If you want to take your portraits to the next level, choose your wardrobe and styling options carefully!
Here are 10 simple tips:
1. Choose styles that won't age quickly.
These photos will be displayed and cherished for the rest of your life. You want to say "Awwww" in 10 years. Ideally not "What was I thinking?!"
2. Avoid small striped patterns or textures.
The reason for this is primarily technical, as it often causes an odd effect called "moire." Learn more by clicking here. Extreme cases can prove difficult to fix in editing.
3. Avoid mixing or incorporating very busy patterns.
It tends to draw the attention away from faces and relationships and can often be visually distracting.
4. Wear clothing that fits well.
If it's too big or too small, you will notice in the photos later and kick yourself for it!
5. Choose complimentary colors.
Be aware of incorporating colors that clash!
6. Wear something you feel compliments your body type and makes you feel confident.
You should love your outfit and feel prepared to slay!
7. Consider the scene in which your session will take place.
One of my favorite things to do for a more artistic feel is to coordinate *with* the scene vs. coordinating only those within it. It's subtle but gives your photo an overall cohesive look. I do this primarily with fine art sessions where I plan things like color and composition more in-depth. I notice this level of planning and coordination in movies and media ALL. THE. TIME. NOW.
8. Choose outfits that make sense with the season as well as with one another.
If it's snowing... don't just plan to freeze your tush off!
If mom is decked to the nines in a formal dress but dad is in a printed tee, sneakers and a baseball cap it will be the first thing people notice, and that's nobody's goal. Make sure your outfits make sense. Unless it's fine art, in which case by all means think outside the box and be extraordinary!
9. Avoid logos and graphic tees.
Unless they're a part of the main theme, of course.
10. Don't forget the shoes and accessories.
It may seem minor, but the visual impact shouldn't be underestimated.
Finally, rules are meant to be broken.
If you're going to break them, however, do it with purpose and intentionality. Be creative, challenge every single one if you must. But do it with your overall vision in mind.
Ultimately you will love your photos if they're a reflection of you, so take all of this with a grain of salt.
As always, if you have any thoughts or questions I'm happy to chat!
