What to Wear?

One of the first questions I get when booking a portrait session is, "What do I wear?"  This really depends on the personality you want to portray.  Are you going for fun, casual, dreamy, sassy or sophisticated? 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 but for women wear a bracelet or bangle to break up showing skin.
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.  Accentuate your body.
Baggy clothes make you look bulky.  Wear fitted tops instead.
Stay away from anything even slightly risque.  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.
Avoid short skirts or shorts.  Remember to avoid showing too much skin.
Right, she shows how you can wear a simple solid creme color with earth toned accessories.  Her jewelry is simple and a light bracelet is perfect.

Accessories-
Fun funky necklaces and earrings are good.
Jackets, hats, scarves and sunglasses are also good.
Keep rings to a minimum.  One large ring or none is best.

Makeup-

Wear natural looking foundation and powders.

It is a cinch for me to fix a small spot of acne but almost impossible to fix makeup that is too heavy or orange.

Hair-
Bring hairspray or product to smooth fly aways.
Use simple accessories to pull back hair.
You may want to change hairstyles so bring a brush, mirror and water bottle.
Men should have a clean shave.                                                                                                                  

Infants-
Comfort is key. 
Diaper covers are great.

Make sure clothing fits properly and isn't bulky looking.

Many parents opt for natural photos without clothing.

   

Children-

Follow the same basic rules as above but there are some exceptions.

Bright colors can bring life to photos.

Big bows are also fun.

Plain white dresses can be worn by little girls for an antique look.

Right, she is bringing a fun and lively feel to the photo with a brightly colored dress and large hair accessory.

Left, her trendy sandals and simple soft patterned dress allow her face to remain the focal point.

Below, she layers a dress with a jacket and bold jewelry. Again, the beauty of her face remains the focus of the image.

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.

                                                                                                                                                                    

Engagement Sessions-

Bring a dressy and casual look.

Men should dress to compliment the woman's wardrobe in style and color.

Steer clear of excessive jewelry that distracts from the engagement ring.

Left, the couple is wearing a casual outfit with differing colors but they compliment one another in their light natural tones.

Below they are breaking the rule of wearing white but have balanced it so that one person does not draw attention away from the other.  Their wardrobes also compliment the location. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Maternity-

Simple solid colored black and white tops are favorites.

Showing your skin is acceptable.

Stretch marks can be edited out.

Tight tops that cling to the belly are fine.

Long tops should not bunch together below the belly.

Loose or stretchy pants that make it comfortable to sit and move around are best.

Long flowy skirts are comfortable.

Take your sense of style and level of comfort into account when choosing a wardrobe.

A man's button down shirt is an option.
Cardigans that button down and v-neck shirts are figure flattering.

Family-

Do not match exact outfits or wear white shirts.

Jeans and similar colors like all earth tones, blues, pastel colors etc.. are better.

You should match in style. 

One person should not stand out from the others.

Left is a good example of a family matching in style and color but not matching exactly.