Clothing for Portraits: How to Tell Your Subjects What to Wear
Choosing the right clothing can significantly enhance a portrait, drawing attention to the subject's face and personality. Communicating your vision to your subjects effectively will lead to a smoother shoot and better results. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to advise your subjects on what to wear:
I. Understanding the Purpose and Context:
Before diving into specifics, consider these crucial factors:
* Purpose of the Portrait: Is it for professional headshots, family portraits, a personal project, or something else? The purpose dictates the formality and style of clothing.
* Location & Setting: Indoor studio, outdoor park, urban landscape? The environment influences color palettes, fabrics, and overall vibe.
* Desired Mood & Style: What feeling do you want to evoke? Classic, modern, playful, serious? The clothing should contribute to the desired mood.
* Subject's Personality: Encourage them to express their individuality while staying within the bounds of what works visually. Consider their personal style and comfort level.
II. Communication is Key:
* Start Early: Don't wait until the day before! Send your subjects information at least a week or two in advance.
* Written Guide/PDF: Create a detailed guide covering all the points below. This will ensure consistent advice and give your subjects time to prepare. Include example photos to illustrate your points visually.
* Personal Consultation (Optional): If time and budget allow, offer a brief phone call or video chat to discuss clothing options. This allows you to answer questions and address any concerns.
* Be Tactful and Respectful: Avoid being overly prescriptive. Frame your advice as suggestions to help them look their best. Remember, it's their portrait, and they need to feel comfortable.
* Offer Examples: Show them examples of portraits you admire and explain why the clothing choices work well.
III. General Clothing Guidelines:
Here's a breakdown of general guidelines you can share with your subjects. Adjust these based on the specific needs of your shoot.
A. The Focus Should be on the Face:
* Simple is Best: Avoid overly busy patterns, logos, or distracting details that pull attention away from the face.
* Fit Matters: Clothing should fit well – not too tight or too baggy. Ill-fitting clothes can look unflattering and uncomfortable.
* Comfort is Crucial: If they're uncomfortable, it will show in their expression. Choose clothing that allows them to move and relax.
B. Color Considerations:
* Complement Skin Tone: Suggest colors that flatter their skin tone. Avoid colors that wash them out or clash.
* Coordinate (but Don't Match): For group portraits, encourage coordinating color palettes rather than everyone wearing the same thing. Think complementary colors or variations within a single color family.
* Avoid Neon and Very Bright Colors: These can be distracting and create color casts on the skin. They can also overwhelm the image.
* Solid Colors are Preferred: Solid colors generally photograph better than patterns.
* Consider the Background: Choose colors that complement or contrast with the background. Avoid wearing the same color as the background, as the subject may blend in.
C. Fabric and Texture:
* Avoid Shiny Fabrics: Satin, silk, and other shiny fabrics can reflect light and create unwanted highlights.
* Natural Fabrics are Best: Cotton, linen, and wool tend to photograph well.
* Texture Can Add Interest: A textured knit sweater or a corduroy jacket can add visual appeal.
D. Necklines and Sleeves:
* Necklines: V-necks are generally flattering for most people, elongating the neck and torso. Avoid high necklines that can make the neck appear shorter.
* Sleeves: Sleeves are often more flattering than sleeveless tops, especially for upper arms. Long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves are good choices.
* Consider Layering: Jackets, cardigans, and scarves can add dimension and interest to the portrait.
E. Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: Avoid large, distracting jewelry. Small, delicate pieces are best.
* Glasses: If they wear glasses regularly, they should wear them in the portrait. Consider asking their optometrist about a temporary frame without lenses to avoid glare. Or, be prepared to deal with glare in post-processing.
* Hats: Hats can add personality but can also cast shadows on the face. Use them with caution.
* Belts: Belts can define the waistline and add visual interest.
F. Specific Clothing Recommendations Based on Portrait Type:
* Professional Headshots:
* Business Professional: Suits, blazers, dress shirts, blouses, professional dresses. Neutral colors are generally best.
* Business Casual: Button-down shirts, sweaters, khakis, skirts, dresses.
* Avoid: T-shirts, tank tops, overly casual attire.
* Family Portraits:
* Coordinate, Don't Match: Choose a color palette and have each family member wear variations of those colors.
* Consider the Location: Dress appropriately for the environment (e.g., comfortable and casual for a park, slightly dressier for a studio).
* Avoid: Logos, overly busy patterns.
* Couple's Portraits:
* Complementary Styles: Choose outfits that reflect your individual styles but also complement each other.
* Coordinate Colors: Choose colors that work well together.
* Consider the Location and Mood: Dress appropriately for the setting and the desired feeling of the portrait.
* Children's Portraits:
* Comfort is Key: Choose clothing that allows them to move and play freely.
* Age-Appropriate: Select clothing that is appropriate for their age and personality.
* Avoid: Overly restrictive clothing, clothing with small parts that could be a choking hazard.
* Senior Portraits:
* Showcase Personality: Encourage seniors to wear clothing that reflects their individual style and interests.
* Variety: Suggest bringing a few different outfits to provide variety in the photos.
* Consider Activities: If they participate in sports or hobbies, include clothing or accessories related to those activities.
IV. Things to Avoid:
* Logos: Avoid clothing with large, distracting logos.
* Busy Patterns: Busy patterns can be distracting and can make the subject appear larger than they are.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Make sure all clothing is ironed or steamed before the shoot.
* Ill-Fitting Clothing: Clothing that is too tight or too baggy can be unflattering.
* Clothing that is Uncomfortable: If the subject is uncomfortable, it will show in their expression.
* Mismatched Socks or Shoes: Pay attention to the details!
V. Final Thoughts:
* Encourage Questions: Let your subjects know they can reach out with any questions or concerns they may have about clothing choices.
* Be Flexible: Be willing to adjust your recommendations based on the individual subject and the specific circumstances of the shoot.
* Focus on the Person: Ultimately, the most important thing is to capture the subject's personality and spirit. Clothing is just one element of the portrait.
By following these guidelines, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and contribute to a successful and enjoyable photoshoot. Remember, clear communication, understanding the purpose, and prioritizing comfort and personal style are key to achieving beautiful and meaningful results.