What To Wear

Memorable portraits take careful planning, and the clothing you choose is very important to successfully achieve a timeless photograph. These guidelines will help you to make important decisions about your portrait and what you should wear to a photo session.

Families

In a family group, proper clothing coordination is critical. When decorating a home, a major concern is to coordinate the colors and tones of the walls, carpets, draperies and furniture. This kind of coordination also is necessary when selecting clothing for a group portrait. Choose clothing in the same tonal ranges so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as compared to the rest of the group.

Tips on Clothing Styles and Accesories

  • Very simple garments always photograph best.
  • Turtle necks or V-necks are flattering provided that neither is exaggerated in style. Avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments as well as bulky cowl neck sweaters that completely hide the neck.
  • Long sleeves are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.
  • Women being photographed in full length should wear long skirts, pants, or dark stockings in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the legs and away from the face.
  • If feet are to show in the portrait, make certain shoes and stockings are in keeping with the visual intent of the portrait.

High School Seniors
Did you know that solid colors photograph much better then stripes and plaid?  A variety of color is a good thing, so…don’t bring 3 pink outfits even if it is your favorite color.  Mix-up the style, all one look gets dull.  Vary the dress level, bring some dressy, some medium and some casual.

Gents:  Plan outfits completely.  It is hard to do a full length formal in your suit if all you brought was your sandals, besides it will make mom happy that you prepared ahead of time.

Ladies:  Make sure your clothing flatters you.  If your shoes make your feet look big, then don’t wear them.  Wild to mild.  A little sexy is OK, but don’t make ALL of your outfits that way.  Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal…like you might wear in the evening.