Clothing for Portraits: How to Tell Your Subjects What to Wear (and Why It Matters!)
Clothing plays a huge role in portrait photography. It can enhance the subject's personality, flatter their figure, and complement the overall mood of the image. Effectively communicating clothing guidelines to your subjects is essential for achieving the desired results. Here's a breakdown of how to tell your subjects what to wear, and why it's important:
Why Clothing Matters in Portraits:
* Sets the Tone: Clothing can instantly convey formality, casualness, sophistication, or playfulness.
* Directs the Eye: Bright colors, patterns, and textures can draw attention to specific areas of the portrait.
* Hides or Highlights: Clothing can minimize problem areas and emphasize flattering features.
* Supports the Narrative: Clothing can contribute to the story you're trying to tell with the portrait.
* Avoids Distractions: Inappropriate clothing can be visually distracting, pulling focus away from the subject's face and expression.
Key Considerations Before You Provide Guidance:
* Purpose of the Portrait: Is it for professional headshots, family portraits, a creative personal project, or something else? This defines the overall aesthetic you're aiming for.
* Location and Setting: Indoor studio, outdoor natural light, urban environment, etc. The setting influences appropriate attire.
* Client's Style and Comfort: While you offer guidance, respecting the client's personal style and ensuring they feel comfortable is crucial.
* Color Palette: Determine the color palette that will work best for the location and the overall desired mood.
* Number of Subjects: If photographing multiple people, consider how their clothing will coordinate (or contrast) to create a cohesive image.
How to Communicate Clothing Suggestions Effectively:
1. Early Communication is Key:
* Pre-Shoot Consultation: Ideally, have a phone call, video chat, or email exchange with the subject(s) well in advance of the shoot. This allows them to ask questions and find suitable outfits.
* Welcome/Information Packet: Consider creating a simple guide or welcome packet (digital or printed) that outlines what to expect, including clothing suggestions.
2. Be Clear and Specific (But Flexible):
* Provide a List of Do's and Don'ts: Instead of just saying "wear something nice," offer more concrete examples.
* Use Visual Examples: Include images (your own work or examples you find online) that illustrate the style you're envisioning.
* Offer Alternatives: Give several options so the subject feels like they have a choice.
* Be Open to Suggestions: Listen to the subject's concerns and be willing to compromise if necessary.
3. Specific Clothing Guidelines to Consider (adapt to your needs):
* Color Palette:
* "Neutral and Muted Tones Work Best": (e.g., navy, gray, olive, burgundy, cream, soft pastels). These are generally flattering and won't distract from the face.
* "Avoid Bright, Bold Colors": (e.g., neon, very saturated reds and yellows). These can be distracting and cast unwanted color on the skin.
* "Consider the Location's Colors": If shooting in a park, avoid wearing too much green so you don't blend in.
* "Coordinate, Don't Match": For group portraits, choose a color palette and have everyone select clothing within those tones. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color shirt.
* Patterns and Textures:
* "Small, Subtle Patterns Are Okay": Think delicate florals or subtle stripes.
* "Avoid Large, Busy Patterns": They can be visually overwhelming and distracting.
* "Textures Can Add Interest": Think knits, lace, or corduroy (depending on the style).
* Fit and Style:
* "Choose Clothes That Fit Well": Avoid anything too tight or too baggy.
* "Consider the Length of Sleeves": Longer sleeves are often more flattering on the arms. 3/4 length sleeves are a good option.
* "Avoid Short Sleeves That Cut Off the Arm at an Unflattering Point": Cap sleeves can sometimes make arms look larger.
* "Classic Styles Tend to Age Well": Avoid overly trendy items that might look dated in a few years.
* "Necklines Matter": V-necks are generally flattering. Avoid turtlenecks if you want to elongate the neck.
* Accessories:
* "Keep Accessories Simple and Minimal": Avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
* "Jewelry Should Complement, Not Dominate": A simple necklace or earrings can add a touch of elegance.
* "Consider Props (If Appropriate)": A hat, scarf, or piece of jewelry that reflects the subject's personality can add interest.
* Things to Avoid:
* Logos and Graphic Tees: These are generally distracting.
* Wrinkled Clothing: Iron or steam clothes before the shoot.
* Clothing That Restricts Movement: Comfort is key!
* Clothing That Shows Too Much Skin: (Unless specifically discussed for a boudoir or fashion shoot).
* Trends that are Very "Of the Moment": These can date your portraits quickly.
* Specific to Headshots (Especially Professional Headshots):
* Dress for the Role You Want: Consider the industry and the impression you want to make.
* Avoid Busy Necklaces or Distracting Earrings: Keep the focus on the face.
* Consider the Collar: The collar should fit properly and not bunch up. Think about how it interacts with a jacket or blazer (if wearing one).
4. Example Wording for Emails or Guides:
* Option 1 (Concise):
"For your portrait session, I recommend wearing clothing in neutral tones like navy, gray, or cream. Avoid busy patterns and logos. Solid colors generally photograph best. Please choose something you feel comfortable and confident in! Let me know if you have any questions."
* Option 2 (More Detailed):
"To help you prepare for your portrait session, here are a few suggestions for clothing:
* Color: I recommend choosing clothing in muted or neutral tones like navy, gray, burgundy, olive green, or cream. These colors are generally flattering and won't distract from your face. Avoid very bright or neon colors.
* Patterns: Small, subtle patterns are okay, but avoid large, busy patterns. Solid colors generally photograph best.
* Fit: Choose clothes that fit well and are comfortable to wear.
* Accessories: Keep accessories simple and minimal.
* Things to Avoid: Logos, graphic tees, wrinkled clothing, and clothing that is too tight or too revealing.
* Please bring a few different outfits so we can discuss them together at the start of the shoot. I'm happy to help you choose the best options!"
* Option 3 (for Families):
"For your family portrait session, let's aim for a coordinated but not perfectly matching look. Think about choosing a color palette of 2-3 colors (e.g., navy, gray, and cream). Each family member can then select clothing that incorporates these colors. Avoid having everyone wear the exact same color shirt. Textures like knits and denim can add visual interest. Please avoid logos and busy patterns. Comfort is key, especially for the kids!"
5. On the Day of the Shoot:
* Reiterate and Offer Advice: Even if you've already discussed clothing, take a moment to review the options with the subject(s) when they arrive.
* Have a Steamer/Iron Available: Wrinkles can happen! Having a steamer or iron on hand can be a lifesaver.
* Be Prepared to Make Adjustments: Sometimes, what looks good in person doesn't translate well on camera. Be willing to make minor adjustments to clothing (e.g., adjust a collar, remove a distracting bracelet).
Key Takeaways:
* Proactive communication is key to successful portraits. Don't leave clothing choices to chance.
* Provide clear, specific guidance, but be flexible and respectful of the subject's personal style.
* Use visual examples to illustrate your suggestions.
* Remember that the goal is to create portraits that are flattering, authentic, and visually appealing.
By following these guidelines, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create images you're both proud of. Good luck!