What to Wear to Your Portrait Session
What to wear? Is always the first question after a session is booked. Since most people don’t have their portraits taken very often, knowing how to dress can sometimes be a head scratcher.
I remember years and years ago, making the mistake of telling someone to wear what made them comfortable. The result was a complete disaster. Oh I made it work, don’t worry. But I’ve made sure to never again assume to know what the other person is thinking.
I can work with almost any outfit, any color, any accessory. But why not make it easier for myself and my clients. Even when I ask that clients come dressed professionally — with neatly ironed clothing – you can bet I have a steamer on hand, because life gets busy for all of us, and if I don’t have the lint roller nearby, I know you will inevitably show up with your favorite furry friends hair on your blazer. It happens.
There are a few “favorite things” that will make your professional portrait photography session easier and more polished – while still focusing on what makes you, you.
Necklines
When choosing a shirt or dress, the most important thing to consider is the neckline. Please, no big prints, no turtlenecks or collars that are too tight or too loose. And ladies, skip the cleavage revealing top. I’m also a huge fan of 3 quarter sleeves. For men, I don’t think a tie is always necessary for a session, but it should be neatly tied and fit well. I also love variety so please bring a few with you. A nicely fitted shirt (not too big) will make sure you don’t get creases, and a tie clip is going to keep your tie on point.
Accessories
Simple accessories are the best, when it doubt, bring it with you. If you are a jewelry designer, bring it on! If you are known for your statement necklaces, wear them!
As for glasses, I get asked this a lot. If you wear glasses, wear glasses in your images. It’s a part of who you are and I can work with angles to eliminate glare. Unless the glasses have transition lenses, then they will look like you are wearing sunglasses in your photos. In that case, bring other glasses that do not have transition lenses.
Color
I definitely love color! However it needs to work well with your skin and hair tones. If you are naturally pale, I would recommend Neutrals, Neutrals, Neutrals! Wearing neutrals is a very safe bet. Make sure not to go for a shade too similar to your skin tone. Aim to stick with browns and grays. These neutrals provide a balanced amount of contrast to match your skin.
Emerald Green: Any shade that has a deep tone will be extremely flattering, especially a bright but deep green. This color will provide enough contrast against your pale skin but not overly so it appears harsh. This color will suit your features, especially if you have red hair or green eyes.
Bright Blue: Just like emerald green, this deep but striking shade will be a great contrast with your skin. Different shades of blue, such as pastel, may wash you out. Aim to wear deeper shades, especially near your face and hair.
Bold Colors: Bold colors can really be eye popping and make you look full of life and color. Colors like ruby red, deep purple, dull orange and mustard yellow will sit nicely against pale skin. Avoid neon shades as they can provide too much contrast and make the skin look grey.
Olive skin tones look best with bold vibrant colors like royal blue, magenta, mustard yellow, and emerald green.
The most common skin undertones have colors that make them cool or warm. A cool undertone is made up of pink and red hints. If you naturally have rosy cheeks, you most likely have a cool undertone. A warm undertone is made up of yellow hints, often showing as either peachy or golden. A neutral undertone is a mix of cool and warm, red and yellow.
All of my clients get sent a what to wear guide that shows examples of jewelry, necklines and color combinations for both men and women. Although I want my clients to feel comfortable and as much like themselves as possible I also want them to look and feel amazing in their photos. Together we can choose outfits that will bring out your personality and flair.