I. Preparation: Before You Even Talk to Your Subjects
* Define Your Vision: Before you even think about talking to your subjects, ask yourself:
* What's the purpose of the portrait? (Professional headshot? Family heirloom? Artistic expression?)
* What's the mood you want to convey? (Serious? Playful? Elegant? Casual?)
* What's the setting/location? (Studio? Outdoors? Specific location with colors and style?)
* What's your overall aesthetic? (Light and airy? Dark and moody? Colorful? Black and White?)
* What are your personal preferences? (Necklines, sleeves, silhouettes.)
* What are you comfortable retouching? (A stray hair? A stain on clothing? Body shape?)
* Create a Mood Board/Inspiration Board: Gather images that represent the style and vibe you're aiming for. This will be invaluable for explaining your vision to your subjects. Include examples of clothing colors, textures, and overall looks that resonate with your plan.
* Prepare a Wardrobe Guide/PDF: This is a fantastic tool! Create a document you can send to your subjects that outlines your recommendations. It doesn't have to be fancy, but it should be clear and concise. (We'll get into the content of the guide below).
II. Communicating with Your Subjects
* Timing is Key: Send your wardrobe guidance well in advance of the photoshoot (at least a week or two) so your subject has time to shop, try things on, and ask questions.
* Start with the "Why": Explain *why* wardrobe is important for the portrait. "Choosing the right clothing can really elevate your portrait and help us achieve the specific look we're going for." Help them understand that it's not about telling them what *not* to wear, but about collaborating to create the best possible image.
* Be Clear and Direct: Avoid vague or wishy-washy language. Be specific about what you're looking for.
* Offer Choices, Not Dictation: Frame your suggestions as options, rather than mandates. "Here are a few color palettes that photograph beautifully..." "If you're considering patterns, smaller, more subtle patterns tend to work better..."
* Open Communication: Encourage your subjects to ask questions and share their own ideas. It's a collaboration!
* Be Empathetic: Remember that people have different body types, comfort levels, and personal styles. Be sensitive to their needs and concerns.
III. Content for Your Wardrobe Guide/Communication
Here's a breakdown of topics to address in your guide:
* A. Overall Style and Vibe:
* Reiterate the mood/style you're aiming for. "For this shoot, we're going for a relaxed and natural look."
* Share your mood board/inspiration board. This is a huge help!
* Mention the location and how the clothing should complement it. "Since we'll be shooting outdoors in a field, earth tones and flowy fabrics will look amazing."
* B. Colors:
* Palette Suggestions: Offer 2-3 color palettes that work well with your vision. Examples:
* Earthy Tones: Browns, greens, rust, creams, beiges.
* Jewel Tones: Emerald, sapphire, ruby, amethyst.
* Neutrals: Gray, navy, black, white, beige.
* Pastels: Light pink, baby blue, mint green, lavender.
* Colors to Avoid (and Why):
* Neons/Very Bright Colors: Can cast unflattering color onto the skin.
* Colors that Clash with the Background: (If you're shooting in a green field, avoid wearing bright green).
* Avoid too many colors on the same person: If someone wants to wear something bold like a floral dress, keep other members of the party in solids.
* Coordinate, Don't Match: If it's a group photo, encourage coordinating colors within a palette, rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing.
* C. Clothing Style/Fit:
* Fit is Key: Clothing should fit well and be comfortable. Too tight or too baggy can be unflattering.
* Necklines: Discuss necklines that work well. V-necks are generally flattering. Avoid very high necklines that can make the neck look short. Off-the-shoulder can be very flattering.
* Sleeves: Consider sleeves. Long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves are often more flattering than sleeveless, especially on the upper arms. Sleeveless can work, but consider the subject's comfort level.
* Silhouettes: Suggest silhouettes that are flattering. A-line, empire waist, or wrap dresses can work well. For men, fitted (but not tight) shirts and pants are usually a good choice.
* Fabrics:
* Avoid Fabrics that Wrinkle Easily: Linen, for example, can look messy quickly.
* Texture Can Add Interest: Think knits, lace, corduroy, velvet (depending on the style).
* Suggest fabrics based on comfort, setting and how they show in photos.
* D. Patterns and Textures:
* Small, Subtle Patterns are Best: Avoid large, bold patterns that can be distracting.
* Textures Can Add Depth: Knits, lace, and other textured fabrics can add visual interest.
* Avoid Logos: Logos can be distracting and date the photo.
* E. Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: Accessories should complement the outfit, not overwhelm it.
* Jewelry: Simple necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are usually best. Avoid large, chunky jewelry that can be distracting.
* Scarves: Scarves can add a pop of color or texture.
* Hats: Hats can be a stylish accessory, but make sure they don't cast shadows on the face.
* Shoes: Consider the location, comfort and formality.
* F. Grooming and Details:
* Hair: Hair should be clean and styled.
* Makeup: Makeup should be natural and flattering. Avoid heavy, dramatic makeup. Consider having a makeup artist for some portrait sessions.
* Nails: Nails should be clean and neatly trimmed.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Iron or steam your clothes before the shoot.
* G. What *Not* to Wear (Tactfully):
* Anything That Makes You Uncomfortable: Comfort is key!
* Clothing That Doesn't Fit Well:
* Distracting Patterns or Logos:
* Anything That Doesn't Align with the Overall Style:
* Anything You Wouldn't Normally Wear:
* H. Example Outfits:
* Include photos of example outfits that fit the style you're looking for. This is incredibly helpful!
* I. Multiple Outfits (Optional):
* If you're allowing multiple outfits, specify the number and the types of outfits (e.g., one casual, one more formal).
* J. Undergarments:
* This can be awkward, but important! Suggest nude or skin-toned undergarments to avoid showing through lighter clothing. Suggest strapless bras for certain outfits.
* K. Contact Information:
* Include your contact information so your subject can easily reach out with questions.
IV. Day of the Shoot
* Be Prepared to Adjust: Even with the best planning, things might not go exactly as planned. Be prepared to make adjustments as needed.
* Have a "Backup" Plan: Keep a few neutral accessories or pieces of clothing on hand in case something doesn't work.
* Compliment and Encourage: Make your subjects feel confident and comfortable. Tell them they look great!
* Don't Be Afraid to Speak Up: If something really isn't working, gently and tactfully address it. "That color is reflecting a little too much green onto your skin. Do you have another option we could try?"
Example Snippets for your Wardrobe Guide:
* "For this session, we're aiming for a relaxed and bohemian vibe. Think flowy dresses, soft colors, and natural textures."
* "Colors like navy, gray, burgundy, and mustard photograph beautifully in the fall foliage. Avoid wearing bright white, as it can be distracting."
* "Small patterns, like florals or subtle stripes, can add visual interest. However, avoid large, bold patterns or logos, as they can be distracting."
* "Fitted clothing that flatters your shape is best. Avoid anything too tight or too baggy. If you're unsure, bring a few options and we can decide together!"
Key Takeaways:
* Plan ahead.
* Communicate clearly and kindly.
* Offer guidance, not mandates.
* Be flexible and empathetic.
* Focus on creating a positive and collaborative experience.
By following these tips, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create images you'll both be proud of. Good luck!