I. Laying the Groundwork Before the Shoot:
* Communication is Key: Don't wait until the day of the shoot to address clothing. Start the conversation early!
* Ask About Their Vision: Begin by understanding what *they* want to achieve with the portraits. What's the purpose? What feeling are they going for?
* "What kind of feeling are you hoping to convey in these photos? Professional, relaxed, fun, elegant?"
* "Where will these photos be used? (e.g., LinkedIn, family wall, social media, dating profile)"
* "Do you have any specific outfits in mind already?"
* Share Your Style and Aesthetic: Link them to your online portfolio or social media pages. This lets them see the overall vibe you create. Say something like, "This will give you a sense of my style and how I like to create portraits."
* Provide a Style Guide (Highly Recommended): This is a document (PDF, website page, or even a nicely formatted email) that outlines your recommendations. A good style guide is gold!
II. Elements to Include in Your Style Guide (or Email):
* Overall Tone/Vibe:
* "We want to create a [classic, modern, relaxed, elegant, edgy] look."
* "Think timeless and flattering."
* Color Palette:
* General Advice: "I recommend choosing a color palette of 2-3 colors that complement each other."
* Specific Suggestions: "Consider neutral colors like creams, grays, tans, and muted blues and greens. Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) also photograph beautifully."
* Consider the Location/Background: "If we're shooting outdoors in a green space, avoid wearing green as you might blend in. If we're shooting in the studio with a [color] background, try wearing contrasting colors that will pop."
* Avoid: "Please avoid neon colors, overly bright colors, or colors that clash with each other."
* Color Coordination (For Group Photos): "Coordinate your outfits in terms of color, but don't be too matchy-matchy. Think of a unified color palette rather than everyone wearing the same shade of blue." (More details below in the "Group Portraits" section)
* Clothing Styles:
* Flattering Silhouettes: "Choose clothing that fits well and flatters your body type. Avoid anything too baggy or too tight."
* Classic Choices: "Solid-colored tops are generally a good choice. Simple dresses, well-fitting jeans, and comfortable sweaters can all work well."
* Things to Avoid: "Avoid clothing with large logos, busy patterns, or distracting graphics. These can detract from your face." "Avoid overly trendy items that may look dated in a few years." "Avoid clothing that wrinkles easily."
* Necklines: "Scoop neck, V-neck, and boatneck tops tend to be flattering. Avoid overly high necklines."
* Sleeves: "Sleeves are generally more flattering than sleeveless tops, especially for women."
* Layers (If Appropriate): "Layers can add visual interest and depth to your portraits. Think a jacket, cardigan, scarf, or vest."
* Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: "Accessories can add personality, but don't overdo it. A simple necklace, earrings, or bracelet can be a nice touch."
* Consider the Style: "Choose accessories that complement your outfit and the overall tone of the photos."
* Things to Avoid: "Avoid large, distracting accessories."
* Shoes:
* "Choose shoes that are comfortable and complement your outfit. They may or may not be visible in the photos, but they should still be appropriate."
* Consider the Location: "If we're shooting outdoors, choose shoes that are suitable for the terrain."
* Dressy Shots: "High heels can be flattering, but make sure you can walk comfortably in them."
* Hair and Makeup:
* Natural Look: "Aim for a natural, polished look. Avoid overly heavy makeup or hairstyles."
* Hair: "Make sure your hair is clean and styled in a way that you feel comfortable and confident."
* Makeup: "A little makeup can help even out your skin tone and enhance your features. Consider using a matte foundation to avoid shine."
* Lips: "Lip color can add a pop of color to your photos. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and outfit."
* Consider Professional Help: "If you're not confident in your hair and makeup skills, consider hiring a professional."
* Grooming (For Men):
* Clean Shave/Well-Groomed Beard: "Make sure you're clean-shaven or your beard is neatly trimmed."
* Hair: "Make sure your hair is clean and styled."
* What *To Bring* to the Shoot:
* "Please bring several outfit options so we can choose what looks best on camera and in the location." (This is crucial!)
* "Bring any necessary undergarments (strapless bra, Spanx, etc.)."
* "Bring a comb/brush for quick hair touch-ups."
* "If you wear glasses, bring them and a lens cloth. We'll discuss glare issues."
* Examples: Include visual examples! Add photos (yours or sourced from elsewhere online, with credit if needed) that illustrate the looks you're describing. This is incredibly helpful. Show pictures of colors, clothing styles, and accessories that you think would look good.
* Reiterate Your Availability: "I'm happy to answer any questions you have about what to wear. Feel free to text/email me with photos of your outfit choices!"
III. Specific Scenarios:
* Headshots (Business/LinkedIn):
* Professional Impression: "The goal is to project competence and professionalism."
* Conservative Choices: "Solid-colored shirts or blouses are best. A blazer or jacket can add a touch of formality."
* Avoid Distractions: "Avoid busy patterns, loud colors, or revealing necklines."
* Consider Your Industry: "If you work in a creative field, you can be a bit more relaxed with your clothing choices."
* Jewelry: "Keep jewelry simple and understated."
* Family Portraits:
* Coordinate, Don't Match: "The key is to coordinate colors and styles, but avoid having everyone wear the exact same outfit."
* Choose a Color Palette: "Start by choosing a color palette of 2-3 colors. Then, have each family member choose clothing within that palette."
* Consider the Location: "If we're shooting outdoors, consider the colors of the environment. If we're shooting indoors, consider the colors of your home decor."
* Avoid Logos/Graphics: "Avoid clothing with large logos or distracting graphics."
* Think About the Overall Look: "Do you want a casual, relaxed look or a more formal, dressed-up look?"
* Comfort is Key (Especially for Kids): "Make sure everyone is comfortable in their clothing."
* Couple/Engagement Photos:
* Complement Each Other: "Choose outfits that complement each other in terms of color and style."
* Show Your Personalities: "Let your personalities shine through in your clothing choices."
* Consider the Location: "If we're shooting outdoors, consider the colors and textures of the environment."
* Bring Options: "Bring a variety of outfits so we can choose what looks best on camera."
* One Formal, One Casual: Consider suggesting one "dressier" outfit and one more casual outfit for variety.
* Group Portraits (Business or Family):
* Color Harmony: Pick a color *scheme*, not a single color. For example:
* Neutrals with a Pop: Grays, creams, tans, with one person wearing a burgundy scarf or a mustard-colored sweater.
* Blues and Greys: Different shades of blue (navy, light blue, denim) paired with grays.
* Earthy Tones: Browns, greens, oranges, creams.
* Level of Formality: Should everyone be dressed in business casual? Or more relaxed? Make sure everyone's on the same page.
* Avoid Clashes: Make sure there are no conflicting patterns or colors that draw the eye away from the group as a whole.
* Maternity Portraits:
* Show Off the Bump: "Choose clothing that accentuates your baby bump."
* Comfort is Essential: "Choose clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in."
* Flowy Fabrics: "Flowy dresses or tops can be very flattering."
* Consider Undergarments: "Choose supportive and comfortable undergarments."
* Partners' Clothing: Coordinate the partner's clothing to complement the mother-to-be's outfit.
* Senior Portraits:
* Reflect Their Personality: "The goal is to capture your personality and style."
* Bring Variety: "Bring a variety of outfits that reflect your different interests and activities." (e.g., something sporty, something dressy, something casual)
* Consider Props: "Bring props that represent your hobbies and interests (e.g., a musical instrument, a sports uniform, a book)."
* Boudoir Portraits:
* Communication and Comfort These types of shoots require a great deal of open and honest communication beforehand. Focus on your subject's comfort levels first and foremost.
* Outfit Options: Lingerie, corsets, silk robes, oversized sweaters, button-down shirts (borrowed from a partner), high heels, and even simple clothing items like jeans and a t-shirt can work well.
* Fit and Comfort: Make sure the clothing fits well and is comfortable. Ill-fitting lingerie can be unflattering.
* Color: Black, red, and white are classic choices, but softer colors like blush pink, cream, and lavender can also be beautiful.
* Accessories: Consider adding accessories like jewelry, scarves, or hats.
* Professional Assistance: Encouraging your subject to hire a professional hair and makeup artist can enhance the overall experience and results.
IV. During the Shoot:
* Be Observant: Pay attention to how the clothing looks on camera. Is it bunching up? Is it showing wrinkles? Offer gentle adjustments.
* Offer Feedback: "That color looks amazing on you!" "That shirt photographs really well." Positive reinforcement can help your subjects feel confident and relaxed.
* Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your lighting or posing based on the clothing choices.
* Don't Be Afraid to Speak Up: If something *really* isn't working, gently suggest an alternative outfit. "I'm noticing that the pattern on that shirt is creating a moiré effect on camera. Do you have another option we could try?"
V. Key Takeaways:
* Start Early: Don't wait until the last minute.
* Be Specific: Provide clear and concrete advice.
* Be Visual: Include examples whenever possible.
* Be Kind and Encouraging: Make your subjects feel comfortable and confident.
* Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your approach based on the individual client and the specific situation.
* Be Professional: You're the expert. Your guidance will help your subjects look and feel their best, resulting in stunning portraits.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate your vision and help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create lasting memories. Good luck!