I. Why Clothing Matters So Much
* Sets the Tone: Clothing immediately conveys a feeling (formal, casual, playful, serious).
* Directs the Eye: Colors, patterns, and textures draw the viewer's attention. You want the focus on the subject's face, not a distracting shirt.
* Reflects Personality: Clothing can help express the subject's identity and style (if that's the goal).
* Enhances or Detracts: The right clothing can complement skin tone, body shape, and the overall environment. The wrong clothing can do the opposite.
* Timelessness: Consider if the clothing will look dated in a few years. Classic choices often age better.
* Consistency: If photographing multiple people together, ensuring their clothing complements each other is important for a cohesive look.
II. Before the Shoot: Communication is Key
1. Initial Consultation (Phone/Email/In Person):
* Purpose of the Shoot: *Very important!* "These portraits are for your professional website," or "These are for a family holiday card," or "This is a personal branding session to attract new clients." This dictates the appropriate level of formality and style.
* Your Style/Vision: Briefly explain your portrait style (e.g., "I tend to do natural light, airy portraits," or "My style is more dramatic and studio-lit"). Show them examples of your work so they know what to expect.
* Location: Mention the location (studio, park, their home). This will influence clothing choices. "We'll be outdoors in a park, so comfortable and casual clothing is best." If it's a studio with a specific backdrop, mention the color of the backdrop.
* Color Palette: Discuss desired colors/tones. "I'm envisioning soft, neutral colors," or "I'd love to see some pops of color, but let's avoid anything too neon." Provide a mood board or color palette for inspiration if you have one.
* Number of Outfits: Decide how many outfits they should bring. 1-3 is typical.
* Offer Guidance: Explicitly say, "I'm happy to help you choose outfits. Feel free to send me pictures of what you're thinking!"
* Inquire About Concerns: Ask if they have any insecurities about their body or prefer certain angles. This can help you guide their clothing choices to be more flattering.
2. Detailed Outfit Guidance (Email/PDF): Send a more comprehensive guide. This can be a document or email with the following:
* Color Recommendations:
* Solid Colors: Generally, solid colors photograph better than busy patterns. They keep the focus on the face.
* Complementary Colors: Suggest colors that complement their skin tone and eye color. (e.g., "Blue eyes look great with warm browns or oranges").
* Neutral Palette: Emphasize the versatility of neutrals (gray, navy, cream, beige, white). They're timeless and work well in most settings. Avoid pure white which can be difficult to expose correctly.
* Avoid Colors: Suggest avoiding colors that can reflect poorly on the skin (e.g., bright green can cast a green tint). Avoid colors that clash with the background.
* Jewel Tones: Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) often look rich and luxurious.
* Fit and Style:
* Well-Fitting Clothes: Clothes that fit properly are essential. Too tight or too loose will look unflattering.
* Classic Styles: Timeless pieces (e.g., a well-fitting blazer, a simple dress, a classic button-down shirt) are always a good choice.
* Avoid Trendy Items: Very trendy items can quickly look dated.
* Consider the Neckline: V-necks and scoop necks are generally flattering. Avoid very high necklines that can make the neck look short.
* Sleeves: Sleeves are often more flattering than sleeveless tops, especially for women. 3/4 length sleeves are a good option.
* Patterns (Use Sparingly):
* Small, Subtle Patterns: If patterns are worn, they should be small and subtle.
* Avoid Distracting Patterns: Avoid busy, large, or graphic patterns that will draw attention away from the face. Stripes can sometimes warp in photos.
* Coordinate Patterns: If multiple people are being photographed, coordinate the patterns so they don't clash.
* Fabrics:
* Textured Fabrics: Fabrics with texture (e.g., corduroy, linen, knit) can add visual interest.
* Avoid Shiny Fabrics: Shiny fabrics (e.g., satin, velvet) can reflect light and create unflattering highlights.
* Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics: Choose fabrics that don't wrinkle easily.
* Accessories:
* Simple Jewelry: Simple, classic jewelry is best. Avoid large, distracting pieces.
* Shoes: Choose shoes that are comfortable and stylish. Make sure they are clean.
* Belts: A belt can help define the waist.
* Scarves/Hats: Scarves and hats can add personality, but make sure they don't overshadow the face.
* Practical Advice:
* Try on Everything Beforehand: Make sure the clothes fit and are comfortable.
* Check for Wrinkles: Iron or steam the clothes before the shoot.
* Bring Options: Bring a few different outfits to choose from.
* Consider Undergarments: Choose undergarments that are the right color and style for the outfit. Avoid visible bra straps.
* Remove Tags: Remove all tags from clothing.
* Avoid Tan Lines: Be mindful of tan lines when choosing outfits.
* Hair Ties: Avoid wearing hair ties on your wrist.
* Clean Glasses: If wearing glasses, ensure they are clean to avoid reflections.
* Specific Examples (Images): Include visual examples of clothing that you think would work well. Create a Pinterest board or use images from your own portfolio.
* Link to Stores (Optional): If you have specific stores you like, you can include links.
* Offer a Pre-Shoot Consultation: Consider offering a brief pre-shoot consultation (in person or via video call) to review outfits.
III. Day of the Shoot: Final Checks and Adjustments
1. Review the Outfits: When your subject arrives, take a look at the outfits they've brought.
2. Make Suggestions (Gently): If something isn't working, offer suggestions tactfully. "That top is beautiful, but the pattern is a little busy. Do you have another option?"
3. Consider the Background/Lighting: Adjust your suggestions based on the actual lighting and background.
4. Be Flexible: Sometimes, the best outfit choice is the one that makes your subject feel most confident.
IV. Key Considerations for Different Portrait Types:
* Professional Headshots: Conservative, business-appropriate attire. Well-fitting blazer, button-down shirt, or a simple dress. Neutral colors are often best.
* Family Portraits: Coordinated colors, but not necessarily matching. Choose a color palette (e.g., blues and grays, earth tones) and have everyone wear variations of those colors. Avoid logos and distracting patterns.
* Couples Portraits: Complementary styles and colors. Think about the overall vibe you're going for (romantic, playful, casual).
* Senior Portraits: A mix of casual and dressy outfits that reflect the student's personality.
* Maternity Portraits: Comfortable and flattering clothing that accentuates the baby bump. Flowing dresses, stretchy tops, and leggings are good choices.
* Boudoir: Communicate what is expected and discuss options and comfort levels prior to the shoot.
* Children's Portraits: Comfortable and fun clothing that allows for movement. Avoid logos and distracting patterns.
V. Common Mistakes to Help Your Subjects Avoid:
* Wearing Clothes That Don't Fit Properly: Too tight or too loose.
* Wearing Clothes That Are Uncomfortable: If they're uncomfortable, it will show in the photos.
* Wearing Clothes That Are Too Revealing: Avoid clothing that is too low-cut or too short.
* Wearing Clothes That Are Too Busy: Avoid distracting patterns and logos.
* Wearing Clothes That Are Wrinkled: Iron or steam the clothes before the shoot.
* Forgetting About Undergarments: Choose undergarments that are the right color and style for the outfit.
* Wearing the Wrong Shoes: Choose shoes that are comfortable and stylish.
* Over-Accessorizing: Keep jewelry simple and classic.
VI. Important Reminders:
* Be Kind and Patient: Your subjects may not be used to being photographed, so be patient and understanding.
* Focus on Confidence: The most important thing is that your subjects feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing. Confidence translates beautifully in photos.
* Communicate Clearly: Clear communication is key to a successful photoshoot.
* Trust Your Eye: Use your artistic eye to guide your subjects and make suggestions that will help them look their best.
By providing clear and helpful guidance on clothing choices, you can ensure that your portrait subjects look and feel their best, resulting in stunning and memorable images. Good luck!