Portrait Photos Outfit Guide

Alright, it is almost photo time! We have discussed important information like the date for your session, locations, and the overall vision for what you are looking for in your photography experience! Your next thoughts are probably along the lines of, “I am so excited for the session, but I have no idea what I am going to wear!” That is 100% normal to feel that way, but I am going to help provide you with some simple tips and information that will allow you to feel your absolute best in front of the camera in outfits that you feel comfortable in!

I know that your portrait session is extremely important to you, and it is my goal to aim and make your session seamless as possible! To help with that, I have created a quick reference guide about general clothing tips, colors, and accessories! All of these tips are applicable for high school senior portraits, headshots, creative portraits, and fashion photography!

1. Solid Colors Are Always Better

When it comes to any portrait session, it is important that the main attention and focus of the image is on YOU! Wearing solid colors is a great way to make sure that the space between the clothing and the background blends together well and is not too contrasting.

2. Avoid Large Patterns, Graphics, and Illustrations

All of these are pretty self explanatory, large distracting symbols or logos can immediately draw the attention of the eye. By avoiding large logos, it is also a great way to make sure that when you look back on the photo in 20 years that the trend is not out of style as well!

3. Love What You Already Have

There is no reason that you have to feel like you need to go on a shopping spree before your session to get all brand new clothing items! It is great if you can pick those pieces from your closet that you already have, love, and are comfortable in as well. This will also be a good representation of how you would usually dress on a day to day basis as you want your photos to reflect who you truly are as a person and your unique sense of style!

4. Incorporate Your Favorite Patterns

Whether you re a fan of florals, strips, or polka dots you can include it! just make sure to keep in mind to not choose prints that are too overwhelming!

5. Throw In Accessories to Switch it Up!

This could include your favorite jewelry pieces, hat, belt, and etc!

YOUR OUTFIT SHOULD COMPLIMENT THE LOCATION

FOR MOST PORTRAIT SESSIONS, THERE WILL BE MULTIPLE OUTFIT CHANGES AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS, THEREFORE IT IS SUPER IMPORTANT TO PLAN AHEAD WHAT YOU WILL WEAR FOR EACH SPECIFIC ONE. IF YOU ARE UNSURE WHAT COLORS AND TONES TEND TO GO BETTER WITH GENERAL LOCATIONS SETTINGS, READ DOWN BELOW!

COLOR TONES AND LOCATIONS THAT COMPLIMENT EACH OTHER

DOWNTOWN/URBAN SETTINGS

Do’s:

  • Neutrals
  • Light and Dark Tones (black, grey, and tan)
  • Various Prints

Keep In Mind: 

  • If you are wanting photos in front of red/orange brick, try to avoid those colors as you will blend in

GREENERY- NATURE INSPIRED

Do’s:

  • White and very light and bright colors like baby pink and purple
  • Earth tones (burnt oranges, maroons, yellows, light & dark blue)
  • Black and brown tones

Keep In Mind:

  • Green shades will cause you to blend in with the background
  • Bright red with green in the background can look very Christmas colored, try darker shades such as maroon

GOLDEN HOUR- FIELD

Do’s:

  • White and neutrals
  • Prints and various textures such as lace or floral
  • The color red can really make you pop in a yellow field!
  • Dark shades and green and blue tones (Earth tones)

Keep In Mind:

  • Yellow tones will blend in

PLANNING OUTFITS FOR YOUR PORTRAIT SESSION IS SUCH AN EXCITING EXPERIENCE AS THERE IS SO MANY DIFFERENT OPTIONS TO CAPTURE AND REFLECT YOUR PERSONALITY!

For additional questions regarding outfits and planning see “Contact Me” page in order to learn how to get in touch with Asantae.

Happy planning and I cannot wait to be a part of your portrait experience!!!