clothes that express who you are, what your style is, and how you live.
If in doubt, go for classic & timeless rather than what is fashionable at the moment.
GENERAL RULES:
Avoid crazy colors, busy patterns, stripes, and logos;
Avoid the color red in groups unless you really want to stand out;
Don't wear clothes with minimal coverage. Exposed skin can easily become a focal point.
Remove anything that doesn’t add to the outfit, and empty your pockets to keep from wrinkling and bunching.
Black is slimming; Similar tones go well together in a group portrait;
Bring a few different jackets, shirt, blouses for a change of looks;
Avoid makeup with shimmer or products with lots of sparkle or shine;
Bring lip balm, hair brush, makeup and hair products you prefer;
Be sure to groom your hands and nails as they are often in the frame.
FAMILIES:
I like to keep the focus on the subject; therefore, simple clothing choices are best for creating timeless portraits. Feel free to bring a change of clothes if you're up for it.
Choose Comfort.
Wear clothes that fit. If you’re tucking, pinning, or squeezing into an outfit, if the outfit ‘rides up’ or down, shows sweat, shows underwear lines or bra straps, or wrinkles easily, don’t wear it. These things will show up in photographs and can be difficult to Photoshop out.
Wear clothes that reflect your style. In addition to wearing clothes that fit physically, wear clothes that you also feel comfortable in mentally. A portrait session is not the time to make a bold fashion statement or try an outfit you’d never wear in public. If you feel comfortable, you’ll look comfortable. If you feel like you’re wearing a costume, you’ll look like you’re wearing a costume.
Dress kids in clothes they love. For family photo shoots, dress your kids in clothes that they love. Don’t force kids to wear something that they don’t like. We want to keep them happy during the session. In addition, make sure your kids are fed and bring snacks and treats to keep everyone happy. Schedule your session after nap-time to bring out the sweet, happy nature of your children.
Consider Your Environment
Identify your environment color palate. One of the best ways to choose your color palette is to first determine if your photo shoot environment has cool or warm tones. For example, an orchard in the fall has yellow, orange, and red warm tones; a beach in the spring has blue, green, and white cool tones.
Dress for the season/weather. After you’ve thought about the color palate of your environment, think about the clothes that make the most sense in those environments. Dress for the season and the time of day. If you’re too cold or too hot, it will be apparent in photos, especially if there are children involved. For example, the orchard will work best with casual boots, scarves, and layers. The beach location will go better with delicate flowing clothes, lighter material, sandals or bare feet.
Consider your photo display. Lastly, keep in mind the environment in which you’ll be hanging your printed portraits. Consider the color palette of your home and pick a season and outfits that match the color scheme so that when you print the images and hang them on your walls, they’ll look right at home and add to your décor.
Here are some color-coordinating ideas on Pinterest.
COUPLES:
Engagement sessions are all about showing you as a loving couple that loves to be together and your clothes should allow you to be comfortable and secure. Outfit changes are strongly recommended and we suggest bringing a bag. Starting with a casual outfit and moving on to something more dressed up (think Sunday brunch with the extended family) is a good way to go. Finish it off with your dressed to kill 'going out' outfit.
SENIORS:
Senior sessions are all about showing who you are and what makes you unique at this time in your life. Jerseys, uniforms, everyday jeans and tops, and a variety of details like your favorite shoes, sunglasses, etc. are all great. Just like engagement portrait sessions, we will have a chance to move through a series of outfits and it's great to start off casual, go on to something more formal (grandma will want to see it), and finish with your best look.
Professional Portrait tips for women
Go with long or 3/4 length sleeves unless you want to show off your arms, in which case, sleeveless can rock!
Avoid horizontal stripes; They have a widening effect.
V-necks look better than traditional collars
Floppy necklined tops can be tricky; be sure to bring an alternative
Button-downs and crewnecks should be avoided unless you have a long neck
Pearls are almost always a great option
Blouses with collars that lie flat over a jacket make a great look
Layering is good for portraits; a cool jacket over a tight-fitting shirt is rocking
Fitted tops look better than loose fitting clothing
Do a crossed arms test with everything you want to wear; if you can't cross your arms comfortably without the shoulders riding up, leave it at home
Specific portrait tips for men
Formal portraits call for darker clothes. Lighter colors are generally better for informal portraits and engagement sessions
Avoid wearing a jacket that is much lighter than what you're wearing underneath
If it's your style, crewneck sweaters look great on guys
