I. Before the Shoot: Communication is Key
* Send a "What to Wear" Guide (Written): This is essential. Don't just wing it. A written guide allows people to refer back to it and feel more confident in their choices.
* Keep it concise and easy to read. Bullet points are great.
* Include visuals if possible. Images of clothing styles you like (and dislike) are incredibly helpful.
* Personalize it if you can: If you're shooting a family portrait vs. a professional headshot, tailor the advice.
* Consider your brand and style: Your "What to Wear" guide should reflect the overall aesthetic of your photography business.
* Offer to review outfits: Tell them they can text or email you photos of their outfit choices if they need help.
* Pre-Shoot Consultation (Optional, but Recommended): Especially for important portraits (e.g., senior portraits, family portraits), a quick phone call or video chat can make a huge difference. This allows you to:
* Get a feel for their style and personality.
* Discuss the location and overall mood of the shoot.
* Address any specific concerns or questions they have.
* Website/Social Media Resources: If you have a website or active social media, create a blog post or dedicated page on "What to Wear for Portraits." This allows you to share your knowledge with a wider audience and makes it easily accessible.
* Consider a Pinterest board: Create a Pinterest board with clothing inspiration tailored to different portrait styles and share the link with your clients.
II. Content of Your "What to Wear" Guide
Here's a breakdown of topics to cover:
A. General Guidelines (Apply to most portrait types)
* Comfort is Key: If they're uncomfortable, it will show in their posture and expression.
* Fit Matters: Clothing should fit well – not too tight, not too baggy. Properly fitted clothing looks better in photos.
* Cleanliness and Condition: Ensure clothes are clean, ironed/steamed (wrinkle-free!), and in good repair (no missing buttons, loose threads, etc.).
* Avoid Logos/Busy Patterns: These can be distracting and date the photos. Small, subtle patterns are usually okay.
* Coordinate, Don't Match: For group portraits, avoid everyone wearing the exact same thing. Choose a color palette and encourage variations within that palette. Think complementary colors.
* Timelessness: Consider clothing choices that won't look dated in a few years. Classic styles are usually a safe bet.
* Think about the background: What color is the background and how will the clothing colors play with it?
B. Specific Recommendations (Tailored to portrait type)
* Color Palette:
* Neutrals: Generally safe and flattering (grays, creams, browns, blacks, navy).
* Jewel Tones: Rich colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple can look beautiful.
* Pastels: Soft and romantic, but can sometimes wash people out.
* Avoid Colors: Generally it's best to avoid florescent colors.
* Consider skin tone: What colors work best with their skin tone?
* Necklines:
* V-necks: Flattering and elongating.
* Scoop necks: Can be flattering.
* Crew necks: More casual, but can work well.
* Avoid: High necks that choke the neck, turtlenecks (unless strategically used).
* Sleeves:
* Long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves: Generally more flattering than sleeveless or very short sleeves, especially for adults. Can hide upper arms.
* Sleeveless: Can be acceptable if you want the model to be in a tank top.
* Fabrics:
* Consider textures: Knits, lace, corduroy can add visual interest.
* Avoid shiny fabrics: These can reflect light in unflattering ways.
* Accessories:
* Keep it minimal: Too many accessories can be distracting.
* Jewelry: Simple necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Avoid chunky or statement pieces unless they are essential to the person's style.
* Scarves: Can add a pop of color and texture.
* Hats: Can be stylish, but consider how they affect the hair and face.
* Footwear:
* Dress shoes or clean sneakers: For more formal portraits.
* Boots: Can be stylish, especially for outdoor portraits.
* Avoid: Flip-flops (usually), excessively worn shoes.
* Consider the location: Heels might not be suitable for a grassy field.
* Professional Headshots:
* Business Attire: Suit, dress shirt, blouse, etc. Consider the industry and company culture.
* Solid colors are generally best.
* Make sure the clothing fits well and is comfortable.
* Family Portraits:
* Choose a color palette (2-3 colors) and coordinate.
* Think about the location: Casual clothing for a park, dressier clothing for a studio.
* Let each person's personality shine through.
* Senior Portraits:
* Bring a variety of outfits (formal, casual, hobbies-related).
* Showcase their personality and interests.
* Consider locations that are meaningful to them.
* Maternity Portraits:
* Comfortable and flattering clothing that accentuates the bump.
* Flowing fabrics like chiffon or knit dresses.
* Consider sheer fabrics for a more intimate look.
C. What to Avoid
* Logos: Unless the portrait is specifically for branding purposes.
* Busy patterns: These can be distracting.
* Neon or fluorescent colors: They can cast unflattering colors on the skin.
* Wrinkled clothing.
* Clothing that doesn't fit well.
* Trends that will quickly date the photos.
III. During the Shoot
* Be Observant: Pay attention to how the clothing looks on camera.
* Offer Gentle Guidance: If something isn't working, politely suggest an adjustment (e.g., "Could you try unbuttoning the top button?" or "Let's try this scarf a different way.").
* Don't be Afraid to Speak Up: If something *really* isn't working, address it tactfully but directly. It's better to make a suggestion than to end up with photos you're not happy with.
* Consider a Quick Change: If an outfit isn't working, suggest trying a different one. This is why encouraging multiple options is important.
IV. Key Phrases to Use
* Instead of: "That looks terrible."
* Try: "I'm noticing that the fabric is creating some harsh shadows. Do you have another option we could try?"
* Instead of: "Don't wear that."
* Try: "For the style we're going for, I think a solid color would work better than the pattern. What do you think?"
* Instead of: "That's too tight."
* Try: "For the most flattering look, we want to ensure the clothing allows you to move comfortably. Is there anything that might offer a bit more range of motion?"
* Instead of: "You can't wear that logo."
* Try: "For these portraits, we really want the focus to be on you. If possible, let's try and stay away from logos, but if that's a favorite shirt, that's OK too."
* If you notice a wrinkle: "Could we quickly smooth out that area? Sometimes those small wrinkles are amplified on camera."
* If you need them to fix their hair: "Would you mind just tucking that piece of hair behind your ear? It'll help open up your face."
* When giving positive feedback: "That color looks amazing on you!" or "That fabric has such a beautiful texture; it will really pop in the photos."
V. Example "What to Wear" Guide Excerpts:
Example 1: Family Portraits (Outdoor, Casual)
"For your family portraits, we want you to be comfortable and feel like yourselves! Think relaxed and natural. Here are a few tips:
* Color Palette: Choose 2-3 colors that complement each other. Examples: Navy/Cream/Tan; Mustard/Gray/White; Burgundy/Olive Green/Denim. Coordinate, but don't match exactly!
* Avoid: Logos, busy patterns, and neon colors.
* Layers: Adding layers like cardigans, vests, or scarves can add visual interest and personality.
* Footwear: Comfortable shoes that you can walk in. Sandals, sneakers, or boots are all great options.
* Mom: A flowy dress or a top and jeans with a cardigan are always flattering.
* Dad: A button-down shirt or polo shirt with chinos or jeans.
* Kids: Let their personalities shine through! Choose outfits that they love and that are comfortable for them to move around in.
Example 2: Professional Headshots
"Your professional headshot is your first impression! Here's how to make it a great one:
* Business Attire: Wear what you would wear to a typical workday or client meeting.
* Solid Colors: Avoid busy patterns or distracting logos.
* Fit is Key: Ensure your clothing fits properly and is wrinkle-free.
* Necklines: V-necks or scoop necks are generally flattering.
* Jewelry: Keep it simple and understated.
* Grooming: Ensure your hair is neat and tidy. Shave or trim your beard if necessary.
* Consider Your Industry: A lawyer might opt for a classic suit, while a creative professional could choose a stylish blazer and dress shirt."
Key Takeaways:
* Proactive communication is crucial.
* Provide clear, concise guidelines.
* Offer personalized advice.
* Be tactful and supportive during the shoot.
* Prioritize comfort and confidence.
* Remember, your goal is to help your subjects look and feel their best, resulting in beautiful, authentic portraits.