what to wear to a photo shoot

​When we are working out the details of a shoot with a client we inevitably get asked “What should I wear?”  The answer to this question differs from shoot to shoot since some of what we shoot is themed (i.e. vintage portraits in the park or Christmas sessions), but there are a few “rules” that we, and many other photographers, generally stick to.

1. Keep location in mind

If we are going to the beach then heels are probably not the best choice. Likewise, flip flops are not wise if we’ll be traipsing through tall grass. Those are practical choices that are sometimes forgotten when we are deciding which shoes look cutest with our outfit at home. On a similar note, wearing beige to the beach or green to a forested location might also be unwise. 

2. Coordinate without matching

3. Keep pattern and contrast in mind

​Rather than explain this one I’m going to just share some great graphics from Pinterest to show patterns and contrast and how to mix darks with lights, brights with neutrals, and patterns with solids. Choose one person to wear the “anchor” outfit (i.e. the pattern) and coordinate from there.

4.  Make a photo interesting and unified with accessories
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Accessories are often just what a photo needs to take it from drab to engaging. Don’t limit yourself to jewelry when you think about accessories for photo shoots. There’s plenty to choose from for both sexes and all ages – outerwear, jewelry, hats, headbands, flowers in a girl’s hair, scarves and more.  You want to use a light hand when it comes to accessorizing. Too many accessories, especially if they are big or bright, can overwhelm a photo and take the focus off what is really important – your subjects! This is particularly true for little ones. Remember, accessories are just there to enhance what your subjects are bringing to the photo – their personality and beauty.

5. Everything matters from top to bottom … Yes that includes shoes!

​Everything that is worn or used in a photo shoot affects the look and feel of each photo. This includes shoes. Don’t let shoes and footwear be an overlooked part of your outfit planning. A pair of shoes that doesn’t fit in with the rest of the photo can distract from the vibe of the photo. Choosing a pair of flats that fit in with the colour scheme is a great way to make a photo look great and add a burst of colour. Shoes, when matched with accessories that other subjects in the photo are wearing can tie a photo together. Bright yellow ballet f lats can match a man’s yellow tie or a little girl’s headband. This creates a unified feel without making it too cutesy. Consider going barefoot if the shoot allows for it. Bare feet can create a rustic casual feel that better shows of the natural personality and interaction of the subjects in the photo.

6. Be yourself

​You are not going to fall in love with images of yourself wearing a brightly patterned floral dress if you are a woman who almost always wears black. Similarly, men forced into a button down and vest that always wear rock band T-shirts are going to think they look ridiculous. If your usual style is not the sort of thing you want to hang on your wall then find a happy medium. When you purchase photographic artwork you are doing so because you want to remember the love, joy and experience of now in the most beautiful way possible. Stay true to your family and yourself when making wardrobe choices to make that happen.