His Session Styling Guide

What do I Wear?

This is one of the first questions I get when booking a portrait session. As a photographer I want you to relax and feel comfortable. When you are happy with the way you look it makes it easier for me to dig down and capture a piece of you through the lens. No one knows your personal attributes and flaws better than you. Highlight the good and tone down the bad. If there is something you are worried about let me know and we can work around it.


Think simple. Simple does not mean dull, boring or unattractive but your face should be the main focus of the portrait. Your best bet is to bring several outfit changes and if you need some advice I will be happy to help you out. I do allow wardrobe changes during sessions and encourage you to take advantage for more options when proofing.



Listed below are some suggestions for garment choices. Not every session is the same and sometimes breaking the rules can be fun. Just remember that YOU are the main focus. Have a good time and relax.

Shirts-

Blaring patterns are distracting. Instead opt for softer patterns or solids.

The best kind of necks are V-necks.

Collared shirts work well for men.

Avoid sleeveless shirts. Very few people like how their arms look in these type of shirts.

Short sleeves are ok.

Stripes should be vertical and in a light shade.

Wear colors like black, blue, burgundy, cream and light pastel shades.

Avoid white shirts. The eye will be automatically drawn to it instead of your face.

Dark tops bring the focus up to your face and can make elegant portraits.

Also, black is slimming : )

Don't go overboard because all black can be boring. Just bring a dark top as an option.

Stay away from blaring bright oranges, purples, greens and reds. They can really bring out skin tone flaws.

No shiny fabric.

Layers are good.

Shirts should not be too short and hit at least at the hip.
Baggy clothes make you look bulky. Wear fitted tops instead.

 More skin showing means less focus on the face.

Shirts with words and logos are distracting.


Bottoms-

Denim is a great fabric for photos.

Distressed and textured styles are great.

Stay away from extreme light washed looks on the thighs.

Accessories-

Jackets, hats, scarves and sunglasses are also good.

Just make sure the hat will not be casting a harsh shadow on your face if outside.

Keep rings to a minimum. One large ring such as your class ring or none is best.

Hair-

Bring hairspray or product to smooth fly-aways.

You may want to change hairstyles so bring a brush, mirror and water bottle.

Men should have a clean shave.

Teens-

Express yourself.

It is ok to bring trendy fun clothing but include a simple look as well.

Wear sports jerseys or helmets and accessories.

Inspiration-

Check out the website of your favorite clothing store or one of these sites that I love for the trendy design but simple earth tones which photograph well.

http://www.buckle.com/mens

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/index.jsp

http://bananarepublic.gap.com/

http://www.jcrew.com/mens-clothing.jsp

http://www.ralphlauren.com/