The ‘90s was a decade of nostalgia that many people fondly remember. Whether you’re a fan of distinctive fashion trends, iconic television shows, or unforgettable music videos – the decade certainly had its fair share of memorable culture.
As we reflect back on its beauty and creativity, there is no better way to pay homage to this era than by arranging an awesome photoshoot inspired by the 90s! We have come up with lots of fun ideas for you to create your own unique shots that capture all the quirks and kitsch vibes popular in past decades.
For example, you can dress up in the most stylish ‘90s outfits, complete with bright neon colors and funky accessories. Channel your inner Spice Girl or Backstreet Boy as you pose for a group shot on the street corner. Or go solo in front of a classic brick wall and rock oversized glasses, chunky sneakers, and your favorite band T-shirt.
The possibilities are endless! Other fun ideas include setting up a scene that looks like it was taken straight out of an episode of Friends or Saved By The Bell. Pose in front of iconic locations like Central Perk or the Max diner while wearing signature pieces from the show’s wardrobe (but don’t forget to make sure everyone is wearing their masks) [1].
In this blog post, we dive into some creative ways for you to style your photoshoots for maximum Gen-X nostalgia. Grab your camera, crank up some Nirvana, and get ready for a trip down memory lane – it’s time to find out how you can take throwback photos worthy enough for any ’90s kid!
Prepare The Props For Your 90s Photoshoot
Show The Popularity Of Sports Style Clothes In The 90s
The 1990s were a time when sporting style and classic streetwear were all the rage. Whether it was snapback caps, tracksuits, or oversized athletic wear, you can bring a 90s sports-inspired look to your photoshoot with a few simple props. Look for vintage items or recreate the look with modern pieces that are similar in style. You could even have fun with it by combining different looks from popular teams and eras from the decade.
Celebrate The Bright Colors Of The 90s
In the 90s fashion was about having fun and expressing yourself through color – think block stripes or bold prints. Put together an array of bright garments that took over fashion trends during this period and get creative with how you style them.
Play Around With Technology Of The 90s
The ’90s was the era of technology that we no longer use today. Take advantage of this by incorporating some of the technology in your photoshoot – think Gameboys, VHS players, old phones or computer parts, etc. You can even go so far as to set up a scene in front of an old TV, playing your favorite 90s movie!
Trendy Clothes In The 90s
In the 90s, trends such as baggy jeans, crop tops, and chunky boots were all the rage. Think about how you can bring these looks into your photoshoot. You could also add a nostalgic feel by including classic items of clothing like denim jackets or old-school trainers. Have fun with it and see what kind of unique style you can come up with [2]!
Add Accessories Of That Time
Accessories were a huge part of 90s fashion – think chokers, large hoop earrings, and plastic hair clips. Make sure to add these pieces to your photoshoot. You could also include other items that were popular at the time such as glow sticks or friendship bracelets for an extra touch of nostalgia.
Use Sports Equipment
Sports were an integral part of the ’90s culture. Bring your sports-inspired photoshoot to life by including items related to popular sporting activities from that era such as skateboards, basketballs, rollerblades, and more. You could even make it a fun game by setting up a mini obstacle course with some of these items!
Lots Of Posters With The Celebrities Of The 90s On The Wall
No ’90s photoshoot would be complete without some of the decade’s most iconic celebrities. Use posters or cutouts of your favorites and hang them around your shooting space to add an extra layer of nostalgia to the overall look. You could even have fun with it by incorporating some puns or playing with scale – just make sure not to get too carried away!
Use Old Photo And Video Equipment
The ’90s was a time of revolutionary photography and video technology. Incorporate some of this into your photoshoot by using vintage cameras, camcorders, or even old film reels as props to add an extra level of authenticity to the look. Your photos will be sure to capture the spirit of the decade [3]!
Use Food Products To Recreate The 90s Atmosphere
Food products were a big part of the ’90s and can be used as props to add an extra layer of authenticity to your photoshoot. Look for vintage items such as old cereal boxes or even classic candies from the decade. You could also set up a scene with some of your favorite snacks from the time, such as Dunkaroos or Fruit by the Foot!
Clothes And Accessories To Create A 90s Photoshoot On A Budget
The 90s were a time of grunge, flannel, and denim-on-denim. A decade saw the rise of many iconic fashion trends and accessories that are still popular today. If you’re looking to create a 90s-inspired photoshoot on a budget, we’ve got you covered with some must-have clothes and accessories.
The Denim-On-Denim
Denim-on-denim is a classic 90s look that can be easily recreated with a pair of denim jeans and a denim jacket. This look was popularized by celebrities like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, who famously wore matching denim outfits to the 2001 American Music Awards.
Colorful Streetwear
The 90s were all about bright colors and flashy streetwear, so why not use some of these elements for your photoshoot? Let your models dress up in vibrant windbreakers, tracksuits, and other pieces from the era. Accessorize with colorful caps, scrunchies, hoop earrings, and other items from the decade, and have them pose in a variety of funky ways to capture all the fun vibes!
The Cap
No 90s outfit was complete without a cap. Baseball caps were particularly popular during this decade, and they could be worn with just about anything. Whether you’re wearing a casual outfit or a more formal one, a cap can add a touch of 90s style. Look for affordable options at your local sporting goods store or online retailers.
The Phone Case
If you want to take your 90s photoshoot to the next level, consider getting a phone case that’s inspired by the decade. This could be anything from a brightly colored case with a retro pattern to a case that features your favorite 90s cartoon character. You can find affordable phone cases on websites like Etsy or Amazon.
The Backpack
Backpacks were a popular accessory in the 90s, and they’re still a great way to add some 90s style to your outfit. Look for backpacks that feature bright colors or bold patterns, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors and prints. You can find affordable backpacks at most department stores or online retailers.
Anything Corduroy
Corduroy was a popular fabric in the 90s, and it can add a touch of vintage style to any outfit. Look for corduroy jackets, pants, and skirts at thrift stores or online marketplaces. Pair a corduroy jacket with a pair of jeans for a classic 90s look, or mix and match different corduroy pieces to create a unique outfit.
The Jeans And The Flannel
Jeans and flannel shirts were a staple of 90s fashion. To create this classic look on a budget, head to your local thrift store and look for affordable pairs of jeans and flannel shirts. You can mix and match different colors and patterns to create a unique outfit.
The Sneakers
Sneakers were a must-have accessory in the 90s, and they’re still popular today. Look for affordable options at your local shoe store or online retailers. Classic 90s sneaker brands like Nike and Adidas are still popular today and can add some vintage style to your outfit.
The Scrunchies
Scrunchies were a popular hair accessory in the 90s, and they’re making a comeback today. You can find affordable scrunchies in a variety of colors and patterns at most department stores or online retailers. Pair a scrunchie with a messy bun or a high ponytail to complete your 90s-inspired look.
The Hair Crimper
If you really want to take your 90s photoshoot to the next level, consider investing in a hair crimper. Crimped hair was a popular trend in the 90s, and it can add some texture and volume to your hair. You can find affordable hair crimpers at most beauty supply stores or online retailers [5].
90s Photoshoot Ideas For Atmospheric Photos
Focus On Smoking
The smoking trend of the 90s was all about looking cool, and you can use this in your photoshoot. Use creative lighting to make sure the smoke is prominent and stands out. The focus should be on the flowing lines and patterns that can be created with smoke.
Find The Right 90s Style Buildings
90s-style buildings were characterized by tones of muted brown, copper, and green. Look for buildings that feature these colors as this will give your photoshoot a more authentic 90s vibe. Remember to capture the essence of the building in your photos; take shots from different angles and experiment with lighting to create interesting shadows on the walls.
Include Plenty Of Accessories
Accessories can really add a lot to your photos! Think about items that were popular during the 90s such as bright-colored sneakers, berets, snapback baseball caps, and oversized sunglasses. Include as many accessories as you can in each photo to really bring out that classic 90s style [6].
Choose Relaxed Poses
90s fashion was all about being carefree and relaxed, so make sure your poses reflect that. Try to capture a candid look by avoiding stiff poses; instead, let your models express themselves more naturally. This will create an interesting story for each photo and add even more atmosphere to the shoot.
Include Street Art
Street art has always been an important part of 90s culture, so adding it to your photoshoot can be a great way to set the mood. Look for walls or buildings with graffiti or murals and use them as the backdrop for some of your photos! You can also have your models pose in front of these pieces to create an edgy portrait shot.
Add Neon Lights For Brightness
Neon lights were a huge trend in the 90s, and they’re making a comeback! If you want to add some retro flair to your photoshoot, consider incorporating neon into your setup. Whether you choose to set up neon signs or use strips of light around the scene, this will add brightness and fun color to your pictures. Just make sure that you don’t overdo it; too much lighting can be blinding for photos. With just a few strategically placed neon lights, though, you’ll have an Instagram-worthy photo that transports viewers back in time!
Office Space Throwback
Take a page from the classic 90s movie Office Space and recreate some of its most iconic scenes.
For example, you can stage a scene where your models are taking part in a cubicle-confined brainstorming session or another one where they’re marching in front of their office building with protest signs.
If you want to add an extra element of nostalgia, have them sport chunky glasses and/or oversized blazers! This shoot is sure to bring back memories while making for great content also.
Go Grunge
Another classic 90s theme to consider is grunge fashion. Grunge was all about wearing flannel shirts, ripped jeans, Doc Martens, and other items that weren’t so popular at the time. The style was often associated with anti-establishment sentiments and had a very rebellious flair to it. Have your models express this attitude in their poses and facial expressions, while also showcasing the clothing items that helped define grunge fashion.
Ball Pit Throwback
Gather a bunch of colorful plastic balls, and find some models ready to jump in. Have them pose in different positions while they play around in the pile of balls, or create more organized poses along the edges of the pit. The result will be an eye-catching photo that brings back all the nostalgia from your childhood! You can also incorporate props such as balloons, beach balls, and pool noodles for extra texture and bright colors. Add some fun accessories like headbands or sunglasses for an extra bit of flair to make this shoot truly memorable.
Scream If You Loved ’90s Horror Movies
If you’re looking to add a bit of spookiness to your photoshoot, why not recreate some iconic horror movie scenes from the 90s? Ask your models to dress up like their favorite characters and strike classic poses, such as the hero running away in terror. Have them scream for the camera or create other suspenseful expressions.
You can also add props such as fake weapons or masks for extra drama. If you prefer something more subtle, try out some vintage fashions that were popularized by thriller movies from this decade – leather jackets, plaid skirts, and combat boots all make great choices.
Your Hogwarts Acceptance Letter Has Arrived
The Hogwarts letter is one of the most iconic images from the Harry Potter series. And what could be more magical than receiving your very own acceptance letter?
With a little bit of creativity, you can easily recreate this scene at home. All you need is an envelope, some parchment paper, and a quill. You can even add a Hogwarts seal to really make it look authentic!
Once you have all of your materials, simply write out a letter addressed to your child (or anyone else who would love to receive their own Hogwarts acceptance letter!). Be sure to mention all of the amazing things that await them at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry [7].
For an added touch of magic, why not include some props? A wand would be perfect for this scene, as well as a Hogwarts scarf or hat. You could even add a cauldron with mysterious ingredients brewing inside to really give your photoshoot an extra dose of excitement.
FAQ
What was the photography trend in the 90s?
The 90s were a time of experimentation and innovation in photography. One of the biggest trends was the rise of alternative and experimental photography, with many artists and photographers exploring new techniques and styles. The use of film cameras and darkroom printing techniques remained popular, but digital photography was also becoming more accessible and widely used. Fashion photography in the 90s also saw a shift towards more edgy, unconventional styles, with the rise of grunge and other subcultures influencing the industry [8].
Which outfit is best for the 90s photoshoot?
The 90s were a time of eclectic fashion, with a variety of styles and trends coexisting simultaneously. To capture the essence of the era, you might consider wearing some of the following: baggy or oversized clothing, denim jackets and vests, flannel shirts, combat boots, platform sneakers, high-waisted jeans, overalls, crop tops, and scrunchies. Accessorizing with chokers, chunky jewelry, and brightly colored sunglasses can also help to complete the look.
What aesthetic was the 90s?
The 90s aesthetic was characterized by a mix of various styles and subcultures. Grunge, hip-hop, rave culture, and punk all had a significant influence on the look and feel of the era. The aesthetic was often characterized by a DIY ethos, with individuals creating their own clothing, accessories, and hairstyles. Bold colors, playful patterns, and graphic design elements were also common.
What is the 90s photo effect called?
One of the most iconic photo effects from the 90s is the “fisheye” effect, which creates a circular distortion around the edges of the image. This effect is created by using a fisheye lens, which has an extremely wide angle of view and a curved glass element that causes the distortion.
What was the biggest trend in the 90s?
The 90s saw a variety of trends come and go, but some of the biggest include grunge fashion, hip-hop culture, and the rise of digital technology. In terms of music, the 90s saw the emergence of alternative rock, pop-punk, and hip-hop as major cultural forces.
How do you do 90s hair?
90s hairstyles were often characterized by bold and unconventional cuts and colors. Some popular styles include the “Rachel” haircut (a layered, shaggy style made famous by Jennifer Aniston on Friends), choppy pixie cuts, “spiked” hairstyles (often achieved with gel or mousse), and brightly colored hair (in shades like neon green or pink). Hair accessories like butterfly clips, scrunchies, and bandanas were also commonly used to add flair to hairstyles.
How do I make my photos look retro?
To make your photos look retro, you might try adding some vintage filters or effects to create a nostalgic, old-fashioned feel. Some popular techniques include adding a film grain effect, adjusting the color balance to create a sepia or black-and-white tone, and using a vignette effect to create a darker edge around the image. Adding text or graphic design elements can also help to complete the retro look.
What color attracts the human eye most?
Research suggests that bright, saturated colors like red, yellow, and green tend to attract the human eye the most. This is due in part to the way these colors contrast with the surrounding environment, making them stand out more prominently.
What color grabs the most attention?
While different colors may attract attention for different reasons, research suggests that bright, bold colors like red and yellow tend to be the most attention-grabbing. These colors have high levels of chromaticity, which makes them appear more vivid and noticeable than more muted or neutral colors.
What is the 300 rule in photography?
The 300 rule is a guideline for photographers who want to capture sharp, detailed images of moving subjects. The rule suggests that you should choose a shutter speed that is at least equal to the reciprocal of the focal length of your lens multiplied by 300.
For example, if you are using a 50mm lens, your shutter speed should be at least 1/150s (50 x 300 = 15,000; 1/150 = 0.0067) [9]. This rule helps to ensure that your images are free from motion blur and that your subject is in focus, even when it is moving quickly.
Useful Video: 90s PHOTOSHOOT : Create your own backdrop ! + RESULTS
References
- https://fixthephoto.com/90s-photoshoot-ideas.html
- https://www.peerspace.com/resources/throwback-90s-photoshoot-ideas/
- https://photographers-diary.com/heres-how-to-create-a-90s-photoshoot-with-a-budget/
- https://www.texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/latino-glamour-shots-trend/
- https://instasize.com/learn/how-to-make-photos-look-vintage-or-retro
- https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-from-the-90s
- https://www.redbookmag.com/life/charity/g31088041/memorable-90s-events/
- https://www.onyxcreative.com/blog/2020/9/popular-color-palettes-by-decade
- https://bradycabe.com/blog/2017/2/the-500-and-300-rule-for-photographing-the-night-sky