What should we wear for our session?
As a photographer I want our clients to look their best in their
photos. The biggest question we get regarding portrait sessions is “
What
should we wear for our session?” Well I have created this little guide to
help you on your path to the perfect outfit(s)!
So, on to the big question:
“What should I / we wear for our photography
session?”
Things to Keep in Mind
-
Your body type. I really hate glamour magazines because they tell us women to dress like this or like that, but never make mention of what will look good on what body style. Well, I have a lot of experience in seeing women dress in things that maybe they shouldn't have. I'm not a little girl, and I never try to be. Here are a few general suggestions to help you if you are thinking about wearing the following. Remember, the camera adds at least 10 lbs, depending upon what you're planning to wear. If you are a plus sized person you should not wear clothes that are sleveless, show the mid section, or are too tight or baggy. Plain and simple. If it is uncomfortable when you wear it, it will look silly in photos. For the smaller person, follow the same rules. Really noone looks good in photos with sleveless tops, their bellies sticking out, super short shorts, and clothes that don't fit.
- Coordinate colors. Try to find fabrics and colors that look great
together without looking too “matchy”. One thing to remember is they don’t have
to be the exact same color. The same color family would work well too (example:
olive green and hunter green).
- Coordinate styles. Guys make sure you match the overall
“feel” of your girl’s outfit. If she’s wearing a dress, make yourself look a
little nicer. If she’s rockin’ some jeans and sneakers then feel free to dress the same. We have nothing against jeans and t-shirts. Really. I have taken a lot of very nice portriats with folks dressed in them, but make sure you all have somewhat the same style going on.
- Wear solids or simple patterns. Don’t over do it with the
patterns. Solid dark colors are the most flattering. Patterns are ok too, as long as they are not to loud. Black and white poka dots look bad, while neutral tone florals look nice. Understand?
- A cute summer dress is always a good way to
go for the ladies. Khaki shorts and a polo always work for guys, no matter your age, shape, or how you normally dress!
-
The layered look is always a winner for any settings.
For example:
Guys: Nice dark jeans, shoes, collared shirt a jacket to finish it off. For a more urban look, wear a jean jacket, in a rural or wooded setting go for a khaki, fall or spring jacket, or a nice sweater.
Girls: Nice jeans, paired with a tank top,
a few lightly colored t-shirst, funky jewelry and high heels. Or a skirt, with a tank top, tee, and jacket.
- Jazz up your outfit with a cute pair of heels or a funky
jewelry (or cute purse!).
(note: if you’re going to be wearing high heels,
also bring some more comfortable flip-flops or slip-ons with you for
walking because you will be on your feet a lot).
- Talk with your me about the locations you will
be shooting at so I can give specific recommendations.
-
Variety is the spice of life! It is always best to bring a
few different outfits so that you can change for your specific location. My
couples typically bring 3-5 outfits depending on the locations and how much time
we have. They almost always end up doing at least 1 wardrobe change. The easiest thing to do is wear one bottom, and multiple different tops. You can always bring several bottoms if you want though.
- Most importantly: Be comfortable and have fun with it! You
will have a much better time which will make for better photos.
Things Not to Wear
- Bright white matching shirts
- Tops with big logos or a lot
of writing on them – keep it clean and classy.
- Shirts with short hemlines
and mid-drifts. Dress for your shape.
- Super Short skirts and shorts.
- Exact
matching outfits. Look coordinated, not matching. White shirts and jeans don’t
have much personality and your engagement session is your time to let your
personality shine.
Other Ideas
Another fun way to make your session unique and fun is to bring props. For
example, some fun props are:
- Sunglasses
- A sign on a poster-board for those who your portraits are intended.
- Instruments you play
- Skateboards
- Balloons (or one big
red balloon!)
- Hats
- Your favorite cool couch or chair (Yeah, I’ll tote
around some furniture for your awesome session)
- Anything else that makes
youunique or that is special to you!
Disclaimer: I am not a stylist. Just a photographer with many years of capturing folks in what they wear. These rules of thumb are meant to be broken. If you really have a question about what to wear, call me before your shoot or bring the outfit in question along. We can always see if it works on you!
