I. Why Wardrobe Matters
* Sets the Tone: Clothing contributes heavily to the mood and overall aesthetic of the portrait.
* Complements the Subject: The right outfit enhances the subject's best features and personality.
* Avoids Distractions: Ill-fitting, overly busy, or inappropriate clothing can detract from the subject's face and expression.
* Ensures Timelessness (or Specificity): A well-chosen wardrobe can help create a classic look or align with a desired era/style.
II. Before You Give Advice: Preparation is Key
1. Know Your Style & Vision:
* What's your photographic style? (e.g., Classic, modern, bohemian, dark & moody, light & airy)
* What's the overall mood you're aiming for? (e.g., professional, relaxed, romantic, edgy)
* What's the setting/location? (e.g., studio with a solid backdrop, outdoor park, urban street, in-home)
* What's the purpose of the portraits? (e.g., professional headshots, family memories, personal branding, artistic project)
* Have a mood board: Collect images that represent the style you're going for. This helps you visualize and communicate your vision.
2. Consider the Client's Needs:
* What's the client's personality and style? It's important that they feel comfortable and authentic.
* What's their comfort level with being photographed? Some people love dressing up, while others are more reserved.
* Do they have any specific requirements or restrictions? (e.g., company dress code, cultural considerations, physical limitations)
3. Prepare a Wardrobe Guide/Questionnaire: Create a document that outlines your recommendations and gathers information from your client. This can be a PDF, a page on your website, or a questionnaire they fill out.
III. What to Include in Your Wardrobe Guide/Advice
Here's a breakdown of topics to cover, with specific advice points:
A. General Guidelines (Applicable to Most Portraits):
* Fit is Key:
* "Clothes should fit well! Not too tight, not too baggy. Comfort is important, but a tailored look always photographs better."
* "Avoid clothing that bunches, wrinkles, or restricts movement."
* Colors:
* "Solid colors are generally best." (They are less distracting).
* "Jewel tones (deep blues, greens, purples, reds) photograph beautifully."
* "Neutrals (grays, browns, creams, blacks, whites) are always a safe and classic choice."
* "Coordinate, don't match, in group photos." (Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color).
* "Consider the background. If we're shooting in a park with lots of green, avoid wearing green. If the background is white, don't wear white."
* "Avoid neons and overly bright colors," (unless specifically part of the desired style).
* Patterns:
* "Small, subtle patterns are okay, but large, bold patterns can be distracting."
* "Avoid busy patterns, especially those with fine lines (moire effect)."
* "Consider patterns carefully; are they dating or timeless?"
* Fabrics:
* "Avoid fabrics that are overly shiny or reflective (e.g., satin, some polyesters). Matte fabrics are usually best."
* "Consider the texture of the fabric. A subtle texture can add interest."
* "Avoid fabrics that wrinkle easily."
* Logos and Graphics:
* "Avoid clothing with large logos or distracting graphics." (These can date the photo and draw attention away from the subject).
* "Small, discreet logos are usually acceptable."
* Accessories:
* "Accessories can add personality, but don't overdo it."
* "Jewelry should be simple and understated."
* "Consider scarves, hats, belts, and other accessories to add interest."
* "Make sure accessories coordinate with the overall outfit."
* Grooming:
* "Make sure your hair is styled and neat."
* "If you wear makeup, apply it naturally."
* "Groom your facial hair (if applicable)."
* "Pay attention to your nails (clean and trimmed)."
B. Specific Advice Based on Portrait Type:
* Professional Headshots:
* "Dress in what you would wear to a meeting with a client or your boss."
* "A well-fitting blazer or jacket is a great choice."
* "Avoid low-cut tops or dresses."
* "Consider your industry. A lawyer might wear a suit, while a creative professional might wear something more casual."
* Family Portraits:
* "Choose a color palette that everyone can work within."
* "Think about the location and season."
* "Consider coordinating outfits, but don't be afraid to let each person express their individual style within the palette."
* "Dress for the weather! Layers are a good option."
* Couples Portraits:
* "Coordinate your outfits without matching exactly."
* "Consider the location and mood."
* "Choose outfits that complement each other."
* "Think about the overall story you want to tell."
* Maternity Portraits:
* "Flowing dresses or skirts are often flattering."
* "Show off your baby bump!"
* "Consider wearing something comfortable and breathable."
* "Think about using textures like lace or knits."
* Senior Portraits:
* "Show off your personality!"
* "Choose outfits that you feel confident and comfortable in."
* "Consider bringing a variety of outfits."
* "Think about your hobbies and interests."
* Boudoir Portraits:
* "Focus on feeling comfortable and confident."
* "Choose lingerie that fits well and flatters your figure."
* "Consider incorporating personal items, such as jewelry or accessories."
* "Think about the mood you want to create."
C. Specific Recommendations for the Shoot (Based on your Vision):
* "For this shoot, I'm envisioning a [classic/modern/bohemian] look."
* "I think [color palette] would work beautifully with the location and lighting."
* "Please avoid [specific colors or patterns] as they might clash with the background."
* "I'd love it if you could bring a [type of clothing] as an option."
IV. Communicating with Your Subject:
1. Send the Wardrobe Guide Well in Advance: Give them ample time to plan their outfits.
2. Offer a Consultation (If Possible): This can be in person, by phone, or video call. Review their ideas and offer personalized suggestions.
3. Ask for Photos of Outfits: Have them send you pictures of the outfits they are considering before the shoot. This is *invaluable*. You can provide feedback and ensure everything works well together.
4. Be Clear and Concise: Use simple language and avoid jargon.
5. Be Encouraging and Supportive: Reassure them that you're there to help them look their best.
6. Be Flexible: Be prepared to make adjustments on the day of the shoot if necessary. Sometimes things look different in person than they do in photos.
7. Explain *Why* You're Making Suggestions: "The reason I'm suggesting this is because..." People are more likely to follow your advice if they understand the reasoning behind it.
8. Empower Them: Ultimately, the decision is theirs, but guide them towards choices that will enhance the final result. "These are just suggestions, and I want you to feel comfortable and like yourself in your photos!"
V. Things to Avoid:
* Being Dictatorial: Don't tell them *exactly* what to wear. Offer suggestions and guidance, but respect their personal style.
* Being Judgmental: Avoid making negative comments about their clothing choices.
* Overcomplicating Things: Keep your advice simple and easy to understand.
* Assuming They Know What Looks Good on Camera: Most people don't! That's why they've hired you.
Example Wardrobe Guide Snippet:
Subject: Family Portrait in a Field at Sunset
* Overall Vibe: Warm, natural, relaxed, golden hour glow.
* Color Palette: Think earthy tones: mustards, rusts, creams, olives, soft blues. Avoid bright primary colors.
* Clothing:
* Mom: Flowing maxi dress or skirt with a knit top. Consider textures like lace or linen.
* Dad: Button-down shirt (untucked) with chinos or dark jeans. A casual jacket or vest would work well.
* Kids: Choose outfits that coordinate with the overall palette. Avoid clothing with large logos or graphics.
* Footwear: Barefoot or comfortable, closed-toe shoes (boots, flats, sneakers). Avoid athletic shoes.
* Accessories: Hats, scarves, simple jewelry, belts.
* Things to Avoid: Neon colors, busy patterns, clothing that is too tight or revealing.
VI. On the Day of the Shoot:
* Confirm their choices: A quick check on arrival ensures everyone is on the same page.
* Have spare items (optional): If you have a studio, consider keeping a small selection of basic items like scarves, shawls, or jackets that can be used to enhance an outfit.
* Be prepared to make minor adjustments: A safety pin, a hair tie, or a lint roller can be a lifesaver!
By taking the time to thoughtfully guide your subjects on wardrobe choices, you'll not only create better portraits but also build trust and confidence with your clients. Good luck!