1. Before the Shoot: Communication is Key
* Send a Pre-Shoot Guide: This is the most effective way to communicate your expectations. A well-crafted guide is much easier to digest than a long email or conversation. Include visual examples (mood boards or Pinterest boards) for inspiration.
* Direct Communication (Email, Phone, or Video Call): Supplement the guide with a personal touch. Discuss their style preferences, the shoot's purpose, and the location. Addressing concerns and answering questions beforehand builds trust.
* Understand Their Style: Ask them about their usual clothing choices. Tailor your suggestions to complement their personal style while aligning with the shoot's aesthetic. Don't ask them to wear something completely outside their comfort zone.
* Consider the Location and Background: Mention the location and background colors. Explain how certain colors and textures will interact with the environment.
* The "Why": Explain *why* you're making these suggestions. "Darker colors tend to be more slimming," or "Solid colors work best to avoid distractions" can help them understand your reasoning.
2. Content of Your Pre-Shoot Guide:
* Overall Vibe/Mood: Describe the feeling you want the portraits to evoke (e.g., professional, casual, romantic, playful). Use adjectives like "classic," "modern," "bohemian," or "formal."
* Color Palette:
* General Guidelines: "Think neutral tones (creams, grays, tans, olives) and earthy colors (burgundy, navy, forest green)." "Avoid bright, neon colors that can reflect onto the skin."
* Complementary Colors: Suggest colors that will complement each other if multiple people are in the photos. Consider color theory!
* Specific Colors to Avoid: Be upfront about colors you *don't* want (e.g., "Please avoid wearing bright red or orange as they can be difficult to photograph.")
* Clothing Styles:
* Dos: "Well-fitting clothes are essential. Avoid anything too tight or too baggy." "Consider layers for added interest and variety." "Long sleeves are generally more flattering than sleeveless tops." "Classic silhouettes are timeless."
* Don'ts: "Avoid clothes with large logos or distracting patterns." "Stay away from clothes with wrinkles." "Steer clear of clothing that is see-through or overly revealing."
* Fabric & Texture:
* "Fabrics with texture (like linen, corduroy, or knits) can add depth to the photos."
* "Avoid shiny or reflective fabrics that can create unwanted highlights."
* Accessories:
* "Keep accessories minimal and classic."
* "Small, delicate jewelry is often more flattering than large, chunky pieces."
* "Consider bringing a hat or scarf for added variety."
* Shoes: "Shoes are often visible, so make sure they are clean and in good condition. Choose footwear that complements the overall outfit."
* Grooming:
* "Freshly showered and styled hair is essential."
* "Make sure nails are clean and neatly trimmed."
* "Men: Be sure to shave or trim your beard/mustache."
* What to Bring:
* "Bring a few different outfit options to the shoot."
* "Bring comfortable shoes to wear between shots."
* "Don't forget essential items like hair ties, bobby pins, and makeup for touch-ups."
* Example Outfits (Visuals): Include pictures of outfits that fit your desired style. Pinterest boards are great for this.
* Contact Information: Provide your phone number or email address for any questions.
3. During the Shoot:
* Be Observant: When they arrive, assess their outfits. If something isn't working, address it gently.
* Offer Subtle Adjustments: "Could you try unbuttoning the top button?" or "Let's roll up your sleeves a bit."
* Don't Be Afraid to Suggest a Change: If an outfit is truly unflattering or distracting, politely suggest they change. Be prepared with a backup plan (e.g., offering a scarf from your own collection). Phrase it like, "I'm really trying to achieve X look, and I think Outfit B would work a little better. Could we try that?"
* Prioritize Comfort and Confidence: Ultimately, your subject needs to feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing. A genuine smile and relaxed posture are more important than the "perfect" outfit.
Example Scenarios & Phrasing:
* If they show up in a busy pattern: "That's a lovely shirt, but for these portraits, we're aiming for a more timeless and less distracting look. Do you have another option with you that's a solid color or a more subtle pattern?"
* If their clothing is wrinkled: "The lighting is really highlighting a few wrinkles in your shirt. Do you happen to have another top we could try? If not, maybe we can try adjusting the pose or camera angle."
* If the color clashes with the background: "The [color] of your shirt is reflecting a bit too much onto your skin in this light. Would you mind changing into the [color] top you brought? It would really complement the background we're using."
* If their jewelry is distracting: "That necklace is beautiful, but it's drawing a lot of attention away from your face. Perhaps we could try a simpler necklace, or no necklace at all?"
Key Considerations:
* Type of Portrait: A headshot for LinkedIn will have different clothing requirements than a family portrait at the beach. Tailor your advice accordingly.
* Client's Budget: Be mindful of your client's budget when suggesting outfits. Don't recommend expensive items they can't afford.
* Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of cultural norms and traditions regarding clothing.
* Body Type and Shape: Offer advice that is flattering to different body types. Avoid making generalizations or negative comments about their body.
* Collaboration: Make it clear that you're working *with* them to achieve the best possible results. Listen to their concerns and be willing to compromise.
By providing clear, kind, and collaborative guidance, you can help your subjects choose clothing that enhances their portraits and contributes to a successful and enjoyable photoshoot. Remember that ultimately, capturing their personality and making them feel confident is the most important goal.