I. The Foundation: Communication is Key
* Start Early: Don't wait until the day before the shoot to discuss clothing. Give them at least a week or two. This gives them time to shop, try things on, and ask questions.
* Understand Their Style & the Shoot's Purpose: Before offering advice, understand what they typically wear and the goal of the portraits. Is it professional headshots, family portraits, senior portraits, an artistic personal project? This drastically changes the advice. Ask questions like:
* "What kind of vibe are you going for?"
* "What is the portrait being used for?"
* "What's your usual style? What makes you feel comfortable and confident?"
* "Do you have any specific ideas or outfits in mind?"
* Provide a Guide (Written & Visual): Send a detailed guide outlining your recommendations. Include:
* A written document: A PDF or email with clear, concise suggestions.
* Visual examples: Incorporate mood boards, Pinterest boards, or examples from your previous work that showcase the clothing styles you're suggesting. This is hugely helpful.
* Offer Phone Consultation/Zoom Call: Sometimes a quick chat can clear up any confusion and allow them to ask specific questions.
* Be Kind and Empathetic: Remember, you're dealing with people who may feel self-conscious about being photographed. Be reassuring and frame your advice as suggestions to help them look their best, not criticisms of their style.
* Emphasize Comfort and Confidence: The most important thing is that they feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing. Discomfort will show in their expressions.
* Be Flexible (to a Point): While you want to guide them, be open to their ideas. It's *their* portrait. If they have a special outfit that has meaning to them, try to incorporate it, even if it's not exactly what you envisioned. However, be prepared to gently steer them away from choices that will clash with the overall aesthetic or create distractions.
* Explain the "Why": Don't just say "avoid stripes." Explain *why* (they can create moiré patterns in digital images). When they understand the reasoning, they're more likely to follow your advice.
* Offer Options, Not Directives: Instead of saying "You *must* wear blue," say "Consider wearing shades of blue, green, or gray. These colors photograph well and complement [the background/location/your eye color]."
II. General Clothing Guidelines (What to Include in Your Guide)
* Color Palette:
* Coordinate, Don't Match: For group portraits (families, couples), suggest a color palette rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing. Choose 2-3 colors and have everyone incorporate those colors into their outfits. Example: Navy, burgundy, and cream.
* Complementary Colors: Consider colors that complement the background and the subject's skin tone and eye color. Jewel tones (emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red) often photograph well.
* Avoid Neons & Very Bright Colors: These can cast unflattering colors onto the skin and distract from the face. Muted or toned-down versions of bright colors are usually better.
* Pastels: Can work well, especially in natural light settings, but be mindful of washing out fair skin.
* Dark Colors: Generally slimming and can create a more sophisticated look. Good for professional portraits.
* Light Colors: Can make the subject appear larger, but can also be very flattering in the right light. Good for a light and airy feel.
* Fit:
* Well-Fitting Clothes: Clothing should fit properly – not too tight, not too loose. Ill-fitting clothes can be distracting and unflattering.
* Consider Movement: Will the subject be sitting, standing, or moving? Make sure their clothes allow for comfortable movement.
* Patterns & Textures:
* Avoid Busy Patterns: Large, bold patterns can be distracting and compete with the face. Small, subtle patterns or textures can add interest.
* Solid Colors are Often Best: Especially for headshots or when you want the focus to be entirely on the face.
* Texture: Sweaters, corduroy, lace, and other textured fabrics can add visual interest and depth to the portrait.
* Necklines:
* Consider the Face Shape: Different necklines flatter different face shapes. V-necks tend to be universally flattering.
* Avoid Low-Cut Necklines: Unless it's specifically part of the desired style, avoid necklines that are too revealing, as they can distract from the face.
* Sleeves:
* Sleeves are Generally Flattering: Even short sleeves are often more flattering than sleeveless, as they define the arm.
* Long Sleeves: Can be elegant and slimming.
* Avoid Sleeveless if Self-Conscious: If the subject is self-conscious about their arms, advise against sleeveless tops.
* Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: Avoid overly large or distracting jewelry.
* Consider the Style: Accessories should complement the overall style of the outfit.
* Glasses: If the subject wears glasses regularly, they should wear them for the portrait. If they have transition lenses, advise them to bring non-transition glasses.
* Hats/Scarves: Can add interest, but make sure they don't obscure the face.
* Shoes:
* Consider the Location: Shoes should be appropriate for the location (e.g., no heels on the beach).
* Clean & Polished: Shoes should be clean and in good condition.
* Coordinate with Outfit: Shoes should complement the outfit.
* Barefoot: Can work well in casual, natural settings.
* Avoid:
* Logos: Avoid clothing with large, distracting logos.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Iron or steam clothes before the shoot.
* Clothing That Doesn't Fit Properly: Too tight, too loose, too short.
* Trends That Will Date Quickly: Stick to classic styles that will look good for years to come.
* Anything That Makes Them Uncomfortable: This is the most important thing.
III. Specific Scenarios & Tailored Advice
* Professional Headshots:
* Dress for the Job: The clothing should be appropriate for the industry and the position the subject holds.
* Solid Colors: Solid colors are generally best. Navy, gray, black, and burgundy are good choices.
* Well-Tailored Suit or Blazer: For men, a well-tailored suit or blazer is a classic choice. For women, a blazer, a structured dress, or a tailored top can work well.
* Avoid Distracting Jewelry: Keep jewelry simple and understated.
* Family Portraits:
* Coordinate a Color Palette: Choose a color palette of 2-3 colors and have everyone incorporate those colors into their outfits.
* Consider the Location: Clothing should be appropriate for the location. For example, if the portrait is being taken at the beach, light, airy clothing would be a good choice.
* Dress for the Season: Consider the season when choosing clothing. For example, in the fall, warm, earthy tones would be a good choice.
* Think About the Home Decor: If the portraits are going to be hung in the home, think about what colors and styles would complement the existing decor.
* Senior Portraits:
* Showcase Personality: Clothing should reflect the senior's personality and interests.
* Variety of Outfits: Encourage the senior to bring a variety of outfits, including casual and dressy options.
* Consider Activities & Hobbies: Incorporate clothing or props related to the senior's activities and hobbies.
* Timeless Pieces: Focus on including some items that won't look dated in a few years.
* Couples Portraits:
* Complement Each Other: Clothing should complement each other's style and coloring.
* Avoid Being Too Matchy-Matchy: Don't wear the exact same outfit. Instead, coordinate colors and styles.
* Consider the Location: Clothing should be appropriate for the location.
* Reflect Your Relationship: Choose outfits that reflect the personality and style of your relationship.
* Maternity Portraits:
* Highlight the Bump: Choose clothing that shows off the baby bump.
* Comfort is Key: Choose comfortable clothing that allows for movement.
* Flowy Dresses & Tops: Flowy dresses and tops are often flattering.
* Consider Texture & Layers: Texture and layers can add visual interest.
* Boudoir Portraits:
* Lingerie: Lace, silk, and other luxurious fabrics are good choices.
* Robes & Wraps: Robes and wraps can add a touch of elegance.
* Heels: Heels can be flattering and make the legs look longer.
* Confidence is Key: The most important thing is to choose clothing that makes the subject feel confident and beautiful.
* Artistic/Conceptual Portraits:
* Concept Driven: The clothing should support the overall concept of the portrait.
* May Be Unconventional: Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and textures.
* Collaborate with the Subject: Work closely with the subject to choose clothing that fits the concept and their personality.
IV. Practical Tips for the Subject (Include these in your guide)
* Try on Outfits in Advance: Don't wait until the day of the shoot to try on your outfits.
* Check for Fit & Wrinkles: Make sure your clothes fit properly and are free of wrinkles.
* Bring Extra Outfits: It's always a good idea to bring a few extra outfits in case something doesn't work or you want to try something different.
* Iron/Steam Clothes the Night Before: Avoid rushing and potentially messing up your clothes right before the session.
* Consider the Undergarments: Make sure undergarments are not visible and that they provide the necessary support. Nude or seamless options are often best.
* Limit sun exposure: Avoid tanning or getting a sunburn right before the session.
V. During the Shoot
* Be Observant: Pay attention to how the clothing looks on camera. Adjust wrinkles, straps, or anything that looks out of place.
* Offer Minor Adjustments: Gently suggest minor adjustments to clothing or accessories if needed.
* Focus on Posing: Posing can often make a bigger difference than the clothing itself. Guide the subject into flattering poses that show off their best features.
* Don't be afraid to use your artistic judgment: If you know a certain outfit isn't working well on camera, suggest another option.
* Positive Reinforcement: Praise the subject when they look good. This will help them feel more confident and relaxed.
In Conclusion:
Guiding your subjects on what to wear is an art form in itself. It's about understanding their needs, offering thoughtful suggestions, and creating a collaborative environment where they feel comfortable and confident. By following these guidelines, you can help your subjects look their best and create portraits that they will cherish for years to come.