I. Communication is Key: Start Early and Be Clear
* Initial Consultation/Booking:
* Provide a Style Guide: The best approach is to have a PDF or webpage that you send to all clients upon booking. This document can cover everything mentioned below in more detail, and will serve as a reference point.
* Brief Overview: Even before sending the guide, briefly mention clothing during your initial consultation (email, phone call, or in-person meeting). Say something like, "I'll be sending you a portrait guide soon with tips on what to wear, which will help you prepare for the session." This sets the expectation that you'll be providing guidance.
* Ask About Their Style: Get a sense of their personal style and what they're comfortable in. "What kind of outfits make you feel confident and your best?"
* Detailed Guide/Information:
* Send this a week or two before the shoot. This gives them ample time to plan and shop.
* Remind them a few days before the shoot to refer to the guide if needed.
II. Key Considerations for Your Style Guide (and Advice)
* Your Photography Style: This is the MOST IMPORTANT thing to consider! Your clothing advice should complement your photographic aesthetic.
* Example: If you shoot light and airy portraits, recommend light and neutral colors. If you shoot dark and moody portraits, suggest richer, deeper tones.
* Example: If you focus on timeless and classic portraits, recommend classic silhouettes and avoid trendy pieces. If you prefer a more fashion-forward style, suggest more modern or bold choices.
* Be explicit: Explain *why* you're making certain recommendations. "Because I shoot with a soft, natural light, clothing in neutral tones will help create a timeless and flattering look."
* Location/Setting:
* Outdoor Shoots: Consider the environment. For a forest shoot, earthy tones and textures (like denim, corduroy, or linen) might work well. For a beach shoot, light colors and flowing fabrics are ideal.
* Studio Shoots: The background color/style of your studio will influence clothing choices. A neutral backdrop allows for more flexibility, while a bold backdrop might call for more subdued clothing.
* Urban Settings: Consider the architecture and overall vibe of the location.
* Example: "For the park session, I recommend avoiding bright neon colors, as they can clash with the natural surroundings. Muted tones or earth tones will blend beautifully."
* The Purpose of the Portrait:
* Professional Headshots: Classic and professional attire is usually best. Consider the industry and the individual's role.
* Family Portraits: Coordinate colors and styles to create a cohesive look, but avoid being too matchy-matchy.
* Engagement Photos: Outfits that reflect the couple's personality and style are ideal.
* Senior Portraits: This is a chance for the senior to showcase their individuality.
* Example: "For your professional headshot, a well-fitting blazer or jacket and a classic blouse or shirt will convey confidence and professionalism."
* Color Palette:
* Choose 2-3 Primary Colors: Suggest a limited color palette that works well together.
* Neutrals as a Base: Use neutrals (white, cream, gray, beige, black, navy) as the foundation of the wardrobe and add pops of color.
* Avoid Clashing Colors: Be mindful of colors that don't photograph well together.
* Consider Skin Tones: Suggest colors that complement the subject's skin tone.
* Cool skin tones: often look good in blues, purples, greens, and grays.
* Warm skin tones: often look good in yellows, oranges, reds, and browns.
* Example: "I recommend choosing a color palette of soft blues, creams, and grays. These colors photograph beautifully and create a timeless and elegant look."
* Fit and Style:
* Proper Fit: Clothing should fit well and flatter the subject's body type. Avoid baggy or overly tight clothing.
* Classic Silhouettes: Timeless styles are often the best choice, as they won't look dated in years to come.
* Consider Body Type: Offer suggestions based on body type (e.g., A-line skirts are flattering on many figures).
* Example: "Choose clothing that fits well and flatters your figure. Avoid anything too baggy or too tight. A well-fitting dress or a tailored shirt and pants can be a great option."
* Fabrics and Textures:
* Avoid Shiny Fabrics: Shiny fabrics (like satin or silk) can reflect light and create unflattering highlights.
* Textured Fabrics: Fabrics with texture (like linen, corduroy, or knitwear) can add depth and interest to the image.
* Avoid Busy Patterns: Large, busy patterns can be distracting.
* Example: "Choose fabrics with texture, such as linen or corduroy, to add depth and interest to your portraits. Avoid shiny fabrics, as they can reflect light and create unflattering highlights."
* Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: Accessories should complement the outfit, not overpower it.
* Statement Pieces: A single statement piece (like a necklace or a scarf) can add personality.
* Consider the Location: Accessories should be appropriate for the location.
* Example: "Keep accessories simple and understated. A delicate necklace or a scarf can add a touch of personality without being distracting."
* What to Avoid:
* Logos and Graphics: Avoid clothing with large logos or distracting graphics.
* Trendy Items: Trendy items can quickly look dated.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Wrinkled clothing will be very noticeable in the photos.
* Clothing That Doesn't Fit: As mentioned above, proper fit is essential.
* Example: "Please avoid clothing with large logos or distracting graphics. Wrinkled clothing will also be very noticeable in the photos, so make sure to iron or steam your outfits before the session."
III. Specific Tips and Recommendations
* Bring Options: Encourage subjects to bring a few different outfits so you can choose the best one together.
* Layers: Layers can add depth and visual interest to the portraits.
* Shoes: Don't forget the shoes! Make sure they coordinate with the outfit.
* Jewelry: Simple jewelry is often best.
* Hair and Makeup: Recommend professional hair and makeup (if it's within their budget).
* Consider the Season: Dress appropriately for the weather.
* Confidence is Key: Remind subjects to choose clothing that makes them feel confident and comfortable.
IV. Addressing Specific Concerns
* Body Image Issues: Be sensitive to body image concerns. Reassure subjects that you will pose them in flattering ways and that you can make adjustments in post-processing.
* Budget Constraints: Offer suggestions for affordable options. Encourage subjects to shop their own closets or borrow clothing from friends or family.
* Cultural Considerations: Be respectful of cultural norms and traditions when suggesting clothing.
V. During the Shoot
* Provide Feedback: Offer feedback on clothing choices and make adjustments as needed.
* Pay Attention to Details: Notice things like wrinkles, stray hairs, or misplaced jewelry and address them before taking the photo.
* Focus on Posing: Remember that posing is just as important as clothing. Guide your subjects into flattering poses that complement their outfits.
VI. Examples for a Style Guide
Example 1: Family Portrait Session (Outdoor, Natural Light)
* Color Palette: Soft blues, creams, tans, and grays.
* Clothing:
* Mom: A flowing maxi dress in a soft blue or cream color. A lightweight sweater or cardigan can be added for warmth.
* Dad: Khaki pants or jeans with a light blue button-down shirt or a cream-colored sweater.
* Kids: Clothing in coordinating colors. Avoid logos or busy patterns.
* Accessories: Simple jewelry, scarves, or hats.
* What to Avoid: Bright neon colors, clothing with logos, and wrinkled clothing.
Example 2: Professional Headshot (Studio, Neutral Background)
* Clothing:
* Men: A well-fitting suit jacket or blazer with a crisp shirt and tie. A solid-colored shirt is best.
* Women: A tailored blazer or jacket with a classic blouse or dress. A simple necklace can add a touch of personality.
* Colors: Navy, gray, black, or burgundy are all good options.
* What to Avoid: Busy patterns, distracting jewelry, and clothing that doesn't fit well.
VII. Follow-Up and Feedback
* Ask for Feedback: After the session, ask your clients for feedback on your clothing guidance. This will help you improve your advice in the future.
* Showcase Your Best Work: Share your best portraits on your website and social media to inspire future clients.
Key Takeaways:
* Be clear and concise in your communication.
* Tailor your advice to your photography style and the purpose of the portrait.
* Provide specific examples and recommendations.
* Be sensitive to your subjects' needs and concerns.
By following these tips, you can help your clients choose clothing that will create stunning and memorable portraits! Good luck!