I. The Guiding Principles: Before You Say Anything
* Know Your Vision:
* Style & Tone: What's the overall vibe you're aiming for? Classic, modern, romantic, edgy, casual, professional?
* Location & Setting: Will the shoot be indoors or outdoors? Urban, nature, studio? The clothing needs to complement the setting.
* Purpose of the Portrait: Is it for a professional headshot, family album, dating profile, artistic expression, etc.? The purpose heavily influences clothing choices.
* Color Palette: Do you have a preferred color scheme in mind? (Warm, cool, neutral, vibrant)
* Consider the Background: This will dictate the best colors and patterns to wear so the subject doesn't blend in.
* Communicate Clearly & Early:
* Send a "What to Wear" Guide (Template below)
* Offer a pre-shoot consultation (phone or in person).
* Be approachable and encourage questions.
* Don't be afraid to ask what the subject had in mind - it's better to gently steer them to something more suitable than to have them turn up in something totally inappropriate.
* Emphasize Comfort & Confidence:
* "The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing. That will shine through in the photos."
* Be a Guide, Not a Dictator:
* Offer suggestions and examples, but avoid being overly prescriptive. The goal is a collaboration, not control.
II. Creating a "What to Wear" Guide (Template)
Here's a basic template you can adapt. Include examples (photos or links) if possible.
Subject: [Portrait Type - Family, Headshot, Engagement, etc.]
Thank you for choosing me to capture your portraits! Here are some guidelines to help you choose clothing that will look fantastic and help you feel your best during the shoot.
1. Overall Recommendations
* Comfort is Key: Wear clothes that fit well and allow you to move freely. If you're uncomfortable, it will show in the photos.
* Confidence Boosters: Choose outfits that make you feel good about yourself.
* Consider the Location: [Brief description of location and how clothing should complement it.]
* Coordinate, Don't Match: [Especially for groups/couples]. Aim for a cohesive look by choosing colors that complement each other, rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing.
* Less is More: Simplicity is often best. Avoid overly busy patterns or logos.
* Bring Options: If possible, bring a couple of different outfits so we can choose what looks best in the moment.
2. Color Choices
* [Your Preferred Color Palette - e.g., Neutral Tones]: Colors like creams, grays, browns, soft blues, and muted greens are generally flattering and timeless.
* Consider the Season: [If applicable]. Autumn shoots might suit warm, earthy tones. Summer shoots can handle brighter colors (with caution).
* Avoid: [Specific colors to avoid - e.g., Neon colors can cast strange light. Colors too close to skin tone can make you look washed out.]
3. Clothing Styles - General
* Classic & Timeless: Clothing that won't look dated in a few years.
* Avoid Trends: Unless a trendy look is specifically what you're going for.
* Layers (if appropriate): Adding a jacket, scarf, or cardigan can add visual interest and variety.
* Fit:
* Avoid: Baggy or overly tight clothing.
* Aim for: Clothes that fit well and flatter your body type.
* Necklines: V-necks are generally flattering. Crew necks are good, too. Be mindful of plunging necklines (unless it's your style).
* Sleeves: Sleeves are generally more flattering than sleeveless, especially for arms.
4. Specific Clothing Suggestions (Adapt to the portrait type)
* Headshots:
* Professional: Solid-colored blouses, button-down shirts, blazers.
* Casual: Well-fitting sweaters, tops with interesting necklines.
* Avoid: T-shirts with logos, busy patterns.
* Family Portraits:
* Mom: A flowing dress, a comfortable blouse with nice pants or a skirt.
* Dad: Button-down shirt, polo shirt, sweater, nice jeans or chinos.
* Children: Playful outfits that are comfortable and allow them to move.
* Engagement Photos:
* Outfit 1 (Dressy): A nice dress for her, a suit or dress shirt and slacks for him.
* Outfit 2 (Casual): Jeans and a nice top for her, jeans and a button-down shirt or sweater for him.
* Senior Portraits: Encourage subjects to pick clothes that reflect their hobbies and interests.
5. Accessories
* Keep it Simple: Avoid overly large or distracting jewelry.
* Consider: Scarves, hats, belts, watches (if appropriate).
* Shoes: Make sure they are clean and in good condition. Choose shoes that complement the outfit and the location.
6. Things to Avoid
* Logos: Avoid clothing with large, distracting logos.
* Busy Patterns: Can be distracting and unflattering.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Iron or steam your clothes before the shoot!
* Ill-fitting Clothing: Too tight or too baggy will not photograph well.
* Clothing that Reveals Too Much: Be mindful of the overall tone of the shoot.
* Mismatched Socks/Underwear Showing: Check before you leave the house!
7. Hair and Makeup
* Hair: Style your hair as you normally would. Bring hairspray or other styling products for touch-ups.
* Makeup (for women): A natural, polished look is generally best. Avoid overly heavy makeup. Consider professional makeup application.
8. Final Thoughts
* Communication is Key: If you have any questions or concerns about what to wear, please don't hesitate to ask!
* Relax and Have Fun! The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will turn out.
[Your Name/Contact Information]
III. The Pre-Shoot Consultation (Phone or In-Person)
* Review the Guide: Make sure they've read the guide and understand the recommendations.
* Ask About Their Ideas: "What did you have in mind in terms of clothing?"
* Address Concerns: Listen to their concerns about body image or specific clothing items.
* Offer Specific Suggestions:
* "Based on your style, I think a [specific color/style] would look amazing on you."
* "For the location, something like [example outfit] would work really well."
* Encourage Sending Photos: "If you're unsure about an outfit, feel free to send me a photo and I can give you my opinion."
* Reinforce Comfort: "Ultimately, I want you to feel comfortable and confident. Choose clothes that make you feel good."
IV. Examples of Specific Advice Scenarios
* "I Only Wear Black": "Black can be very elegant, but it can also be draining on camera. Perhaps we could incorporate some texture to add dimension, or maybe a scarf or necklace in a lighter color to break it up."
* "I Want to Wear a Really Busy Pattern": "That's great that you want to show off your style! However, very busy patterns can sometimes be distracting in portraits. We could consider it as one option, but perhaps have a more solid-colored alternative as well."
* "I'm Not Sure What Colors Look Good on Me": "Send me a picture of you in a few different colors! Alternatively, jewel tones look good on pretty much everyone."
* "I Hate My Arms": "I understand that. Sleeves are generally more flattering than sleeveless tops. We can also use posing techniques to make your arms look their best."
* "Can I Wear [This Specific Outfit]": This is where you need to be diplomatic but direct. If it's truly terrible, say something like, "While that outfit is very stylish, it might not be the *most* flattering for portraits. Let's brainstorm some alternatives that will give you a similar vibe but photograph better."
V. On the Day of the Shoot
* Be Supportive and Positive: Compliment their outfit choices.
* Make Adjustments as Needed: If something isn't working, don't be afraid to gently suggest a change.
* Focus on Connection: The most important thing is to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere so that the subject's personality shines through.
Key Takeaways
* Preparation is crucial. A detailed "What to Wear" guide sets clear expectations.
* Communication is key. Talk to your subjects beforehand and address their concerns.
* Be a guide, not a dictator. Offer suggestions and support, but let their personality shine through.
* Confidence and comfort are paramount. Encourage them to wear clothes that make them feel good about themselves.
By following these guidelines, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create beautiful, timeless images. Good luck!