I. Before the Shoot: Clear Communication & Guidance
* Provide a Style Guide (Highly Recommended): Create a PDF document or webpage that outlines your recommendations. This shows professionalism and gives subjects a tangible reference. Include:
* Your Overall Aesthetic: Describe the style you aim for (e.g., timeless, modern, casual, formal, bohemian). Include sample images from your portfolio that reflect this style.
* Color Palette Suggestions: Choose 2-3 complementary color palettes that you think will work well with the location, background, and your style. Suggest solid colors and muted tones.
* Do's and Don'ts: Be specific about what to wear and what to avoid (see details in section II).
* Examples: Include photos of good and bad clothing choices.
* Inspiration Boards: Pinterest boards can be a great source of visual inspiration. Share a link.
* Consider Location: Suggest attire that complements the setting. Formal wear might feel out of place in a park.
* Link to your website, social media or contact details
* Initial Consultation (Phone or Email): Before sending the style guide, have a brief conversation with your subject. This allows you to:
* Understand their vision: What are they hoping to achieve with the portraits? What are their favorite colors and styles?
* Gauge their comfort level: Are they open to suggestions, or do they have a strong personal style they want to maintain?
* Address any specific needs: Do they have any concerns about their appearance? Are they self-conscious about certain body parts?
* Explain the Importance: Briefly explain why wardrobe choices matter, emphasizing how they can enhance the portraits.
* Offer a Pre-Shoot Consultation (Optional but Valuable): If possible, offer a more in-depth consultation where they can bring a selection of outfits for you to review in person.
* Timeline: Send the style guide and make initial contact well in advance of the shoot (at least 1-2 weeks). This gives them ample time to shop, try on clothes, and ask questions.
II. What to Tell Your Subjects: The Do's and Don'ts of Portrait Clothing
* DO's (Focus on these positive suggestions):
* Focus on Fit: Well-fitting clothing is crucial. Suggest tailored items or clothes that skim the body without being too tight or baggy.
* Choose Solid Colors: Solid colors photograph best and avoid distracting patterns. Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) and muted earth tones (rust, olive, beige) are often flattering.
* Consider Layering: Layers add visual interest and dimension. Think vests, jackets, scarves, cardigans.
* Select Classic Styles: Timeless pieces will ensure the photos look good for years to come. Avoid overly trendy items.
* Coordinate (if applicable): For group portraits, choose a cohesive color palette. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same thing, but ensure the outfits complement each other. (e.g., all wear muted colors, some with blue, grey, brown etc).
* Accessorize Thoughtfully: Jewelry, scarves, hats, and belts can add personality, but keep it simple and avoid anything too distracting.
* Dress for the Season and Location: Consider the weather and the environment. A summer dress won't work in a snowy landscape.
* DON'Ts (Explain *why* these are problematic):
* Avoid Busy Patterns: Stripes, checks, polka dots, and large floral prints can be distracting and unflattering. They can also create moiré patterns in digital photos.
* Say No to Logos: Logos draw attention away from the subject's face and can date the photos.
* Steer Clear of Neon Colors: Neon colors can cast unflattering hues on the skin.
* Avoid Overly Tight or Baggy Clothes: Tight clothing can accentuate unflattering areas, while baggy clothing can make the subject look larger than they are.
* Don't Wear Anything Uncomfortable: If your subject is uncomfortable, it will show in their expression and posture.
* Avoid Clothes That Don't Flatter Your Body Type: Know your body shape and choose clothing that flatters it.
III. During the Shoot: Flexibility and Encouragement
* Be Prepared to Offer Guidance: Even after sending the style guide, your subject may still need help. Be prepared to offer advice on the day of the shoot.
* Bring Safety Pins and Other Supplies: A small sewing kit, safety pins, and tape can be lifesavers for quick wardrobe adjustments.
* Encourage Variety: If possible, have your subject bring several outfits to choose from. This allows for variety and gives you more options.
* Prioritize Comfort and Confidence: The most important thing is that your subject feels comfortable and confident in their clothing. If they are uncomfortable, it will show in the photos.
* Positive Reinforcement: Offer compliments and encouragement throughout the shoot. Let them know what looks great and why.
* Don't Be Afraid to Make Suggestions: If something isn't working, gently suggest an alternative. Explain your reasoning clearly and professionally.
* Remember it's Their Portrait: Be respectful of their personal style. While you can offer guidance, ultimately, the decision is theirs. Focus on capturing their personality and making them feel good about themselves.
IV. Specific Scenarios:
* Family Portraits: Coordinate colors and styles to create a cohesive look. Suggest choosing 2-3 colors and having everyone wear variations of those colors.
* Headshots (Business/Professional): Focus on professional attire that is appropriate for the industry. Neutral colors like navy, gray, and black are often good choices.
* Senior Portraits: Encourage the subject to express their personality through their clothing. A mix of casual and dressy outfits is often a good idea.
* Maternity Portraits: Choose flowing, comfortable fabrics that accentuate the baby bump. Soft colors and natural textures are often flattering.
Example Phrases to Use:
* "I'm thinking soft, muted colors would look stunning against this backdrop."
* "That top is gorgeous, but it might be a bit distracting in a photo. Do you have anything with a solid color?"
* "The fit of this dress is perfect on you!"
* "I love the idea of adding a scarf to bring out the color in your eyes."
* "For these types of photos, solid colors tend to look the best because they don't distract from your face."
* "I'm getting a really nice, relaxed vibe from this outfit. It really suits you."
* "This outfit is great, but is there something that is more *you*?"
By providing clear guidance, being flexible, and offering positive encouragement, you can help your subjects choose the perfect clothing for their portraits and create stunning images that they will cherish for years to come. Remember, it's a collaborative process! Good communication is key.