Clothing for Portraits: Guiding Your Subjects to Look Their Best
Choosing the right clothing can significantly impact the success of a portrait session. It's not about dictating style, but rather guiding your subjects towards choices that complement the setting, lighting, and desired mood. Here's a breakdown of how to communicate effectively about clothing for portraits:
1. Before the Shoot: Communication is Key
* The Consultation: This is the most important step. Talk to your subjects *before* the shoot, whether in person, on the phone, or via email. Get to know them! Ask about:
* Their style: What kind of clothes do they usually wear? Do they prefer casual or formal attire?
* The purpose of the photos: Are these for professional headshots, family portraits, a special occasion, or just for fun? The purpose influences the clothing choices.
* Their comfort level: Make sure they feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing.
* Their concerns: Are there any features they'd like to emphasize or de-emphasize?
* Provide a Clothing Guide (PDF or Email): Create a document outlining your recommendations. This makes things clear and avoids misinterpretations. Include visual examples.
2. What to Include in Your Clothing Guide (with Rationale):
* Overall Tone & Style:
* "Consider the Vibe": "We're aiming for a [casual/formal/classic/modern/bohemian] feel in this shoot. Think [relaxed and natural/polished and professional/timeless and elegant/trendy and edgy]."
* "Coordinate, Don't Match" (for Groups): "We want everyone to complement each other without looking like they're wearing the same uniform. Choose colors within the same family and vary the textures and patterns."
* Colors:
* "Neutral Tones are Your Friend": "Solid, neutral colors (e.g., navy, gray, black, white, cream, beige, olive green) are generally flattering and won't distract from your face. They also tend to be more timeless." *Rationale: They minimize distractions and allow the focus to be on the subject's face and expression.*
* "Jewel Tones are Rich and Elegant": "Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple can add depth and sophistication." *Rationale: They're flattering on most skin tones and add visual interest.*
* "Avoid Bright, Neon Colors": "Very bright or neon colors can cast unflattering color casts onto your skin and distract from your face." *Rationale: They reflect light intensely, creating unflattering color casts.*
* "Consider the Background": "Think about the location of the shoot. If we're shooting outdoors in a green space, avoid wearing too much green. If we're shooting in a studio with a white background, avoid wearing all white." *Rationale: You want to create contrast, not blend in.*
* Fit and Cut:
* "Choose Clothing That Fits Well": "Avoid clothing that is too tight or too loose. A well-fitting garment will flatter your figure." *Rationale: Ill-fitting clothes can look awkward and unflattering in photos.*
* "Consider the Sleeves": "Long or 3/4 sleeves are generally more flattering than sleeveless tops. They draw attention to the face and elongate the arms." *Rationale: Sleeveless tops can sometimes emphasize arm size and draw attention away from the face.*
* "Necklines Matter": "V-necks and scoop necks can elongate the neck and flatter the face. Avoid very high necklines that can make the neck appear shorter." *Rationale: Necklines can affect the overall balance and shape of the portrait.*
* Patterns and Textures:
* "Subtle Patterns Can Add Interest": "Small, subtle patterns (e.g., a small floral print, a fine stripe) can add visual interest without being overwhelming. However, avoid large, bold patterns that can be distracting." *Rationale: Large patterns can dominate the photo.*
* "Consider Textures": "Adding different textures (e.g., lace, knit, denim) can add depth and dimension to your outfit. Be mindful of how the texture will photograph." *Rationale: Textures add visual interest and can create a more sophisticated look.*
* "Avoid Logos and Graphics": "Avoid wearing clothing with large logos or graphics that can be distracting and date the photos quickly." *Rationale: They draw attention away from the subject.*
* Accessories:
* "Less is More": "Choose accessories that complement your outfit without being overwhelming. Simple jewelry, a scarf, or a hat can add personality." *Rationale: Accessories should enhance, not distract.*
* "Consider Your Glasses": "If you wear glasses, make sure they are clean and that the frames are flattering to your face. We can discuss removing your glasses for some of the shots if you prefer." *Rationale: Glasses can reflect light and obscure the eyes.*
* What to Avoid (Be specific!):
* "Avoid Clothing with Wrinkles": "Make sure your clothing is clean, ironed, and wrinkle-free."
* "Avoid Clothing That is Too Revealing": "Choose clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for the setting."
* "Avoid Anything You're Not Comfortable In": "Confidence is key to a great portrait! If you're not comfortable in something, it will show in the photos."
3. During the Shoot:
* Be Observant: Pay attention to how the clothing is appearing on camera.
* Make Suggestions (Gently): If something isn't working (e.g., a collar is flipped up, a strap is showing), politely point it out. "Hey [Name], I notice your collar is flipped up. Can you just adjust that quickly?"
* Be Positive and Encouraging: Focus on the positive aspects of their choices and make them feel good about how they look.
* Offer Wardrobe Options (If Possible): If you have some spare clothing items in your studio (scarves, jackets, etc.), offer them as options to add variety.
4. Example Phrasing:
* Instead of: "Don't wear stripes!"
* Try: "While stripes can look great in everyday life, they can sometimes create a moiré pattern on camera. For the best results, I recommend choosing solid colors or very subtle patterns."
* Instead of: "That dress is awful!"
* Try: "That dress is a beautiful color, but it might be a little too busy for the background we're using. Do you have anything else you could wear that is a simpler style?"
Key Takeaways:
* Be a Guide, Not a Dictator: Your role is to offer suggestions and help your subjects look their best, not to control their style.
* Explain Your Rationale: People are more likely to follow your advice if they understand *why* you're making those recommendations.
* Be Positive and Encouraging: A comfortable and confident subject is a happy subject, and that translates to better photos.
* Prioritize Comfort and Confidence: Ultimately, the best clothing is what makes your subject feel good about themselves.
By communicating clearly and providing helpful guidance, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create images they'll cherish for years to come.