What to Wear to a Photoshoot

Perhaps you’ve already had your consultation, you’ve prepared when to show up, when to pay, where to shoot, and what style your photographer typically presents. But have you ever thought about what to wear to a photoshoot? Is your problem that you feel overwhelmed by all the options and completely lost in the possibilities? Clothing may be the top concern for some people, but many still overlook what to wear when they plan to capture, display, or pass on moments to loved ones long after. Deciding what to wear to a photoshoot doesn’t need to be stressful, but you should consider it as part of your preparation for the photoshoot.

In photography, the choice of clothing not only affects the visual effect of the photos, but also enhances your confidence and comfort. Whether you’re attending an important photoshoot or just recording the moments of your daily life, knowing how to choose the right clothing can make your photos more attractive.

What Not to Wear to a Photoshoot
When taking a photoshoot, there are some clothing choices that should be avoided to ensure the best results for the photos. First, avoid wearing overly bright or fluorescent colors, which may reflect light and cause distortion in the photos. Second, a lot of complex patterns and stripes will interfere with the visual focus and make the photos look messy. Avoid wearing clothing that is too baggy or tight to take away from your overall look and comfort. Also avoid too many accessories, especially those that are noticeable and distracting. Also, avoid choosing outdated fashion pieces to keep your photos classic and timeless.

I strongly recommend that you avoid baseball caps and hoodies with logos, brands, cartoons, or public figures. This also applies to children - your little princess may look super cute in a Frozen shirt, but do you really want to memorialize a free advertisement for a Disney movie on your mantel? Do you want to look back on that time in your child's life and see not only your child's smiling face, but also the animated face of a Disney icon that was only 5 inches away from her?

Aside from obvious brands, logos, or advertisements, the big no-no for your clothing is overly busy patterns or colors. Your favorite everyday shirt may be a rainbow-colored plaid shirt, but I can guarantee that this shirt will not look as amazing in a family photo as it does in a full-length mirror. Some photographers may recommend wearing plaid, stripes, or bright colors for occasional shoots. Even so, your photographer will consider how all of the clothes will compliment each other. Photographers will plan the subject and style of the shoot to ultimately reflect their brand (yes, photographers have a brand). Avoid small stripes, high contrast patterns, and safety orange hoodies. These types of patterns create an eye-catching and unflattering pattern in the photo.

The final dressing mistake is dressing too casually. I’m not saying you should dress in your best tuxedos and evening gowns, although there are some shoots where that’s appropriate. Specifically, avoid tank tops that show bra straps, white tees with slight sweat stains, off-the-shoulder tops, sweatpants, hats, and sweatshirts. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. But unless you’ve discussed/planned otherwise, you can rule these types of outfits out. Definitely don’t wear an all-white t-shirt and jeans outfit. Not only is that a little too casual, it’s completely uncreative and, at this point, way too over the top.

What to Wear to a Photoshoot
So you can’t wear your favorite sweatshirt, your favorite political sweatshirt, or your most comfortable sweatpants. So what else can you wear? Luckily, you still have plenty of options!

What you wear depends on the season, environment, occasion, and your unique personality. It is always a safe practice to keep in touch with the photographer to discuss the clothing for the shoot, but if there is no specific instruction, here are some general ideas about clothing for the shoot:

Choose clothing according to the shooting scene
Different shooting scenes require different styles of clothing to make the photos more harmonious and natural.
Natural scenery scenes
If you plan to take photos in natural scenery such as mountains, forests, and beaches, then comfortable, lightweight clothing that blends with the tones of nature is a good choice. For example, a loose white linen dress, gently fluttering in the breeze, contrasting with the blue sky, white clouds, blue sea and green mountains, creates a fresh and elegant atmosphere. Or a pair of khaki overalls with a simple blue denim shirt, showing a casual and comfortable feeling. In addition, choosing some patterns with natural elements, such as flowers, leaves, etc., can also allow you to better integrate into the natural environment.
City street scenes
City street scenes are usually full of modern and fashionable atmosphere, so you can be bolder and more individual in your outfit. A black leather jacket with tight jeans and high heels shows a cool urban style. Or choose a colorful suit, such as a red suit, with exquisite accessories, and instantly become the focus on the bustling streets. For friends who like casual style, a loose sweatshirt with sweatpants and sneakers, plus a baseball cap, is also a very fashionable and comfortable choice.
Retro architectural scene
When you are in an ancient castle, palace or street with historical charm, retro-style clothing will make your photos more storytelling. An elegant fishtail skirt, paired with a retro lace top and a wide-brimmed hat, seems to take you back to that elegant era. Or wear a cheongsam with classical patterns and leave a beautiful figure in the quaint buildings.

Keep accessories and jewelry simple, or don't wear them at all.
Stick to solid, soft colors - earth tones, soft jewel tones, monochrome, beige and taupe are good examples.
Low-contrast clothing (if your shirt is pure white, choose light-colored bottoms.)
Highlight your figure - don't wear clothes that are too tight or too loose, and don't wear clothes that show that you are not confident. Wear something that makes you feel beautiful.
Wear sleeves or three-quarter sleeves if the weather permits. In my experience, the most insecure aspect of the women I photograph is the appearance of their arms. Covering their arms may draw attention away from them while also accentuating their figures.
Wear long skirts, pants, or dresses. Long, flowing skirts photograph beautifully, and you will be so happy wearing them!
Wear your hair however you like, but generally avoid ponytails. Generally, the looser and more flexible the hairstyle, the better!
Coordinate your outfits – In group photos, try to keep everyone consistent, with a 2-4 color palette. The best advice I recommend when starting family outfit planning is to pick one piece of clothing that has a few colors (like a dress for mom or daughter), and then pick colors from that for everyone else to wear. Dress like you are going together.

Women
Ladies, the most important thing to wear when doing headshots is the neckline. I recommend bringing tops and dresses with asymmetrical or modest necklines (save the cleavage for boudoir photos). A round neckline is elegant, classic, and professional. V-necks tend to give a more casual feel and are generally less flattering on the shoulders and chest. Round necks are my favorite because they draw attention to your eyes.
Bring at least one dress to your session! Dresses with thicker materials will resist wrinkling more than thinner ones. You can definitely go with a patterned or colorful dress.
Bring your jewelry! I will help you match your jewelry to your outfit when you arrive at the venue.
Avoid shirts with collars unless it is part of your specific attire for work
Wear light makeup, especially avoid heavy makeup.
Bring solid neutrals and basic colors so we can mix and match.

Men
Bring options! Bring different ties, different shirts, different blazers.
For casual headshots or actor headshots, bring basic soft tees and long-sleeved shirts.
Wear white, gray, black, and taupe. Avoid bright neon colors.
Do not wear foundation or powder.
Groom your hair and/or facial hair.
Why?
At this point, you should have an idea of ​​what to wear for a photo shoot, but you may still be wondering why I make these suggestions. All of these suggestions are for the same reason: to draw attention to your face, not your clothes. The best clothing choices are those that don't draw attention to your face.

There is no set answer to what to wear for a photo shoot, but it depends on the subject of the photo shoot, the occasion, your personal style, and your comfort level. By understanding the requirements of the photo shoot, choosing the right colors and styles, using accessories wisely, and preparing and trying on clothes in advance, you can show your best self in front of the camera. Whether it is a personal portrait or a family photo shoot, dressing properly will not only enhance the visual effect of the photo, but also make you feel confident and comfortable during the photo shoot. I hope this article can provide you with some useful references to make every photo shoot a part of beautiful memories.

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