I. Pre-Session Communication: Setting the Stage
* The Questionnaire/Consultation: A pre-shoot questionnaire or brief phone/video consultation is invaluable. This allows you to:
* Understand their vision: What are they hoping to achieve with the portrait? (e.g., professional headshot, family heirloom, celebratory milestone)
* Determine the style and setting: Where will the portrait be taken (studio, outdoors, at their home)? What's the desired mood (formal, casual, playful, serious)? What's the background style (natural, plain, textured, themed)?
* Discuss color palettes and overall aesthetic: Talk about your shooting style (warm, cool, bright, moody, classic, trendy).
* Share Inspiration: Show them examples of your work or other portraits that resonate with the desired style and feel. This helps them visualize the end result.
* Address Concerns: Allow them to ask questions about anything that makes them uncomfortable.
* The Clothing Guide (Send This in Advance): A written guide or PDF is a must-have. It provides clear, concise instructions and helps avoid confusion. Include all the points below.
II. The Clothing Guide: Key Considerations
A. General Principles:
* Comfort and Confidence: Emphasize that the most important thing is that they feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing. If they feel good, it will show in the photos.
* Fit is Key: Clothes that fit well are essential. Avoid clothing that is too tight or too baggy. Tailoring can make a huge difference.
* Timelessness: Suggest classic styles and colors that won't look dated in a few years.
* Consider the Location: Clothing should be appropriate for the location. A formal gown might look out of place in a casual park setting, and vice versa.
B. Colors and Patterns:
* Solid Colors are Generally Best: Solid colors are less distracting than busy patterns and help the focus stay on the face.
* Coordinate, Don't Match: For group portraits, aim for a coordinated color palette rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing. Choose 2-3 complementary colors and have people incorporate them into their outfits.
* Avoid Logos and Graphics: Logos and graphics can be distracting and make the photos look dated quickly.
* Consider Skin Tone and Hair Color: Suggest colors that complement their skin tone and hair color.
* Fair Skin: Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) and pastels often work well. Avoid colors that wash them out.
* Medium Skin: A wide range of colors will work, including earth tones, jewel tones, and bright colors.
* Dark Skin: Rich, saturated colors look fantastic, as do lighter shades. Avoid colors that are too close to their skin tone.
* Red Hair: Earthy greens, blues, and browns are often flattering. Avoid reds and oranges that clash.
* Blonde Hair: Jewel tones, pastels, and navy blue can look stunning.
* Brunette Hair: A wide range of colors work well, including jewel tones, earth tones, and bright colors.
* Consider Background Color: Select outfits that contrast with, or complement, the background color. A pale outfit on a pale background can wash out the subject.
C. Necklines and Sleeves:
* Necklines: Choose necklines that flatter their face and body shape.
* V-necks: Generally flattering for most people, as they elongate the neck.
* Scoop necks: Soft and feminine.
* Crew necks: Classic and versatile.
* Avoid: Extremely high or low necklines that can be distracting.
* Sleeves: Consider sleeves that are flattering and appropriate for the season and location. Long or 3/4 sleeves are often more flattering than sleeveless tops. Avoid clothing that cuts off at the widest point of the arm.
D. Accessories:
* Keep it Simple: Too many accessories can be distracting. Suggest 1-2 well-chosen pieces.
* Jewelry: Classic and understated jewelry is best. Avoid large, chunky pieces that will draw attention away from the face.
* Scarves: Scarves can add color and texture to an outfit.
* Hats: Hats can be a fun accessory, but make sure they don't cast shadows on the face.
* Glasses: If they normally wear glasses, they should wear them for the portrait. Consider asking them to bring an extra pair if they have them, in case of glare. Also, talk to them about the option of getting a non-glare coating on their lenses or the possibility of borrowing frames without lenses from their optometrist.
E. Specific Examples/Do's and Don'ts:
* Do:
* Wear well-fitting clothes.
* Choose solid colors or subtle patterns.
* Coordinate colors for group portraits.
* Wear comfortable shoes that you can stand in for a while.
* Bring a change of clothes (optional).
* Make sure clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.
* Don't:
* Wear clothing with logos or graphics.
* Wear clothing that is too tight or too baggy.
* Wear overly bright or distracting colors.
* Wear shoes that you can't walk or stand in comfortably.
* Wear clothing that is wrinkled or stained.
F. Grooming:
* Hair: Suggest they get their hair styled as they normally would. Avoid trying out a new hairstyle right before the shoot.
* Makeup: If they wear makeup, suggest they wear it as they normally would, but maybe a little bit more. Avoid overly dramatic makeup. Bring powder for touch-ups.
* Nails: Make sure nails are clean and well-manicured. A neutral color is best.
III. During the Session:
* Offer Feedback: Don't be afraid to offer gentle and constructive feedback on their clothing or posing during the shoot.
* Adjust as Needed: Be prepared to adjust your lighting and settings to accommodate their clothing choices.
* Positive Reinforcement: Compliment their clothing and how it looks in the photos.
IV. Example Wording for your Guide:
* "The goal is to capture you looking your best! Choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable."
* "Solid colors photograph beautifully. Consider jewel tones, earth tones, or soft pastels."
* "For family portraits, let's create a cohesive look. Think about a color palette of 2-3 colors that complement each other."
* "Avoid clothing with busy patterns, logos, or graphics that can be distracting."
* "Accessorize thoughtfully. A simple necklace or scarf can add interest, but avoid anything too overwhelming."
* "Grooming is key! Make sure your hair is styled as you normally would, and your makeup is natural and flattering."
V. Tailoring your Advice to Specific Portrait Types:
* Professional Headshots: Focus on clean, professional attire. Solid-colored blazers, button-down shirts, and dresses are good choices. Consider the industry. A lawyer would dress differently than an artist.
* Family Portraits: Coordinate a color palette and choose clothing that reflects your family's style.
* Maternity Portraits: Flowing dresses, wraps, and comfortable fabrics are ideal. Consider showing off the baby bump.
* Senior Portraits: Encourage them to showcase their personality and style. Multiple outfits are a good idea.
* Engagement Portraits: Choose clothing that is comfortable and stylish. Consider the location and season.
Key Takeaways:
* Be Clear and Specific: Avoid vague advice. Provide concrete examples and suggestions.
* Be Encouraging and Supportive: Help your subjects feel confident and excited about the photoshoot.
* Be Flexible: Be willing to work with your subjects' personal style and preferences while still guiding them towards the best possible look for their portraits.
* Visual Aids: Use images in your guides to show examples of good and bad choices. Pinterest boards can be a great resource to share inspiration.
By following these guidelines, you can help your subjects choose clothing that will make them look and feel their best, resulting in stunning portraits that you and your clients will cherish for years to come. Good luck!