Clothing for Portraits: Guiding Your Subjects to Success
Clothing can make or break a portrait. It can tell a story, create a mood, and complement (or clash with) the subject's personality and the overall aesthetic you're aiming for. Here's how to guide your subjects on what to wear for a successful portrait session:
1. Communicate Clearly and Early:
* Send a detailed email or document *well in advance* of the shoot. Don't leave it to the last minute. This gives your subjects time to plan, shop, and try things on.
* Be specific. Avoid vague terms like "dress nicely." Provide concrete examples and clear guidance.
* Offer a consultation (optional but highly recommended). A brief phone call or video chat can help you understand their style, answer questions, and refine your recommendations.
2. Know Your Vision and Communicate It:
* What's the purpose of the portrait? Is it for professional headshots, family memories, a creative personal project, or something else? The purpose will drastically affect clothing choices.
* What's the overall mood and style you're going for? (e.g., classic, modern, casual, formal, bohemian, etc.) Share mood boards or example photos to illustrate your vision.
* What's the location like? (e.g., studio with a neutral backdrop, outdoors in a park, urban setting, etc.) The clothing should complement the environment. Consider the colors and textures present.
* What colors will you use (backdrops, lighting)? Knowing the colors in your setup allows you to suggest complementary colors for your subject's attire.
3. General Guidelines for ALL Portrait Sessions:
* Fit is Key: Clothing that fits well is paramount. Too tight or too loose will be unflattering. Encourage subjects to try on outfits and move around to ensure comfort and proper fit.
* Avoid Distracting Patterns & Logos: Large, busy patterns and prominent logos can draw attention away from the face. Small, subtle patterns can sometimes work, but err on the side of simplicity. Generally, solid colors are best.
* Consider Necklines: Necklines significantly impact the overall look. Crew necks are classic and conservative. V-necks elongate the neck and are generally flattering. Avoid extremely low-cut or distracting necklines.
* Think About Layers: Layers add depth and visual interest. A jacket, cardigan, scarf, or even a simple necklace can elevate the look.
* Coordinate (But Don't Match!) (Especially for group/family portraits): Choose a color palette of 2-3 colors and have everyone incorporate those colors into their outfits. Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color. Different shades and textures within the chosen palette create visual harmony.
* Iron Everything! Wrinkles are a photographer's nightmare. Make sure everything is freshly ironed or steamed.
* Jewelry: Keep it simple and avoid anything overly flashy that might distract from the subject's face.
4. Specific Recommendations Based on Portrait Type:
* Professional Headshots:
* Focus: Professionalism, confidence, and approachability.
* Colors: Solid colors that complement their skin tone. Navy, charcoal gray, deep jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) often work well. Avoid white or very light colors that can wash them out or cause camera issues.
* Fit: Well-tailored clothing that fits impeccably.
* Details: A simple, elegant necklace or watch.
* Men: A well-fitting suit or blazer with a collared shirt. Tie optional (but if wearing a tie, make sure it's clean, pressed, and tied correctly).
* Women: A well-fitting blazer, sweater, or blouse. Avoid overly distracting jewelry or accessories.
* Family Portraits:
* Focus: Coordination, comfort, and reflecting the family's style.
* Colors: Choose a color palette and stick to it. Consider the location and season. For example, earth tones and muted colors work well in outdoor autumn settings.
* Fit: Comfortable clothing that allows for movement and posing.
* Style: Determine whether you want a casual, semi-formal, or formal look for the family. Communicate this to your subjects so they can plan accordingly.
* Details: Consider incorporating textures like denim, knitwear, or lace to add visual interest.
* Engagement/Couples Portraits:
* Focus: Reflecting the couple's personality and style.
* Colors: Colors that complement each other and the location.
* Fit: Clothing that makes them feel confident and comfortable.
* Style: Encourage them to wear outfits that represent their relationship and personal style. One outfit could be more casual and relaxed, while the other could be more dressed up.
* Children's Portraits:
* Focus: Comfort, playfulness, and capturing their personality.
* Colors: Bright and cheerful colors (but avoid overly distracting patterns).
* Fit: Clothing that allows for movement and play.
* Safety: Avoid clothing with long strings or anything that could be a choking hazard.
* Consider the child's preferences: Involve them in the decision-making process to increase their comfort and cooperation during the shoot.
5. What to Avoid (General):
* Clothing that doesn't fit well: Too tight or too loose.
* Busy patterns: Stripes, plaids, floral prints can be distracting.
* Large logos or graphics: These draw attention away from the subject's face.
* Neons and overly bright colors: Can create color casts and be difficult to photograph.
* Clothing with wrinkles: Iron or steam everything.
* Turtlenecks (sometimes): Can shorten the neck (though sometimes they work well with specific face shapes and styles).
* Extremely trendy clothing: May look dated quickly. Classic styles tend to be more timeless.
* Anything that makes the subject uncomfortable: Comfort is key for a natural and relaxed expression.
6. Providing Examples:
* Create a Pinterest board: Share examples of outfits that you think would work well.
* Show examples from your own portfolio: Highlight portraits where the clothing contributed positively to the overall image.
* Ask your subject to send photos of their potential outfits: This allows you to provide feedback and make suggestions before the shoot.
7. Be Tactful and Respectful:
* Frame your suggestions as recommendations, not demands. You want your subjects to feel comfortable and confident.
* Be sensitive to their personal style and preferences. Find a balance between your artistic vision and their comfort level.
* Focus on the positive. Instead of saying "That shirt won't work," try saying "I think a different color would really make your eyes pop!"
* Be prepared to compromise. It's their portrait too, and their comfort and happiness are essential.
8. On the Day of the Shoot:
* Have a steamer or iron on hand for last-minute touch-ups.
* Bring extra safety pins, lint rollers, and stain remover wipes.
* Be prepared to offer gentle guidance if needed.
Key Takeaway:
Open communication, clear guidance, and a collaborative approach are essential for helping your subjects choose the perfect clothing for their portraits. By providing thoughtful suggestions and respecting their personal style, you can create images that are both aesthetically pleasing and authentically representative of the individual or group being photographed.