Tips to Pick the Best Outfit for a Photo Shoot

Choosing the perfect outfit for a photo shoot can be daunting, but applying these simple pro tips can ensure the outfit you pick will be the right choice.

Wardrobe plays a crucial role in the final result of your portrait photos. By keeping in mind the following guidelines, you will be able to pick outfits that flatter your body type and make you feel confident in front of the camera.

Understanding The Importance Of Wardrobe

As a portrait photographer, I know that wardrobe is crucial in creating stunning images. The right clothing can affect the overall look and feel of a portrait, creating different moods and enhancing the subject's features. I work with all of my clients on fashion direction to make sure you end up with the best portrait photography possible. Let’s explore some simple pro tips I share with my clients that can help you select the perfect outfit for your next photo shoot.

Coordinate Colors

When multiple people are coming together for a group photo, coordinating colors will create a cohesive and visually pleasing image. Choose colors that complement each other and avoid clashing hues. For group photos (especially large groups) I recommend sticking with solid colors and avoiding stripes, plaid, large print or bold patterns. Having multiple people in various print patterns in a photo feels chaotic and distracting to the eye. This is by far the most important piece of advice I can offer my clients as we plan a group or family photo session!

Consider working with a select color pallet that limits the number of tones everyone will be wearing in the photos. Color classics that always work well and most have in their closet already are white, beige, gray or black. Blue is wonderful too, but narrow down your hue if this is a group photo. Dusty rose is also great and is complimentary with light blues. Warm yellows and gold are inviting to the eye, as are the many shades of green. I would not recommend overdoing greens for an outside photo shoot, as you want to be sure to stand out from the scenery if the background will be heavy with green tones.

If you are going for a ‘natural’ look, pick soft, earthy organic colors you’d find in nature. These types of tones will blend harmoniously into a natural background. Strong neon or bright colors give a different look and feel in photos, and I would only recommend those tones if a bright, bold pop is the look you’re going for.

For solo portraits, consider the background and choose colors that will stand out against it. While I generally recommend avoiding print patterns, they can work in solo portraits, or even with couples so long as both outfits are carefully coordinated and follow the overall guidelines in this post. If you select a print pattern for a group photo, try to limit it to only 1 person, as that will not clash those wearing solid tones.

Choose the Right Fabric

Fabric texture can add depth and interest to an image. Choose fabrics that drape well on the body, such as silk or chiffon, to create a soft and elegant look. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, that feeling will shine through in the final photos.

If you're taking photos on a sunny day, it's important to choose lightweight fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. Avoid heavy fabrics like wool or velvet, which can be uncomfortable and make you sweat. But hey, if you have an awesome velvet jacket, don’t let me stop you from wearing it! Just so long as you won’t be uncomfortable in it.

Ensure Proper Fit

Ill-fitting clothing can be distracting and take away from the subject's features. Make sure clothes fit properly without being too tight or too loose. Consider clothing that flatters your body shape. If you’re not totally comfortable with your body image, go for flowy fabrics or an outfit you know you feel good in. Feeling comfortable and good in what your wearing is one of the primary keys to making a great photo.

Add Layers & Accessories

Layers and accessories can add depth and interest to an image. Consider adding a jacket, scarf or hat to create a more dynamic look. Accessories such as a signature piece of jewelry or cool glasses can also enhance the subject's features. But don’t overdue it with accessories. A little can go a long way and usually less is more. Bring a selection of options to the photo session so you can change up the look and feel of your outfit during the shoot.

Complement Your Features

Pay attention to colors that complement your skin tone, eyes, hair color, or body shape. This will enhance your appearance and make you look your best in your portrait photos.

Don’t Have the Right Outfit?

Rent a Dress

Dress rentals can be an excellent choice for a photo shoot, especially if you’re going for a bold, fashion forward look. If you don’t have it in the budget to add your dream outfit to your permanent wardrobe, renting a signature statement piece is the way to go. Even if you only have it for a day, your fabulous dress selection will live on forever in the photographs.

Here are a few places I’ve recommended to my clients who want an elegant gown that won’t break the bank. The pieces these vendors carry are sure to make a bold and beautiful statement in images you will cherish forever:

Flutter Dress Shop: https://flutterdressrentals.com
Traveling Gowns: https://www.travelinggowns.com
Dalliance Bespoke: https://dalliancebespoke.com/collections/all
Rent The Runway: https://www.renttherunway.com
Raw & Golden: https://rawgoldenrentals.com/

The Perfect Outfit

Choosing the right outfit is crucial for creating stunning visuals in a portrait photo. Your clothing should complement your personality and highlight your best features while fitting well.

For multiple photos with different subjects, coordinating outfits beforehand ensures a cohesive look throughout all the pictures. This avoids clashing colors and styles that could detract from each person's individual beauty and the final image.

Great blue, dusty rose and tan color theme! But ideally try to stay away from plaid & stripes in a large group photo.

Remember: creating beautiful images requires more than just pose and lighting - it takes careful consideration of every element involved to achieve perfection!

As a professional portrait photographer, I know firsthand that the right outfit can make all the difference in a photo shoot. By following these tips, you can ensure that your photos will highlight your best features and showcase your unique personality. Don't settle for anything less than perfection - trust portrait photographer Mary Redente to guide your way and capture your beauty in every shot.