Clothing for Portraits: How to Tell Your Subjects What to Wear
One of the most impactful decisions you can influence in a portrait shoot is your subject's clothing. Their wardrobe contributes heavily to the overall mood, style, and story of the image. Guiding your subjects on what to wear can feel tricky, but clear communication and helpful suggestions will lead to better results.
Here's a breakdown of how to effectively guide your subjects on clothing choices for portraits:
1. Before the Shoot: Communicate Clearly and Early
* Send a Clothing Guide/Information Sheet: This is the most effective way to get your message across clearly and consistently. Include:
* Purpose of the Portrait: Explain the intended use (e.g., professional headshot, family heirloom, dating profile). This sets the context and helps them understand the goal.
* Style and Tone: Describe the desired aesthetic (e.g., formal, casual, modern, classic, playful). Use descriptive words and possibly mood board examples.
* Color Palette: Suggest a color scheme or a range of colors that will work well with the background, lighting, and desired mood.
* Dos and Don'ts: Provide specific guidance (see examples below).
* Number of Outfits: Specify how many outfits they should bring.
* Examples: Include images showcasing clothing that fits the desired style and avoids the "don'ts." You can use your own work or examples from Pinterest, etc.
* Contact Information: Encourage them to reach out if they have any questions.
* Phone/Video Call: A quick conversation can personalize the guidance and address any concerns directly.
* Questionnaire: Ask your subjects about their personal style, favorite colors, and what clothes they feel most comfortable and confident in. This helps you tailor your advice.
2. General Dos and Don'ts (Tailor to your specific style and the shoot's purpose):
Dos:
* Comfort and Confidence: The most important thing is that the subject feels good in what they're wearing. Confidence translates to a better portrait.
* Clean, Well-Fitted Clothing: Avoid wrinkles, stains, and ill-fitting garments.
* Solid Colors: Generally photograph better than busy patterns, which can be distracting.
* Layering (when appropriate): Adding layers (cardigans, jackets, scarves) can add depth and interest.
* Timeless Styles: Opt for classic pieces that won't look dated quickly (unless the "dated" look is intentional).
* Consider the Location/Background: Coordinate clothing colors and styles with the shooting environment.
* Complementary Colors (for group shots): In family portraits, suggest a color palette that ties everyone together without being matchy-matchy.
* Think about skin tone and hair color: Some colors look better than others based on their natural colouring. For example, warm earthy tones tend to flatter people with warm undertones in their skin.
* Iron or Steam the Clothing: Make sure the clothing is wrinkle-free.
* Bring Options: This gives you and the subject flexibility to choose the best outfit on the day.
Don'ts:
* Busy Patterns/Logos: These can distract from the face and overpower the image.
* Very Tight or Loose Clothing: Ill-fitting clothing can be unflattering.
* Clothing with Text: Text on clothing can be distracting and may not translate well in a photograph.
* Trendy Items (unless intentional): Fad items can quickly make a photo look dated.
* Clothing That Blends Too Much with the Background: Avoid wearing colors that are too similar to the background, as the subject will disappear.
* Low-Cut Tops (for professional headshots): Can be distracting and unprofessional.
* All-Black or All-White Outfits: Can lack dimension and detail. (However, with strategic lighting, these can sometimes work if that's the desired aesthetic).
* Shiny or Reflective Fabrics: Can create unwanted highlights and distractions.
* Clothing That is Too Distracting: Clothing shouldn't steal the focus away from the subject's face and expression.
* Hats/Sunglasses (unless relevant to the concept): Can obscure the face.
3. Specific Clothing Suggestions by Portrait Type:
* Professional Headshots:
* Focus: Professionalism, approachability, confidence.
* Clothing: Business attire, button-down shirts, blouses, jackets, sweaters. Conservative necklines are generally recommended. Colors that complement their brand (if applicable).
* Accessories: Minimal and professional (e.g., simple necklace, watch).
* Family Portraits:
* Focus: Connection, togetherness, personality.
* Clothing: Coordinated but not identical outfits. Choose a color palette and have each person incorporate it in their own way. Comfortable and reflective of their personalities.
* Accessories: Can add personality, but avoid anything too distracting.
* Maternity Portraits:
* Focus: Celebrating the pregnancy, showcasing the baby bump.
* Clothing: Flowing dresses, comfortable fabrics, wrap dresses, fitted tops that show off the bump. Consider fabrics that drape well.
* Accessories: Minimal, focusing on the belly.
* Senior Portraits:
* Focus: Showcasing the student's personality and interests.
* Clothing: Reflect the student's style. A mix of casual and slightly more formal options. Consider bringing props related to hobbies or interests.
* Accessories: Encourage personal touches.
* Couple Portraits:
* Focus: The connection between the couple.
* Clothing: Coordinate colors and styles without being too matchy-matchy. Choose outfits that reflect their relationship dynamic (e.g., playful, sophisticated).
* Accessories: Can be a way to express individuality.
4. During the Shoot:
* Offer Guidance (But Don't Dictate): Be prepared to offer suggestions on the day, but ultimately, the subject should feel comfortable and confident.
* Provide Feedback: If something isn't working (e.g., a pattern is creating moiré), politely suggest an alternative.
* Pay Attention to Details: Adjust clothing as needed to ensure it's flattering in the photos. Straighten collars, remove wrinkles, adjust sleeves.
* Be Positive and Encouraging: Make the subject feel good about their choices.
5. Important Considerations:
* Your Style: The advice you give should align with your photographic style. If you prefer a minimalist look, your clothing suggestions will differ from someone who favors bold colors and patterns.
* The Subject's Comfort Level: Respect your subject's personal style and comfort zone. Don't force them to wear something they're not happy with.
* Client Budget: Be mindful of your client's budget. Suggesting expensive outfits may not be appropriate.
* Inclusivity and Representation: Ensure your clothing advice is inclusive and considers diverse body types, cultural backgrounds, and identities.
* Religious or Cultural Considerations: Be sensitive to any religious or cultural requirements related to clothing.
Example Excerpt from a Clothing Guide for Family Portraits:
"Color Palette: I recommend choosing a color palette of 2-3 colors that complement each other. Think earthy tones (browns, greens, creams), jewel tones (burgundy, emerald, sapphire), or soft pastels. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color!
What to Wear:
* Mom: A flowing dress or a comfortable top and skirt in one of the chosen colors.
* Dad: A button-down shirt or polo shirt with khakis or dark jeans. A sweater or jacket can add layering.
* Kids: Choose outfits that reflect their personalities. Consider incorporating patterns that complement the chosen color palette (e.g., a floral print, a striped shirt).
What to Avoid:
* Logos or characters on clothing.
* Neon colors.
* Clothing that is too tight or revealing."
By communicating clearly, providing helpful suggestions, and respecting your subject's preferences, you can ensure that their clothing contributes positively to the overall success of your portraits. Good luck!