1. Pre-Shoot Communication: The Importance of Planning
* Don't leave it to chance! Start discussing clothing well in advance of the shoot. This gives your subjects time to plan, shop, and prepare.
* Initial Consultation: Ideally, have a conversation (phone, video call, or in-person) to understand their vision for the portraits. Ask about:
* Purpose of the photos: (e.g., professional headshots, family portraits, dating profile, personal art)
* Desired aesthetic: (e.g., classic, modern, casual, formal, artistic, natural)
* Location: (e.g., studio, outdoors, home – the environment will influence clothing choices)
* Colors they like/dislike: (This is especially important!)
* Their personal style: Are they comfortable in jeans or prefer a dress?
* Written Guide or Email: Follow up with a written guide or email summarizing your conversation and providing specific recommendations. This gives them something to refer back to.
2. General Guidelines (Applicable to Most Portrait Sessions)
* Fit is Key: Clothes should fit well. Not too tight, not too baggy. Ill-fitting clothes can look unflattering in photos.
* Comfort is Important: If they're not comfortable, it will show in their expressions. Encourage them to choose clothes they feel confident and relaxed in.
* Avoid Distractions:
* Logos and Graphics: Large logos, busy patterns, and text can distract from the subject's face.
* Trendy Items: Avoid overly trendy items that might look dated quickly. Timeless pieces are best.
* Shiny or Reflective Fabrics: These can create unwanted highlights and reflections, especially with studio lighting. (Satin is usually okay if it's not too shiny)
* Solid Colors are Generally Best: Solid colors allow the focus to remain on the subject's face.
* Coordinate, Don't Match: (Especially for group portraits) Choose a color palette and have everyone coordinate within that palette. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same outfit. Think complementary colors and textures.
* Consider Undergarments: Advise them to wear appropriate undergarments (nude tones are usually safest) and check for visible bra straps.
* Iron or Steam Clothes: Wrinkles are very noticeable in photographs.
* Bring Options: Encourage them to bring a few different outfits so you can choose the best one based on the lighting, background, and overall mood.
3. Specific Recommendations Based on Portrait Type
* Professional Headshots:
* Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.
* Business Attire: Suit, dress shirt and tie, blazer, or a professional-looking dress.
* Consider the industry: Creative fields might allow for more casual attire.
* Avoid busy patterns and bright colors that might distract.
* Choose colors that complement their skin tone and eye color.
* Jewelry: Keep jewelry minimal and professional.
* Family Portraits:
* Choose a color palette. Examples: Neutrals (cream, beige, gray), Earth tones (brown, green, rust), Jewel tones (deep blue, emerald green, burgundy), Pastels (light pink, baby blue, lavender).
* Think about the location. Will you be in a park with lots of green? Or a beach with sand and blue water? Choose colors that will complement the environment.
* Vary textures and shades within the color palette.
* Consider the season: Lighter colors in spring/summer, darker and warmer colors in fall/winter.
* Avoid matching outfits exactly. Aim for coordination.
* Couple Portraits:
* Complement each other's style.
* Choose colors that look good together.
* Avoid clashing patterns.
* Coordinate the level of formality. (e.g., both casual or both dressed up)
* Maternity Portraits:
* Comfort is paramount.
* Form-fitting clothes can showcase the baby bump. Think dresses, stretchy tops, and leggings.
* Flowing fabrics can create a romantic and ethereal look.
* Consider a simple, solid-colored dress to highlight the belly.
* Partners should coordinate colors and styles with the expectant mother.
* Senior Portraits:
* Showcase their personality. This is their chance to express themselves.
* Variety is key. Encourage them to bring different outfits that reflect their interests and activities.
* Consider their school colors and activities.
* Focus on flattering fit and comfortable clothing.
* Children's Portraits:
* Comfort and practicality are essential. They need to be able to move and play freely.
* Durable fabrics that can withstand stains are a good idea.
* Avoid anything too fussy or restrictive.
* Choose bright and cheerful colors.
* Consider their favorite characters or themes.
4. Specific Things to Avoid
* Clothing that is too tight or revealing. This can be distracting and uncomfortable.
* Busy patterns or stripes (especially fine stripes). These can create moiré patterns in photographs.
* Neons or overly bright colors. These can reflect onto the skin and create unflattering color casts.
* Wrinkled or stained clothing. Make sure everything is clean and pressed.
* Clothing that doesn't fit the occasion or location. (e.g., a formal gown at the beach)
5. Delivery and Tone of Communication
* Be clear and concise: Use simple language and avoid technical jargon.
* Be friendly and approachable: Make your subjects feel comfortable asking questions.
* Be helpful and supportive: Offer suggestions and resources.
* Be respectful of their personal style: Don't try to force them into something they don't like.
* Emphasize the importance of their input: Let them know that their vision is important to you.
* Provide examples: Include visual examples of clothing styles and color palettes that you recommend. You can create a Pinterest board or share images from your portfolio.
* Offer to review outfit choices: Ask them to send you photos of their outfit options before the shoot so you can give feedback.
Example Email/Guide:
Subject: Preparing for Your Portrait Session!
Hi [Subject Name],
I'm so excited for your portrait session on [Date] at [Location]! To help you prepare, I've put together some guidelines for clothing choices. The goal is to create beautiful and timeless images that you'll cherish.
As we discussed, we're aiming for a [Desired Aesthetic - e.g., classic and elegant] look. Here are some recommendations:
* Colors: For this shoot, I think [Color Palette - e.g., soft neutrals like creams, beiges, and grays] would work beautifully against the [Location - e.g., natural greenery of the park].
* Clothing Style: I recommend [Specific Recommendations - e.g., a simple dress or a blouse with dress pants. Avoid anything too busy or distracting].
* Fit: Please make sure your clothes fit well and are comfortable to wear.
* What to Avoid: Please avoid wearing anything with large logos, busy patterns, or neon colors. Also, avoid clothes that are too tight or revealing.
* Bring Options! It's always a good idea to bring a few different outfits so we can choose the best one on the day of the shoot.
Here are some examples of clothing that would work well: [Link to Pinterest board or sample images].
Please feel free to send me photos of your outfit choices if you'd like me to take a look. I'm happy to offer suggestions!
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
See you soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
Important Considerations:
* Your Style: Consider your own photographic style. If you're a fine art photographer, you might have more specific and artistic requirements.
* Client Expectations: Be realistic about what your clients are willing to do. Some people are more comfortable following instructions than others.
* Flexibility: Be prepared to be flexible and adapt your recommendations based on your client's preferences and circumstances.
* Post-Processing: Keep in mind that some clothing issues can be fixed in post-processing (e.g., removing minor wrinkles or logos), but it's always better to get it right in camera.
By providing clear, helpful, and personalized guidance, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will enhance their portraits and create stunning, memorable images. Good luck!